The IAFC Volunteer & Combination Officers Section (VCOS) is dedicated to developing and supporting the leaders who serve volunteer and combination fire and emergency service organizations.
VCOS provides chief officers and emerging leaders with the education, resources, professional connections, and representation they need to lead effectively, strengthen their organizations, and prepare the volunteer and combination fire service for the future.
Mission
The mission of VCOS is to develop and enhance effective, professional leaders of the volunteer and combination fire service by providing tools, resources, and representation to lead their organizations effectively.
Vision
Developing Leaders. Strengthening Departments.
VCOS is built around a simple philosophy: “If you don’t know it, learn it; if you know it, teach it.”
Through education, collaboration, networking, publications, and member engagement, the Section helps leaders strengthen their skills and apply practical solutions within their own organizations. VCOS also creates opportunities for experienced leaders to share their knowledge and mentor others, helping develop the next generation of volunteer and combination fire service leadership.
Our Core Values
VCOS members and leaders are guided by six core values:
- Commitment – Remaining dedicated to the membership, organization, profession, and mission.
- Accountability – Taking ownership and holding ourselves and others to high standards.
- Professionalism – Leading with ethics, respect, competence, skill, and humility.
- Integrity – Doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.
- Teamwork – Working together toward common goals.
- Innovation – Seeking new ideas and better ways to serve our organizations and communities.
These values support a culture of respect, collaboration, continuous learning, ethical leadership, and professional excellence.
Awards
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.
Training Officer Award
The Training Officer Recognition Award honors fire service leaders who demonstrate excellence in training, education, and professional development.
Retention & Recruitment Award
The Retention and Recruitment Award recognizes success and excellence in the retention and recruitment of emergency service organization members.
About VCOS
Founded in 1994, VCOS has grown into a strong voice for volunteer and combination fire service leaders within the IAFC. The Section’s international director serves on the IAFC Board of Directors, helping ensure the needs and perspectives of volunteer and combination departments are represented at the association’s highest level.
VCOS Partners
