The Commission on Professional Credentialing (CPC) has launched the Fire Marshal (FM) designation.
The designation was created following the whole officer model the Commission developed in 2000 for the Chief Fire Officer (CFO) credential. The program is a verification and recognition of past accomplishments and a starting point for future achievements. There are minimum eligibility requirements in the form of academic achievements and practical experience.
In addition, the process assesses contributions to the fire prevention field in the way of professional articles, public speaking, teaching and research, as well as professional memberships, community and civic involvement and technical competence, all of which is peer reviewed. The program also offers an excellent roadmap for someone choosing to move up in fire prevention.
According to Rick Mason, CFO, CPC chair, “When contemplating what the next professional designation should be, the Commission on Professional Credentialing was quick to embrace the Fire Marshal designation … it makes sense that those who enforce our fire codes, teach citizens fire prevention and find the cause of destructive fires should have a professional designation. Having the designation will both show professionalism of the individual as well as the professionalism of the department.”
To initiate the Fire Marshal designation process, the candidate must assemble a portfolio demonstrating excellence in seven key areas:
- Experience
- Education
- Professional Development
- Professional Contributions
- Professional Memberships and Affiliations
- Community Service
- Technical Competencies
Those exhibiting extensive experience and educational background may meet the eligibility requirements to exempt them from having to complete the technical competency section.
In addition, fire prevention officers who have a valid International Code Council (ICC) Fire Marshal Certification will have an advantage when they seek the Fire Marshal Designation through CPC. The ICC certification acknowledges credentials and competencies to serve as a Fire Marshal. The CPC recognizes anyone holding a current ICC Fire Marshal Certification as having the technical competencies in building and fire code administration necessary for the Fire Marshal Designation.
When asked about this new designation, CPSE President Chief Randy R. Bruegman, CFO, stated, “The introduction of the Fire Marshal credential is yet another step for the Center for Public Safety Excellence and the Commission on Professional Credentialing to recognize current leaders and provide a means to assist others in their professional development in the future. We recognize the critical importance that fire and life safety prevention has in the fire service today.
“It is imperative that we recognize those in leadership positions who have committed to obtaining the needed qualifications, experience and education to achieve success in this field of endeavor. As importantly, that we provide a road map that will support a career development for young officers today, who aspire to become fire marshals in the future. I am very proud of the work that was done by the Commission and I would encourage every fire chief to encourage their fire marshal to undertake this credentialing process.”
To learn more about the Fire Marshal designation or to begin the application process, please visit CPSE's Fire Marshal Designation webpage.