How IAFC’s executive development initiative is changing careers for aspiring fire chiefs
Iain Hoey
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Grant supports executive development for fire chiefs
The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) has reported that it will receive a grant for the fourteenth year from the Motorola Solutions Foundation to fund the Fire Service Executive Development Institute (FSEDI).
The programme offers training and support for new and aspiring chiefs across the United States and Canada.
According to the IAFC, applications for the 2025 cohort must be submitted by 5 PM Eastern Time on 3 November 2025.
The IAFC said the year-long programme provides leadership development through structured sessions and ongoing peer support.
Chief Trisha Wolford, President and Board Chair of the IAFC, said: “As FSEDI enters its fourteenth year, it remains one of the most impactful leadership development experiences in the fire service—transforming chiefs not only professionally, but personally.
“Thanks to the ongoing support of the Motorola Solutions Foundation, FSEDI is more than a program, it’s a community, a family, and a lasting legacy of leadership.
“I am a proud graduate of Cohort 5, and I can say without hesitation that the chiefs I met through this program have become some of my closest confidants and dearest friends.
“If you ask any FSEDI graduate, they’ll tell you the same—the bonds built here last a lifetime.”
Motorola Solutions Foundation support
The IAFC reported that the Motorola Solutions Foundation has donated more than $100 million over the past decade.
It explained that the foundation directs its funding to first responder initiatives, technology and engineering education, and projects that connect the two areas.
The IAFC added that the foundation prioritises support for under-resourced populations and works with organisations that reflect its values of accountability, innovation, impact and inclusion.
Wesley Barden Touhy, Executive Director of the Motorola Solutions Foundation, said: “We are inspired by the impactful work of the IAFC within their community.
“The Motorola Solutions Foundation is proud to champion their efforts as they continue to grow and make a positive difference.”
Leadership outcomes from previous cohorts
According to the IAFC, graduates of the past thirteen cohorts have achieved senior roles including promotions to fire chief and leadership positions within state, regional, and national committees.
It noted that about one-third of the previous class advanced to higher executive roles.
The IAFC highlighted that at the Fire-Rescue International Conference in Orlando, Chief Trisha Wolford, a 2017 participant, was sworn in as President of the IAFC.
It added that Chief John Butler, another graduate, was appointed President of the Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Section of the IAFC.
Programme structure and curriculum
The IAFC explained that the FSEDI programme lasts one year and is designed for chiefs committed to leadership growth and advancing fire and emergency services.
Participants attend three in-person sessions at a Maryland conference centre near Baltimore-Washington Airport.
The organisation reported that training includes topics such as ethics, organisational design, use of data, financial management, labour relations, and diversity and inclusion.
It added that instructors include specialists from fire and emergency services as well as the private sector.
Networking and professional development opportunities
The IAFC said members of the 2026 cohort will complete assignments between sessions and maintain communication through an online platform.
It noted that participants will take part in mentoring, coaching, and networking with alumni from earlier cohorts.
A recent graduate commented: “There is hardly a day that goes by where I don’t draw from either the experience or cohorts to help my decision‐making process.
“This program is impacting the fire service for future generations.”
Eligibility and application process
The IAFC confirmed that the programme is open to 20–24 participants representing different regions of the US and Canada, from departments of varying sizes and structures.
It explained that chief officers accepted into the programme may receive scholarships to cover accommodation, meals, and activities for the in-person sessions when department funding is unavailable.
The IAFC clarified that costs for travel to the training site and attendance at Fire-Rescue International 2026 in Kansas City are not included in the scholarship.
It stated that successful applicants are required to attend the 2026 Fire-Rescue International event.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
The IAFC has stated that the FSEDI supports leadership development for current and emerging fire service executives.
For fire and safety professionals, the programme provides structured training on leadership, ethics, budgeting, and diversity in the fire service.
It also creates a network of alumni who share experiences and guidance across US and Canadian departments.
The initiative demonstrates how grant-funded executive development supports workforce advancement and organisational resilience in the fire service.
IAFC opens 2025 executive development applications in US and Canada: Summary
The International Association of Fire Chiefs has received funding from the Motorola Solutions Foundation to support the 2025 Fire Service Executive Development Institute.
Applications are open until 5 PM Eastern Time on 3 November 2025.
The programme is designed for aspiring and current fire chiefs from the United States and Canada.
Participants attend three in-person training sessions in Maryland.
The curriculum includes leadership, ethics, organisational design, use of data, finance, and diversity.
Graduates have advanced into fire chief roles and national leadership positions.
The programme is limited to 20–24 participants.
Scholarships cover housing, meals, and activities for the on-site sessions.
Travel and attendance at Fire-Rescue International 2026 in Kansas City are not included.
Alumni form a network that supports professional development across the fire service.