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By Gary Giacomo
The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC), in partnership with Pierce Manufacturing Inc., announced Fire Chief Brian Fennessy of the Orange County Fire Authority as the career 2023 IAFC Fire Chief of the Year honoree during its annual Fire-Rescue International conference in Kansas City, MO on August 16. Volunteer Chief Thomas Bell of Greensburg (PA) Volunteer Fire Department was also honored.
Chief Fennessy’s nearly 50-year journey in the fire service, from a hotshot and helitack captain to a transformative leader, has garnered this esteemed accolade. Throughout his tenure, Chief Fennessy has been an unwavering advocate and change agent for the fire service. As the Fire Chief for the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department and currently for the OCFA where he became chief in 2018, his leadership has positively influenced myriad fire service arenas. From implementing innovative technology, aerial resources, and real-time intelligence systems to elevating mental and behavioral health, diversity, and inclusion in the fire service, Chief Fennessy’s contributions have left an indelible mark on the profession.
Under his visionary guidance, OCFA’s Quick Reaction Force (QRF) — a groundbreaking public-private partnership with Southern California Edison — has revolutionized wildfire response. The QRF fleet, including CH-47 helitankers and intelligence helicopters, made over 2,200 drops, preventing new wildfires from exceeding 10 acres, 95 percent of the time. Additionally, Chief Fennessy has been instrumental in fostering diversity and inclusion within the OCFA through pioneering initiatives and programs. As fire chief Fennessy oversees 78 stations serving nearly 2 million residents in 23 municipalities and unincorporated areas
In a prepared statement the IAFC noted, “Chief Fennessy’s remarkable contributions to the fire service have earned him the IAFC Chief of the Year recognition, a testament to his enduring commitment and dedication to making a lasting impact on the fire service community.”
A selection committee appointed by the IAFC reviewed nominations for active chiefs of departments who have shown exemplary contributions in the areas of leadership, innovation, professional development, integrity, public service, and contributions to the fire service.
You can learn more about the IAFC Fire Chief of the Year Awards here.