06/23/2026
Recently, several members of our department had the honor of participating in and graduating from the Virginia Fire Officer Academy(VFOA) and the Virginia Chief Officer Academy(VCOA), held at the University of Richmond.
These highly respected leadership programs are recognized throughout Virginia's fire service and beyond. Held annually, both academies feature a rigorous and highly competitive selection process.
Throughout the week, participants were challenged through intensive leadership development, personnel management training, physical fitness sessions beginning at 6:00 a.m., and classroom discussions and presentations that often continued until 9:00 p.m. Each program is designed to prepare current and future fire service leaders to effectively navigate the real-world challenges facing today's fire service.
Our department remains committed to supporting professional development opportunities like these and is proud to have staff represented in these prestigious programs. We would also like to extend our sincere appreciation to the families who supported these members during their week away.
Please join us in congratulating this year's graduates:
Lieutenant Andrew Richardson – Virginia Fire Officer Academy (VFOA)
Division Chief of Training Colten Lotts – Virginia Chief Officer Academy (VCOA)
Deputy Chief Chris Shaver – Administrative/Finance Section Chief, Virginia Chief Officer Academy (VCOA)
Congratulations to each of these leaders on this outstanding accomplishment and thank you for your continued dedication to our department and community!