This report details research conducted by VFIS, which identified the following eighteen specific topics of importance to the chief - the CEO of the fire department.

1. Organizational Design: Bylaws, Charters, Statutes, and Laws
2. Your Role
3. Decision-Making
4. Managing Fire Department Finances
5. Risk Management
6. Marketing Management
7. Human Resource Management
8. Customer Service
9. Leadership/Conflict Resolution
10. Training Techniques and Professional Development
11. Information Management
12. Management Liability and Employment Practices Liability
13. Understanding the Legislative Process
14. Quality Management
15. Public Information Management
16. Using Legal Counsel
17. Strategic Planning
18. Avoiding Trouble