WFCA Quarterly Newsletter 2023 | Q3
Published:October 31, 2023
Edited:November 1, 2023
Find out what news and announcements were shared in the latest Q3 2023 edition of the Quarterly Newsletter, produced by Western Fire Chiefs Association (WFCA).
We’ve been busy with activities and networking over the past couple of months, and we’re excited to share the highlights with you!
IAFC’s Fire-Rescue International (FRI) in Kansas City, MO
We had a fantastic time at this year’s FRI, this event always provides the ideal platform for invaluable networking and educational opportunities. During the WFCA Division Lunch at FRI, we had the honor of presenting the 2023 Innovation Award to Assistant Chief Andrea Glass of the Tempe Fire Department and Emergency Manager Michele Seitz for their Family Reunification program.
WFCA’s 18th Annual Presidents’ Forum in Anchorage, AK
In September, our Western Board Members and State Association Leaders gathered at the 18th Annual Presidents’ Forum in Anchorage, AK. The event led to impactful discussions and included informative presentations. President Mark Niemeyer presented the 2023 President’s Award to two key executives, Executive Director Jeff Johnson and Chief Operating Officer David Van Ballegooijen. Their unwavering dedication and commitment to the WFCA mission are truly commendable.
Congratulations to all award recipients for their outstanding contributions!
An Excellent Fire Chief Opportunity in Sisters, Oregon
Jeff Johnson, WFCA Executive Director
I call the beautiful town of Sisters, Oregon, my home, and its undeniably one of the finest places to live in the Northwest. The community here is exceptional, and so is the Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire District. The District’s Fire Chief, Roger Johnson (who also happens to be my brother), is set to retire in July of 2024. WFCA is actively seeking a highly qualified successor. If you are a forward-looking Fire Chief who understands the value of excellence and a positive organizational culture, this position could be an ideal match for you.
Click here to read more about this exciting opportunity and gain insights into life in the charming town of Sisters. Express interest by Wednesday, Nov. 8.
Sourcewell for Purchasing Fire Apparatus
As fire departments face extended lead times and disruptions in the supply chain, cooperative purchasing through Sourcewell is emerging as a strategic approach to efficiently secure vital equipment and condense the procurement cycle.
Cooperative purchasing can be a highly effective tool for streamlining the procurement process, and a clear example of this is seen in the acquisition of firefighting apparatus. Typically after assessing its needs, a department would need to develop and issue an RFP, perform a bid evaluation, negotiate and award a contract, place an order, wait for delivery and acceptance, then work to get ongoing training and support as needed from the supplier.
By using Sourcewell contracts, departments satisfy their procurement requirements and can move straight to placing an order with the supplier they want to work with while receiving ongoing support from Sourcewell through the entire process. This approach expedites the acquisition of apparatus while conserving valuable staff time and resources.
To view Apparatus Contracts available through Sourcewell, click HERE
To check your Sourcewell member status or to view all contracts available to you through Sourcewell, visit the Sourcewell website or call 877-585-9706.
WFCA’s Fire Headlines Podcast
Fire Headlines Podcast is excited to welcome a new host to join Chiefs Bob Horton and Jeff Buchanan to cover the hottest topics in fire service news. Samantha Didion has been at the Western Fire Chiefs Association since June of 2023 and is attending Washington State University to earn her master’s degree in strategic communications. Fire Headlines is excited to bring Samantha in and incorporate her journalistic and communication expertise into the show’s dynamic.
Samantha is originally from Ohio and made her move to Southern Oregon after completing her undergraduate degree to be a multimedia journalist at a TV news station. Before joining the WFCA team, Samantha was the Community Engagement Coordinator at a local fire department. Get to know Samantha and the rest of the Fire Headlines team by listening to our newest episodes. If you haven’t already done so, please don’t forget to check out the exclusive Maui Wildfires episode with WFCA’s Hawaii Director Chief Jeff Murray!
Episodes can be found anywhere you get your podcasts or by going to our website.
Follow & Share
Weekly episodes are announced on Thursdays through our social media pages: Facebook, X, Instagram, and LinkedIn. We welcome you to follow us and keep the conversation going by submitting questions and topic suggestions at [email protected].
WFCA Wildfire Articles
In the wake of a devastating fire season this year, it’s crucial for the public to stay informed and be prepared. Check out these must-read wildfire articles from WFCA that offer valuable insights for your community members to read.
“What Happens if Your House Burns Down in a Wildfire?” – Discover essential information on navigating the aftermath of a wildfire and understanding the process of rebuilding.
“Wildfire Recovery for Communities: How to Rebuild and Cope” – Learn about the steps communities can take to recover, rebuild, and support one another in the face of wildfire devastation.
“Deadliest Wildfires in US History” – Delve into the historical context and significant wildfires that have shaped our understanding of fire management and prevention.
“How to Stay Safe During Wildfire” – Gain practical tips and guidelines to prioritize your safety and the safety of others during a wildfire event.
“Wildfire Preparedness Checklist” – Equip yourself with a comprehensive checklist to proactively prepare for wildfires and safeguard your home and loved ones. Stay informed, and prepared, and let’s work together to raise awareness and combat the threat of wildfires!