Chief Kelvin Cochran, US Fire Administrator, was the Keynote Speaker in the first general session opening the Center for Public Safety Excellence (CPSE) 2010 Excellence Conference.  Chief Cochran brought greetings from President Obama, DHS Secretary Janet Napolitano, and FEMA Director Craig Fugate to all the attendees of the conference being held this week in Orlando, Florida.  During his opening comments Chief Cochran recognized women in the fire service as part of National Women’s History Month. 

 

Chief Cochran’s address spoke to the future of the US Fire Administration by discussing the Mission of FEMA and USFA, and eight strategic initiatives included in their strategic plan.  He used the opportunity to highlight the role of the fire service and its leadership at all levels in the USFA mission and initiatives. He specifically challenged the industry to participate in the “Install, Inspect, Protect” program.  He called on attendees and the industry to become engaged in the revision and improvement process for NFIRS, and make a personal commitment to report to NFIRS, and to ensure the quality and timeliness of the data.  It is critical to the fire services at the federal, state, and local level to have access to accurate and contemporary data with which to tell their story, set critical priorities, and above all, ensure the public is receiving the service it deserves. 

 

Chief Cochran ended his presentation using the Preamble to the Constitution to remind us all of the purpose and commitment required of us as US Citizens. He then led the group in a stirring fire service version of the Preamble which included a commitment by the attendees affirming each ones individual responsibilities and actions.

 

The CPSE 2010 Conference is designed to help agencies and individual leaders achieve excellence in services and professional development.  CPSE President Randy Bruegman stated, “It is so appropriate that Chief Cochran opened this conference and spoke to the need for excellence in service and leadership, including the development of our future leadership and planning for succession. “  In addition to Chief Bruegman, two other former presidents of the IAFC are part the conference this week.  Chief Ronny Coleman is delivering a three day professional development program for chief fire officers, and Chief Steve Westermann serves as a member of the Commission on Fire Accreditation International.