Q&A with the 2017 Volunteer Fire Chief of the Year: Chief Brian Wade

IAFC: What does it mean to you to be honored as 2017 Fire Chief of the Year?

Wade: Receiving the news that I had been selected was very exciting and a little intimidating. I have just been accepted into what I consider to be a truly elite group. I was able to meet and network with some of the best fire chiefs and fire-service leaders in the nation. This has truly been a humbling experience and one I’ll cherish for the rest of my days. I was extremely impressed with the professionalism I witnessed and it’s certainly my honor to be a part of this group.

IAFC: What has the reaction been from your department and community about being named Fire Chief of the Year?

Wade: I feel like I have always had great support from my family and my community. I was truly overwhelmed with the response from my community once the announcement was made. I received many calls and supporting comments on social media. I genuinely appreciate all of the support my community and my department has given me over the years and throughout this process. However, I appreciate even more the opportunities I’ve been given and the support they continue to show. Together we can make a difference.

IAFC: Who has been the most influential person inside or outside the fire service on your success? Why?

Wade: My father Aaron Hardy Wade Jr., known to many by his nickname “Broom.” I followed his footsteps, which led me straight to the firehouse. He always set a great example for me to follow. I grew up watching him as he served our community, led others, lived as a respectable man and still made time to make me feel important. I hope to be half the man he was.

IAFC: What advice would you offer new or emerging leaders in the fire service?

Wade: The fire service is always changing. Move with it; don’t get left behind. Our communities expect the best from us, and this is what we’re constantly training and preparing for. Go out and make a difference in your community and department. I don’t know that there is any better feeling than knowing that you have helped someone. Whether it be assisting a new firefighter in recruit school, working with a junior officer to prepare for a promotional process or doing work on the fireground. In each of these you have made a difference. Make your time here in our fire service count; be the difference.