IAFC - VCOS Section

05/29/2026

Nominations are now open for the 2026 Training Officer Award! Vector Solutions Fire & EMS
and VCOS are proud to recognize exceptional leadership in fire service training through the annual training officer award! The deadline is June 30.
https://info.vectorsolutions.com/vcos-training-officer-award-nomination-2026

05/25/2026

Today we honor those who gave their lives in service to our country. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten.

05/19/2026

Nominations are now open for the Chief John R. Leahy Jr. Award for Mentoring Excellence
Presented annually by the International Society of Fire Service Instructors
Sponsored by the National Fire Sprinkler Association - NFSA
The Chief John R. Leahy Jr. Award for Mentoring Excellence honors an individual who has demonstrated an enduring commitment to mentoring, leadership development, and the advancement of others within the emergency services profession. This award recognizes those who have made a meaningful and lasting impact through guidance, encouragement, and service to others.

Nominees should exemplify the values of leadership, professionalism, and mentorship through their actions and contributions within their organization and the emergency services community.

The Chief John R. Leahy Jr. Award for Mentoring Excellence recognizes an individual within the emergency services profession who has demonstrated exceptional commitment to mentoring, leadership development, and the advancement of others through service, guidance, and positive influence. Submission D...

05/19/2026

FEMA Grants are now open!

🚨 FEMA Fire Grant applications are now open! Departments can now apply for:
🔥 Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG)
👨‍🚒 SAFER Grants
🛡️ Fire Prevention & Safety (FP&S) Grants

Don’t miss this opportunity to secure critical funding for your department and community.

👉 Apply at grants.gov
👉 Learn more: https://www.fema.gov/grants/preparedness/firefighters

05/15/2026

The VCOS encourages our members to participate in the FireRescue1 survey on the Pulse of 911 survey. It will take about 15-20 minutes to complete. Your input will inform policy, funding and support for emergency communications nationwide. The deadline is May 30th.
https://ow.ly/SeLz50YZ2AL

05/14/2026

VCOS, alongside our generous partners, provides several scholarship opportunities for leaders to attend Symposium in the Sun, November 12–15 in Clearwater, FL.
Submit your application by June 30 to receive full registration and travel assistance.
https://www.iafc.org/about-iafc/sections/vcos/education/scholarships

05/13/2026

The Call for Award Nominations is now open! Each year, the IAFC Volunteer and Combination Officers Section, in partnership with Provident Insurance and VFIS - Firefighter & EMS, presents awards honoring exceptional leadership and service within the fire community.

These include:
- William F. Jenaway Illness & Injury Prevention Award (sponsored by VFIS)
- Retention and Recruitment Achievement Award (sponsored by VFIS)
- John M. Buckman III Leadership Award (sponsored by Provident)

Submit your nominations by June 30th. Awards will be presented at Symposium in the Sun in Clearwater, FL - November 12-15, 2026.
https://www.iafc.org/about-iafc/sections/vcos/about/awards

05/12/2026

Please take a moment to download this report and share it with those under your command. The information inside could save your life — and the lives of people you know and those you may never meet. https://www.facebook.com/FSRI.org
https://fsri.org/research/study-fire-service-residential-home-size-and-search-rescue-operations

05/12/2026

Elections are now open!

🗳️ IAFC Voting Has Begun! Make your voice heard. Check your eligibility and participate in shaping the future of the IAFC. Not a voting member—or not yet a member? There’s still time to join and vote. Deadline: May 10 👉 Learn more & join: iafc.org/membership

03/26/2026

🏛️ Legislative Update! Today, the U.S. House Energy & Commerce Committee unanimously passed the First Responder Network Authority Reauthorization Act of 2026 (H.R. 7386) with a substitute amendment.

This amendment was developed with input from active fire chiefs and IAFC members—ensuring the fire service voice is represented. https://www.iafc.org/blogs/blog/iafc/2026/03/25/house-committee-passes-bill-to-preserve-federal-firstnet-authority