How to Lead in Today’s Volunteer Department with John Sahatjian

 

Leadership in a volunteer fire department doesn’t work the same way as it does in a career department.

For starters, the officer positions may rotate, as frequently as every year. That means it can be tough to develop a consistent leadership culture.

My guest today says there’s also been a change in attitudes facing those leaders, and it’s not a good one.

John Sahatjian has been in the fire service for 17 years.

He’s the Fire Chief at the South Wall Fire Rescue Company, Fire District #3 in Wall Township, New Jersey.

John is a certified National Level 2 instructor.

John’s article: Leading in the NEW Volunteer Fire Service

Article: Fire department leadership: It’s influence, not a title

Trivia question:
How much water can a fire engine’s onboard tank hold and still be classified as an engine?

Answer:
A fire engine can generally carry about 1,500 gallons of water and still be called an engine.