Message from NCAFC President Chief Jennifer Smith

It is both an honor and a privilege to serve as your President of the NCAFC. This Association has long stood as a unifying voice for the fire service in North Carolina, and I am humbled to continue that tradition of leadership, advocacy, and service.

As we look to the future, our focus is on building a stronger, safer, and more resilient fire service. We will continue to protect firefighter health and safety, expand educational opportunities that develop leaders, and support recruitment and retention across the state. At the same time, we remain committed to growing our Association, strengthening partnerships, ensuring financial stability, and honoring our history while embracing innovation for the future.

Our direction will continue to be shaped by the needs of our members and the communities they serve. By fostering collaboration within our Association and building strong partnerships with regional, state, and national organizations, we will meet challenges head on and strengthen the Association.

Chief Jennifer Smith

The fire service has always been about people — the ones we serve, and the ones we lead. The NCAFC exists to stand beside chiefs and officers in that work, providing the tools, training, and support you need to succeed. By empowering leaders, we enable meaningful action — action that strengthens departments, supports firefighters, and serves communities across North Carolina. Together, we will make a lasting impact.

Chief Jennifer Smith

2025–2026 President

North Carolina Association of Fire Chiefs