By FireRescue1 Staff
DALLAS — The IAFC, in partnership with Pierce Manufacturing Inc., announced the recipients of the 2024 Fire Chief of the Year Awards during the Fire-Rescue International Conference in Dallas, identified for their “exemplary representations of leadership, innovation, professional development, integrity, and public service within the fire service.”
Chief Christopher Vaughan of the Cuba (Alabama) Fire Department was named the Volunteer Fire Chief of the Year. Vaughan has led the CFD since 1994, securing more than $25 million in grants for Sumter County and surrounding areas. He co-founded the Alabama Public Safety Leadership Academy and continues to serve as section chief of regional services at the Alabama State Fire College, as well as director of Alabama’s National Volunteer Fire Council and director of District 3 for the Alabama Association of Volunteer Fire Departments.
Chief Randy Royal of the Colorado Springs Fire Department was awarded Career Fire Chief of the Year. Under his leadership, the department has added two new fire stations, with a third currently underway. Royal also implemented a tiered EMS model and established a dedicated staff for the department’s Hazardous Materials Response Team. His commitment to the wellbeing of his colleagues is evident in his efforts to enter the CSFD into the Colorado Firefighter Benefits Trust and secure a $900,000 AFG grant for firefighter fitness and training. He also advocates for improved personal protective equipment and established several mental health support initiatives for department members.
IAFC President Chief John Butler (right) shakes hands with Chief Randy Royal, the Career Fire Chief of the Year.
DANIEL ARIZPE 2024
IAFC President Chief John Butler shakes hands with Chief Christopher Vaughan (at right), Volunteer Fire Chief of the Year.
DANIEL ARIZPE 2024
Pierce Manufacturing President Bob Schulz (center) stands with the two award recipients.
DANIEL ARIZPE 2024
Pierce Manufacturing President Bob Schulz with the two award recipients.
DANIEL ARIZPE 2024
IAFC President John Butler (left) stands with past and present IAFC presidents and chief of the year award recipients.
DANIEL ARIZPE 2024
We celebrated fire service leadership excellence last night at the Fire Chief of the Year Reception! 🏆✨ A huge round of applause and cheers to the leaders who inspire us all! 🥂 #FRI2024 #LeadershipExcellence pic.twitter.com/c6w0YcwTQ8
— IAFC (@IAFC) August 14, 2024
