Alachua County Fire Rescue Deputy Chief Jeff Taylor has obtained the designation of Executive Fire Officer from the National Fire Academy. Founded over 35 years ago, the program has graduated over 4300 fire officers internationally with some 1700 still on active duty.
The Executive Fire Officer Program provides senior fire officers with a broad perspective on various facets of fire and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) administration. The courses and accompanying research examine how to exercise leadership when dealing with difficult or unique problems within communities.
The four-year program involves multiple two-week intensives at the National Fire Academy, located in Emmitsburg, MD, followed by research projects each year, with a goal of improving public safety in the community. Training includes leadership skills, organizational management, along with the most efficient and modern firefighting techniques.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to attend this prestigious program. It was an honor to be among so many fire services leaders from around the world who are passionate about making their communities safer and becoming better leaders for their organizations,” said Taylor.