As reported by Pierce Manufacturing, two fire chiefs have been named as the 2024 IAFC Fire Chief of the Year award recipients.
Volunteer Fire Chief C. Reid Vaughan of the Cuba Fire Department in Alabama and Career Fire Chief Randy Royal of the Colorado Springs Fire Department in Colorado were honored for their exemplary service and leadership.
These awards were presented at the Fire-Rescue International event in Dallas, Texas.
The IAFC has recognized one volunteer and one career fire chief annually since 1996.
The IAFC Fire Chief of the Year award acknowledges leaders who have made notable contributions in areas such as leadership, professional development, integrity, and public service.
The selection process involves a committee evaluating nominations.
Pierce Manufacturing President Bob Schulz said: “We are privileged to acknowledge the dedication and commitment of these exceptional fire service leaders.”
Chief C. Reid Vaughan, who has served as Volunteer Fire Chief of the Cuba Fire Department since 1994, was honored for his leadership and dedication to his community.
In addition to his role at the fire department, Chief Vaughan works as the Section Chief over Regional Services at the Alabama Fire College.
He has a background in education, holding a bachelor’s degree in history with a minor in music and a graduate degree in school administration and history.
Vaughan’s commitment to his community extends beyond firefighting.
He has served as the Minister of Music for several churches for 30 years and spent 11 years as the principal of Sumter Academy High School.
He also serves as the National Volunteer Fire Council Director for Alabama and the fire service representative to FirstNet.
Chief Vaughan has previously been recognized as the Alabama Association of Fire Chief’s Volunteer Fire Chief of the Year.
Chief Randy Royal, who joined the Colorado Springs Fire Department in 1987, was recognized for his forward-thinking leadership and dedication to his team and community.
Under his leadership, the department earned its third consecutive accreditation from the Commission on Fire Accreditation International and expanded its resources with new fire stations and personnel.
Chief Royal has spearheaded numerous initiatives, including the development of a Tiered Response EMS model and enhanced firefighter wellness programs.
He has also focused on community safety through programs such as wildfire preparedness and evacuation planning.
His leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated resilience and adaptability, leading his department through the crisis with innovative solutions.
Chief Royal has received numerous accolades throughout his nearly four-decade career, including the Colorado Division of Fire Prevention & Control’s Fire Chief of the Year and the Congressional Fire Services Institute’s Excellence in Fire Service-Based EMS Award.
Chiefs C. Reid Vaughan and Randy Royal were honored for their leadership and dedication to their respective fire departments and communities.
Both chiefs have made enduring contributions, exemplifying the core values of the fire service and continuing to mentor and lead others within their fields.
Their work and achievements highlight the critical role of fire chiefs in ensuring the safety and well-being of their communities.
The 2024 IAFC Fire Chief of the Year award celebrates the enduring commitment and vision of both honorees, marking a milestone in their distinguished careers.
Pierce Manufacturing, in partnership with the International Association of Fire Chiefs, announced the 2024 IAFC Fire Chief of the Year honorees.
Volunteer Fire Chief C. Reid Vaughan of the Cuba Fire Department in Alabama and Career Fire Chief Randy Royal of the Colorado Springs Fire Department in Colorado were recognized for their leadership, integrity, and service.
The awards were presented at the Fire-Rescue International event in Dallas, Texas.
Chief Vaughan has been dedicated to his community for decades, while Chief Royal’s leadership has resulted in numerous advancements for his department.
Both chiefs were selected by a committee based on their contributions to their departments and communities.
