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The Training Officer Recognition Award, presented by the IAFC’s Volunteer & Combination Officers Section (VCOS) in partnership with Vector Solutions, recognizes fire service professionals who demonstrate exceptional commitment to training, education, and professional development.

Open to fire chiefs, training officers, and other fire service education leaders, the award honors individuals who go above and beyond to strengthen the knowledge and skills of their department members, improve organizational performance, and enhance service to their communities.

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Award Recognition

The recipient receives:

The award recipient is selected based on overall qualifications and demonstrated dedication to advancing fire service training and professional development.

 

 

2025

Paul J. Wilson, Deputy Fire Chief , Shelton Fire Department (CT)

2024

Robert Barron, Division Chief, Flower Mound Fire Department (TX)

2023

Shane Metcalfe, Captain, Irondequoit Fire District (NY)

2022

John V. White, Fire Training Coordinator, Apex Fire Department (NC)

2021

James Hedrick, Volunteer Training Coordinator, Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department (VA)

2020

Karl Neubecker, Deputy Chief of Training, Ellington Fire Department (CT)

2019

Lee Whitner, Division Chief, South Adams County Fire Department (CO)

2018

Chip Everett, Captain, Oshtemo Fire and Rescue (MI)

2017

Bradley Pinsky, Assistant Chief, Manlius Fire Department (NY)

2016

Steve Malone, Manhattan Fire Protection District (IL)

2015

Michael Accardo III, Training Chief, St. Tammany Fire District 9 (LA)

2014

Joshua Blum, Deputy Chief, Loveland-Symmes Fire Department (OH)

2011

Sheri R. Bemis, CFO, Chief, Oxford Fire-EMS (MA)

Related Awards

The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) gives out general, section, and committee awards to honor leadership, bravery, and service in the emergency services.

  • VCOS Chair Award

    The VCOS Chair Award recognizes an individual or organization whose hard work and dedication has helped to further the mission of the VCOS and the IAFC.

  • John M. Buckman III Leadership Award

    The John M. Buckman III Leadership Award honors volunteer and combination fire chiefs for exceptional leadership, integrity, and professionalism.

  • William F. Jenaway Illness & Injury Prevention Award

    The William F. Jenaway Award recognizes fire departments for successful firefighter illness, injury prevention, wellness, or vehicle safety programs.