The Department of Fire Services (DFS) – in conjunction with the Edward J. Collins, Jr. Center for Public Management at the University of Massachusetts Boston– will be conducting a 13-week Chief Fire Officer Management Training program from September 4 through December 4. This training is designed to provide new chief fire officers with a variety of leadership and managerial skills essential in Massachusetts municipal management.

The program is based on criteria in the National Fire Protection Association 1021 Standard for Fire Officer Professional Qualifications. Training topics to be covered include:

• supervision and management;
• fire prevention and life safety;
• emergency services delivery (RTF file);
• community and government relations;
• basic communication skills; and,
• human resources management.

The goal of the program is to have participants successfully complete an applied research paper on a topic relevant to the student’s duties and responsibilities as a senior fire official. Students will also be required to present and defend their paper in an oral presentation.

In this priority-selection program, Massachusetts Fire Academy coordinators will decide acceptance based on applicants’ level of supervisory experience and the relevancy of each applicant’s current assignment within his/her organization. Those selected will be notified on or before July 11, 2014.

Each application must include:

• an organizational chart showing all department positions and indicate the applicant’s current position and responsibilities;
• a one-page statement explaining why the applicant should be accepted into the program;
• copies of all national fire service certifications;
• relevant copies of state credentials and licenses, diplomas and degrees; and,
• a professional resume.

The application deadline is Friday, May 30, 2014.Completed application packets should be postmarked by the deadline date and mailed to:

Robert Loomer, Coordinator, Chief Fire Officer Management Program

Massachusetts Firefighting Academy

P.O. Box 1025, One State Road, Stow, MA 01775

Tags: 2014, Civil service, department of fire services, dfs, fire, Fire safety, fire services, fire training, firefighter