The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) and W.S. Darley & Co. have revealed the winners of the 2024 Thought Leadership Essay Competition.
The contest encouraged participants from across the fire service to propose strategies for overcoming resistance to change.
The competition received 85 submissions nationwide, all addressing the theme, “Overcoming Resistance to Change in the Fire Service.”
Jamie Howarth, a Battalion Chief from the Anne Arundel County Fire Department, secured first place with an essay emphasizing inclusivity and organizational buy-in.
Other winners included Chris Paskett, Battalion Chief of Eugene Springfield Fire Department, and retired Fire Chief Chris Truty from Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District.
The winners of the competition were awarded monetary prizes, with Jamie Howarth invited to present her essay at the Texas A&M Leadership Conference in January 2024.
This platform allowed participants to share ideas that encourage adaptability and progressive leadership within the fire service.
Paul Darley, CEO of W.S. Darley & Co., noted the competition’s role in advancing fire service innovation: “We’re proud to collaborate with NFFF and contribute to this writing platform that inspires innovation and empowers leaders to shape the future fire service.”
The essay competition is part of an ongoing partnership between the NFFF and W.S. Darley & Co.
The NFFF, established by Congress in 1992, honors fallen firefighters and supports their families, while also focusing on initiatives to reduce firefighter injuries and fatalities.
Victor Stagnaro, CEO of NFFF, highlighted the collaboration: “The essays demonstrate the high caliber of firefighters serving our communities who stand ready to drive progress and put great ideas into action.”
With the success of the 2024 competition, the NFFF and Darley are inviting fire service members to participate in next year’s contest.
The platform aims to continue fostering leadership and sparking meaningful change in the fire service industry.
Details about the 2025 competition will be announced soon, and winning essays are available on the Darley website.
The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) and W.S. Darley & Co. have announced the winners of the 2024 Thought Leadership Essay Competition.
Jamie Howarth of Anne Arundel County Fire Department secured first place with her essay on inclusivity and organizational buy-in.
Other winners included Chris Paskett and Chris Truty.
Participants proposed solutions to overcome resistance to change in the fire service.
Winners received monetary prizes, and Howarth will present her essay at the Texas A&M Leadership Conference.
The competition reflects a partnership between NFFF and Darley aimed at fostering innovation and leadership within the fire service.
Details for the 2025 competition will be announced soon.
