For new and aspiring chiefs, it can be very overwhelming when you step into that top position. There is no playbook to guide you, rather, you often must go on your gut instincts and own experience. There is no substitute; however, for the chance to sit down with other chiefs, particularly those seasoned veterans who have been through it both good and bad times and bring with them a wealth of knowledge and experience.

Now you have a unique opportunity for one-on-one time with the best in the business. Chief Alan Brunacini is leading a new executive-level education program just for new and aspiring chiefs. “Executive Edge: Bruno’s Boot Camp for Fire Service Leaders”, will teach you lessons not taught in any school. Brunacini has carefully constructed the Executive Edge program using what he learned in his nearly 50 years in the fire service. Using a case-study, small-class format, Brunacini and other seasoned fire service leaders will take you through an intensive, two-day program in which you will:

• Gain innovative ways to forge decisions that create the best possible outcomes
• Develop actual functional survival skills
• Learn effective fire chief behavior routines in response to real life (minefield) situations
• Have a network you can turn to for support during challenging times

"As a new fire chief, having the ability to spend two full days with seasoned, veteran fire chiefs who have been uniquely successful throughout their careers transcended the ability to acquire knowledge”, says Randy Mirowski, Fire Chief of Loveland Fire and Rescue and a graduate of the August 2009 inaugural Executive Edge program. “This course was at the ‘wisdom’ level, the highest level of learning, providing me with insight and experience that would take years to gain on my own. I would highly recommend this course to any new fire chief, but there is also a great deal here for veteran fire chiefs as well."

You can also read more about the Executive Program in On Scene, Executive Edge a Resounding Success.
The next Executive Edge program will be December 7-8 in Phoenix, AZ, with additional programs being added for 2010. Be one of the first to experience this new executive leadership program. Class size is limited to 25 participants, so act today! For more information and to register, go to www.iafc.org/execedge.