Testimonials

"I joined the WSFCA Board to have a shared voice to advocate for the Wisconsin Fire Service, to network with other Chief Officers from accross the state, and to learn and develop myself as a leader."

-Mike Stanley, WSFCA 1st Vice President

Oshkosh Fire Department

"I believe there are many benefits to being a member of the WSFCA; but two of the most important benefits include networking and the ongoing advocacy for our industry. First, having the network of Fire Chiefs from around the State of Wisconsin to contact and reach out to, not only to bounce ideas off of, ask questions to, and help with problem solving, but to build the friendships that go beyond any of these other items. When I first became Chief 5 years ago, this was a great group that I was able to become part of to build relationships through. These connections continue to be great resources that I often reach out to to have daily conversations from both the Fire Department side, and probably more importantly, the personal side.

Second, is the importance of being part of a group that is continuing to improve the Fire Service for all of our departments as we work with Legislature on important topics that ultimately affect each of us. Items such as the PTSD Bill, PFAS and working with the DNR and the State for financial support,  and that of starting back up of Task Force 1, are just a few recent hot topics. Being part of this association has made me aware of the impact we as the WSFCA can make, and help improve all departments within the State of Wisconsin. Also, I appreciate the fact that EVERY department has a voice, especially in the Volunteer Departments who often feel their opinion doesn’t matter -- This group truly does listen and care about what each one has to say and will support them. I am proud to be a member and extremely honored to be part of a Board that is continuously looking to improve for the better of all departments.

-Joe Diener, WSFCA Volunteer Service Trustee

Brillion Fire Department

"I am a member of the WSFCA because this organization helps shape the future of the fire service in Wisconsin and beyond. I want to give back to the fire service; which has given me and my family so much."

-Jeremy Hansen, WSFCA Career Service Trustee

Appleton Fire Department

"Some of the most important things the WSFCA does for the Fire Service Industry is shares best practices and responses to common issues, as well as has very strong legislative representation for our departments."

- Jim Case, WSFCA Southeast Trustee

Wauwatosa Fire Department

"The WSFCA has me and my department’s best interests in mind.  They equally support all organization types whether it be career, combination or all volunteer. They have their pulse on the fire service and address topics and/or issues in a timely manner for the betterment of the fire service. From a legislative standpoint, I am not sure where the Wisconsin fire service would be without the WSFCA.  Not being a part of this organization I feel would be detrimental to my department and ultimately my community. 

Additionally, the value of networking can not be understated.  Whether it be the list serve, the conference, or other events during the year, having the ability to come together collectively as a group and collaborate on nearly any fire service related topic, in my opinion you can not put a price on that. The fact that everyone is more than willing to share, ideas or experiences makes this organization even better."

-Craig Olson, WSFCA East Central Trustee

Cambellsport Vol Fire Department

"My most important reasons for joining the WSFCA include the networking opportunities such as conferences, chief’s email network, educational opportunities, etc., as well as the strong legislative representation. The money from membership fees helps support the important legislative work that takes place in Madison. In my time on the Board, especially in the past 1-1 ½ years, I feel the WSFCA has really become very strategic in this work and it has yielded some great results thus far."

-BJ DeMaa, WSFCA Combination Service Trustee

Waupun Fire Department

"The WSFCA not only provides great opportunities for networking with like-minded professionals, but also provides a group of individuals who serve as mentors and help guide others through the challenging jungle of being a Chief and a community safety leader. The association is a central spot for officer and leadership training and provides a platform to share best practices with other departments that are similar in size and type. Lastly, we receive a clear understanding of legislative events taking place, as well as the cause and effect it could have on the fire service and our individual departments."

-Joe Pfaff, WSFCA Treasurer

Stoddard-Bergen Vol Fire Dept

"I covet the opportunity to be a part of an organization that is looking to improve the Fire service for the entire state. I believe that all Chiefs who make up the Board are part of the board because they have and work toward the same mission. The networking is another incredible benefit as I have used all of the Chiefs as a resource in my decision making. Being part of the Board is like having 15 Consultants at my fingertips."

-Chris Garrison, WSFCA Past President

Sun Prairie Fire Department