| Hosted by the Pennsylvania Career Fire Chiefs Association, the event welcomed more than 250 fire service leaders, their families, and industry partners for a valuable opportunity to connect, learn, and strengthen professional relationships.
Centered around this year’s theme, “The Art of Leadership: Inspire Action,” the conference delivered a dynamic and engaging program from start to finish. The opening ceremony featured honor guards from Manheim Township Fire Fighters Local 5423 and Norristown Fire Fighters Local 2335, followed by a powerful rendition of the National Anthem by DAVE BRAY USA. Immediately following the anthem, a special memorial service was conducted by Pastor Mike Sigman, a friend of the Pennsylvania fire chiefs, honoring those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.
Attendees participated in a full day of impactful presentations. Chief Dave McGlynn opened the keynote with “Setting the Standard,” establishing the tone for the day. Additional sessions featured Chief Steven Locke, Chief Chas McGarvey, Dr. Heather Pfieffer, and Abe Amoros, each offering meaningful insights on leadership in today’s evolving fire service. The conference concluded with an inspiring conversation from 1983 World Series MVP Rick Dempsey who shared lessons from his 24-year major league baseball career, emphasizing the importance of perseverance, trust, and leadership. He encouraged attendees to never give up on yourself or the people you lead, to build trust through effective communication, and to lead with precision and purpose.
The evening concluded with the annual Fire Chiefs Gala, the Valor Award Presentation, and the installation of the 2026–2027 EDIAFC Board of Directors.
Special recognition was given to Firefighter Zachary Cleland and Water Operations Team Leader Daryl Tripp of the Middletown, Volunteer Fire Department, along with members of the Hummelstown and Hershey Fire Departments, for their heroic actions during a life-saving water rescue on Swatara Creek on July 4, 2025.
Highlighting the strength and presence of Pennsylvania’s leadership, President Thomas O’Donnell stated, “I’m honored to see PACFCA members leading by example. We are out in full force to make the necessary changes within the region.”
A special moment during the conference was the presentation of the PACFCA’s Lifetime Achievement Medal to its inaugural president, Fire Commissioner James Johnson, in recognition of his leadership and lasting legacy within the Pennsylvania fire service.
Past President Jay Delaney reflected on Commissioner Johnson’s impact, stating, “Commissioner Johnson never took no for an answer. He fought for everything he believed in and made sure every voice in the Pennsylvania fire service was heard.”
The installation of officers was conducted by IAFC First Vice President Steve Locke.
2026–2027 EDIAFC Board of Directors
President: Chief Scott Little
1st Vice President: Chief Gary Krichbaum
2nd Vice President: Chief Chris Burnett
Delaware State Director: Chief Andy Hall
Maryland State Director: Chief Tom Coe
New Jersey State Director: Chief Joseph Jackson
New York State Director: Chief Jansen Casscles
Pennsylvania State Director: Chief A.J. McCarthy
Past President: Chief Joseph Fahd
International Director to the IAFC: Chief James Yates
Executive Director: Chief Jon Townley
Assistant Executive Director: Chief William Walton
Strong leadership. Meaningful collaboration. Real impact.
IAFC - International Association of Fire Chiefs Pennsylvania Fire & Emergency Services Institute Office of the Governor of Pennsylvania |
