Master the Skills to Lead as a Fire Company Officer

This Company Officer course is a self-paced, online program with continuous enrollment designed to meet the educational requirements for Florida Fire Officer I certification. This 45-hour course aligns with the applicable NFPA 1020 Standard for Fire Officer Professional Qualifications and follows the curriculum established by the Florida Bureau of Fire Standards and Training (BFST). Successful completion of this course, in conjunction with the remaining components of the Florida Fire Officer I series, qualifies students to sit for the Florida Fire Officer I certification examination administered by the Florida Bureau of Fire Standards and Training. This course prepares students for the transition into a first-level supervisory role within the fire service. It familiarizes students with the challenges, responsibilities, and decision-making processes encountered by Company Officers. Emphasis is placed on leadership, supervision, and organizational effectiveness within a fire company. Students will examine foundational leadership and management theories, with a strong focus on their practical application in the fire service environment. The course also explores the characteristics of effective leadership, including the attitudes, behaviors, and decision-making skills required to perform successfully in high-stress and dynamic emergency situations. Course Overview This course provides comprehensive instruction in the core competencies required of a Company Officer, including: -Fire department administration and organizational structure -Principles and theories of management -Leadership and supervisory skills -Effective communication strategies -Motivation and performance management -Small group dynamics -Problem-solving and decision-making techniques -Goal setting and achievement -Self-assessment and professional development Learning Outcomes Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:  -Demonstrate a clear understanding of the roles and responsibilities of a Company Officer -Identify effective strategies for preparing for promotional advancement -Explain the working relationship between Company Officers and firefighters -Apply fundamental management and leadership principles in the fire service environment -Recognize potential risks and implement appropriate mitigation strategies -Enhance training and coaching practices within their company -Utilize personnel evaluation methods, including progressive discipline -Foster positive interactions and outcomes within the community -Effectively address problems, manage complaints, and correct deficiencies -Understand and apply the Company Officer’s role in code enforcement -Develop and manage a budget while recognizing its organizational impact -Communicate clearly and effectively in a variety of situations -Develop and implement incident action plans  -Lead and implement organizational change initiatives