Fire Chief of the Year 2025 winners announced by IAFC in US
Iain Hoey
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US fire chiefs receive IAFC fire chief of the year awards for 2025
The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) has named Volunteer Fire Chief Daniel Krushinski of East Franklin Fire Department in New Jersey and Career Fire Chief Jeremy Craft of Lehi Fire Department in Utah as the 2025 fire chief of the year recipients.
The IAFC said the programme recognises one volunteer and one career chief each year.
The awards were presented at Fire Rescue International in Orlando, Florida.
Nominations were assessed on leadership, innovation, professional development, integrity, public service and contributions to the fire service.
The association noted that the awards have been presented annually since 1996.
Volunteer fire chief honouree: Daniel Krushinski, New Jersey
According to the IAFC, Chief Daniel Krushinski has led the East Franklin Fire Department for more than two decades.
It said he is the top responding volunteer firefighter in a department that answers about 750 calls annually.
The association reported that he established a Water Rescue Team and secured rescue boats after lessons from Hurricane Ida.
It added that he promotes advanced certifications and in house training for members to ensure operational readiness.
His Duty Crew Program has drawn national attention as a model for volunteer recruitment and retention.
Career fire chief honouree: Jeremy Craft, Utah
The IAFC stated that Chief Jeremy Craft has focused on firefighter health and safety throughout his career.
It reported that he supported legislation in Utah for presumptive cancer coverage, early screening protocols and accountability measures.
According to the association, he built coalitions, briefed lawmakers and worked with fire service leaders to secure these reforms.
It said he shares best practices nationally and provides testimony at legislative hearings.
The IAFC added that his work is influencing health and wellness initiatives across the United States.
Award criteria and selection process
The IAFC explained that nominations are reviewed by a committee assessing defined leadership and service criteria.
It said the process examines operational leadership, innovation and professional development.
Integrity, public service and wider contributions to the fire service are also considered.
The association confirmed that one volunteer and one career chief are selected each year.
Recipients are formally announced during Fire Rescue International.
Presentation at Fire Rescue International in Florida
The IAFC said the 2025 awards were presented at Fire Rescue International in Orlando.
It noted that the event brings together fire and emergency service leaders from the United States and internationally.
The association stated that the awards segment is part of the conference’s annual programme.
It added that recognition at the event highlights the contributions of the recipients and their departments.
Details of the winners were shared during the conference.
IAFC and Pierce Manufacturing partnership and statement
The IAFC works in partnership with Pierce Manufacturing on the awards programme.
Bob Schulz, president of Pierce Manufacturing, said: “We are honored to recognize two extraordinary leaders whose passion for the fire service and dedication to their communities set the standard for us all
“Chief Krushinski and Chief Craft embody integrity, innovation, and a commitment to serving others
“Pierce Manufacturing is privileged to join the IAFC in celebrating their remarkable achievements.”
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
The fire chief of the year awards highlight leadership strategies and operational initiatives that can inform best practice.
The IAFC’s examples of training, community outreach and recruitment models provide transferable approaches for other departments.
Chief Craft’s legislative work on firefighter cancer prevention shows how departments can collaborate with policymakers on occupational health issues.
Fire chief of the year 2025 winners announced by IAFC in US: Summary
The International Association of Fire Chiefs named Volunteer Fire Chief Daniel Krushinski and Career Fire Chief Jeremy Craft as the 2025 fire chief of the year recipients.
The IAFC said the awards recognise one volunteer and one career chief annually.
It added that the 2025 awards were presented at Fire Rescue International in Orlando, Florida.
Nominations were evaluated on leadership, innovation, professional development, integrity, public service and contributions to the fire service.
Chief Krushinski established a Water Rescue Team and obtained rescue boats after Hurricane Ida.
He also implemented advanced training and a Duty Crew Program recognised nationally.
Chief Craft advanced firefighter health and safety legislation in Utah.
He built coalitions, briefed lawmakers and promoted best practices nationally.
The IAFC partners with Pierce Manufacturing on the awards programme and issued a statement from its president.