The changing role of leadership in the fire service

The role of the modem fire service is evolving drastically and today's leaders must have the courage, tenacity, and perseverance to embrace and prepare for substantial change in an industry heavily steeped in almost two centuries of tradition that's historically resistant to new ways of doing things. Moreover, from an individual perspective, fire service professionals must personally prepare themselves to lead the emergency response industry in the years ahead. Fire service leaders will be faced with new and different challenges. The roles and responsibilities of our profession are changing and becoming more complex. Many common practices currently done in the fire service today will require innovative solutions in the future. To lead our firefighters, not only into dangerous environments, but through these changing times, the professional fire officer will need to be functionally educated, current with new tactics to combat changing conditions, and possess an understanding of leadership principles such as emotional intelligence, leadership style, and leadership theory. This foundation will help today's fire officers become tomorrow's fire service professionals.