The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC), in partnership with Columbia Southern University (CSU), is expanding the Officer Development Program (ODP) with two new leadership tracks designed to meet the evolving demands of today’s fire and EMS professionals.
Launching in 2026 at two significant IAFC conferences, these new tracks will provide practical, forward-focused leadership education for current and emerging officers.
The Wildfire Leadership I track is designed to equip officers with the leadership principles, operational capabilities and strategic thinking needed to effectively lead resources in today’s wildland-urban interface (WUI) environment.
The initial series of workshops will introduce; foundations of WUI leadership, emphasizing decision-making and risk management during complex wildfire incidents.
WUI operations, training and qualifications, focusing on readiness, credentialing pathways and the operational expectations of modern wildfire leaders.
Communication and collaboration across agencies, the evolving role of incident management teams, firefighter health and safety and the national direction under the cohesive wildland fire management strategy.
Strategies for building fire-adapted communities, along with the legal and legislative factors shaping WUI operations.
EMS Officer I is the foundational course of the EMS Officer Development Program track.
This structured, eight-unit workshop series prepares EMS leaders to navigate rapidly evolving challenges.
Participants will explore:
Designed to keep EMS professionals current, adaptable and prepared, EMS Officer I focuses on real-world leadership skills that translate directly to the field.
The IAFC, in partnership with Columbia Southern University (CSU), is expanding the Officer Development Program with two new leadership tracks designed to meet the evolving demands of today’s fire and EMS professionals.
