THE IMPACT OF THE NATIONAL FIRE ACADEMY

摘要

My first exposure to the National Fire Academy (NFA) came in 1988. I was a young battalion chief recently assigned to training and was being sent to take a train-the-trainer course in firefighter safety and survival. I had no idea of what to expect. The minute I stepped onto the campus, I fell in love with the atmosphere, architecture, and academia of the NFA. Fifteen years and more than 10 visits later, I still get excited every time I step onto the campus. My department has two individuals (including myself) who have graduated from the Executive Fire Officer (EFO) program. We have a handful of younger chiefs who are currently in the EFO program. The EFO program is the best offering I know of for chief officer preparation. It not only better prepares you for the leadership role, but it also tests your abilities in other areas such as prevention, strategy and tactics, and self-evaluation. Each two-week course is presented by some of the best instructors in the fire service. I have been a student and an instructor at the academy and also have been involved in course development. I can assure you that much thought and effort go into what is presented. Nothing is taken lightly.