Murfreesboro Hosts 49th Annual Tennessee Fire Chiefs Association Conference
Fire service personnel from all over the state are in Murfreesboro during July 22-25th for the 49th Annual Tennessee Fire Chiefs Association (TFCA) Conference at Embassy Suites.
“Last year was the first time the conference was held in Murfreesboro, and it was a huge success” said Murfreesboro Fire Rescue Department Chief Mark Foulks. “We have even more apparatus and equipment on display inside of the conference center, along with several of our firefighters participating.”
On Sunday and Monday, the indoor exhibit was free and open to the public. “In years past, the equipment was all outside,” said Foulks, “and in July, indoor exhibits are much more favorable due to the heat!”
Mayor Shane McFarland gave opening remarks for the conference and Murfreesboro Fire & Rescue Department’s Honor Guard presented colors. On a special note, Senator of the 13th District Bill Ketron awarded a proclamation of gratitude to Gatlinburg Fire Chief Greg Miller for their outstanding work and professionalism. Gatlinburg Mayor Mike Werner, Vice Mayor Mark McCown and City Manager Cindy Ogle attended the presentation and extended their thanks as well.
MTSU Coach Kermit Davis spoke to the fire service members about creating a winning culture and communicating with your team.
MFRD Fire Rescue Chief Mark Foulks and Assistant Chief Allen Swader were awarded a certificate of appreciation from the Tennessee Fire Service and Codes Enforcement Academy for logging 10,126 training hours. The Tennessee Federation of Fire Chaplains conducted a memorial service for fallen firefighters.
“This conference is a great asset to fire officers and other managers of emergency services organizations,” said Foulks. “The classes and demonstrations are designed to equip attendees with valuable skills and knowledge to enhance their professionalism and capabilities in their departments.”
In addition to providing training opportunities to Chief Fire Officers across our state, the Tennessee Fire Chief’s owns and manages the Statewide Fire and Emergency Service Mutual Aid system, is supporting statewide Incident Management Teams, is facilitating a grant that provides recruitment and retention resources to volunteer and combination fire departments across the state, and numerous other life safety and leadership initiatives.
