The IAFC, in partnership with Columbia Southern University (CSU), is expanding the Officer Development Program (ODP) with two exciting new leadership tracks designed to meet the evolving demands of today’s fire and EMS professionals.
Launching in 2026 at two major IAFC conferences, these new tracks will provide practical, forward-focused leadership education for current and emerging officers.
Wildfire Leadership I at the 2026 Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) Conference
The Wildfire Leadership I track is designed to equip officers with the leadership principles, operational capabilities, and strategic thinking needed to effectively lead resources in today’s complex and dynamic wildland-urban interface (WUI) environment.
The initial series of workshops will introduce:
- Foundations of WUI Leadership, emphasizing decision-making and risk management during complex wildfire incidents
- WUI Operations, Training, and Qualifications, focusing on readiness, credentialing pathways, and the operational expectations of modern wildfire leaders
- Communication and collaboration across agencies, the evolving role of Incident Management Teams, firefighter health and safety, and the national direction under the Cohesive Wildland Fire Management Strategy
- Strategies for building fire-adapted communities, along with the legal and legislative factors shaping WUI operations
EMS Officer I at Fire-Rescue Med (FRM)
EMS Officer I is the foundational course of the EMS Officer Development Program track. This structured, eight-unit workshop series prepares EMS leaders to navigate today’s rapidly evolving challenges.
Participants will explore:
- Core leadership principles
- Team and personnel management
- Operational readiness and response
- Quality improvement and performance outcomes
Designed to keep EMS professionals current, adaptable, and prepared, EMS Officer I focuses on real-world leadership skills that translate directly to the field.
Together, the Wildfire Leadership I and EMS Officer I tracks reflect the shared commitment of IAFC and CSU to developing officers who are evidence-based, responsive to national trends, and prepared for the increasing demands placed on the modern fire service.
Don’t miss this new and engaging leadership opportunity. Register for the WUI Conference and Fire-Rescue Med today!