Scott Alderman

Cape Lookout Leadership Solutions

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Chief R. Scott Alderman began his emergency services career as a volunteer firefighter in 1990. He was hired by the Kernersville Fire Department in 1991 and later served with the Forsyth County Fire Department, where he advanced to Assistant Fire Marshal. He also served as Fire Chief of the Lewisville Fire Department for 14 years before being appointed Chief of the Kernersville Fire Rescue Department in 2019.  Chief Alderman has held leadership roles in several professional organizations, including serving as President of the North Carolina State Firefighters Association. He holds an Associate in Applied Science degree from Guilford Technical Community College and a Bachelor of Science in Fire Safety Engineering from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. He is a graduate of the Executive Fire Officer Program at the National Fire Academy and is also credentialed as a Chief Fire Officer by the Center for Public Safety Excellence.

Dr. Lindsay Allotey, PsyD, LP, HSP 

Operations Manager, Responder Assistance Initiative

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Dr. Allotey is based out of our Raleigh office in the central region of the state. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in criminal justice and psychology from Rutgers University and a Doctorate in clinical forensic psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Dr. Allotey has over 12 years of experience in the human services field and has worked in a range of clinical settings, including corrections and community mental health. As part of the NC RAI team, she supports the mental wellness and resilience of North Carolina’s first responder community.

Matt Arnold

Sanford Fire Department

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I have spent the last 15 years in various leadership roles, both in the public and private sector.   The last ten years have been spent as a Chief Officer in the career fire service.  However, those things do not make me uniquely qualified to teach anyone.   What does however, is the fact that I have made mistakes - and I lot of them.  I can share some lessons learned from my own experiences, as well as those around me.

Jim Bell

Bobbitt Construction

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Jim joined Bobbitt in 2002 after serving as a Combat Engineering Officer with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. He has extensive experience delivering complex public and private projects, including fire stations and other mission-critical public safety facilities. Jim is a Design-Build Institute of America Certified Practitioner of Design-Build Done Right® and holds General Contractor licenses in North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, and Florida. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Vanderbilt University and has been recognized with the Triangle Business Journal 40 Under 40 Award and Wake Forest Chamber of Commerce Board Member of the Year.

Dan Berg

NCSFA Project and Relief Fund Specialist

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Dan Berg is the Project and Relief Fund Specialist of the North Carolina State Firefighters’ Association. Dan began his work with the Association in April 2014. Prior to working for the NCSFA, he worked as both the Meetings and Events Assistant as well as the Statewide Misdemeanant Confinement Program Assistant for the North Carolina Sheriffs’ Association. He also works part time as a Firefighter/EMT for the Cleveland Fire Department in Johnston County, North Carolina and serves as Vice President of the McLemore Firefighter’s Association of Johnston County. Dan has been married since 1999.

Frank Blackley

AP Triton

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Frank Blackley is retired from the Wilmington, NC Fire Department with over 35 years of experience in the fire service. He is a senior associate at consulting firm A.P. Triton. He previously served as Fire Marshal, Operations Chief, and Support Services Chief in Wilmington. He helped develop a National Fire Academy class on community risk reduction at the station level. He was involved in the department’s accreditation process and understands the importance of accurate data. He graduated from the National Fire Academy’s Executive Fire Officer Program, became a Chief Fire Officer, and holds a Master’s in Public Administration with a concentration in Urban and Regional Planning from UNC Wilmington. He is married to Kathy, and they have two daughters.

Peter Blaich

Town of Matthews Fire and EMS Department

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Peter Blaich is a highly respected leader in the firefighting and emergency services community, recognized for his distinguished career with the Fire Department of New York (FDNY) and his continued service in North Carolina. A veteran firefighter, World Trade Center responder, and collapse survivor, Blaich retired as a fire officer from the FDNY Rescue Battalion before assuming his current role as Battalion Chief with the Town of Matthews Fire and EMS Department in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina. Throughout his career, he has contributed extensively to frontline operations, specialized rescue missions, and advanced training initiatives, earning a reputation for his dedication to firefighter safety, operational excellence, and mentoring the next generation of fire service professionals.

Keith Bost

HR and Risk Management 

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Mr. Keith Bost has served the fire service community with distinction since 1994. Early in his career, he rose through the ranks to become one of the youngest Fire Chiefs in his region. During his 12-year tenure as Fire Chief, he led his department through significant organizational growth and transformation, gaining extensive experience in mergers, financial and operational analysis, ISO rating improvement, and comprehensive human resource management within emergency services.

Mr. Bost’s influence extends far beyond his own department. He has contributed to the advancement of the fire service at the county, state, and national levels, serving on numerous advisory boards and committees across federal, state, and local agencies.
In 2011, the National Volunteer Fire Council recruited Mr. Bost to develop national training programs for chief officers and instructors, recognizing his expertise in helping departments transition from fully volunteer to combination staffing models.

Since stepping out of the Fire Chief role, Mr. Bost founded a Human Resource and Risk Management firm that now supports more than 600 fire departments, 25 municipalities, multiple counties, and several state divisions, including the North Carolina Wildlife Commission, across more than six states. He has built a dedicated legal team that provides proactive and, when necessary, reactive protection for his clients.

In addition to consulting, Mr. Bost designed and launched HR and Risk Management software that is now used by hundreds of fire departments and rescue squads nationwide to strengthen compliance and reduce employment-law exposure.

Mr. Bost is driven by a passion for safeguarding the organizations that protect their communities. His commitment to the fire and emergency services sector is evident in every aspect of his work, from hands-on problem-solving to high-level strategic guidance.

Carl Brandreth

​Pooled Plan Sales Consultant, Transamerica

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Mark Brown

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Bill Burns 

​Peer Team Fire Coordinator, Responder Assistance Initiative

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​Bill Burns is a retired Charlotte Fire Department Captain with over three decades of service. In addition to his direct work with responders, Bill is a respected educator and trainer, sharing his knowledge with peer teams along the East Coast. His dedication to fostering resilience and mental wellness has made him a trusted voice in the first responder community.

Jim Cole

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Rick Davis

(Retired Fire Chief) Sherrills Ford-Terrell Fire & Rescue

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Rick Davis is a seasoned fire service leader with over four decades of experience in emergency management, fire protection, and organizational development. Serving as Fire Chief of Sherrills Ford-Terrell Fire & Rescue from 2012 until 2025, he spearheaded transformative growth, expanding the department’s budget from $1.2 million to nearly $5 million, securing a mutli-million state grant for a new station and training facility, and improving the NC Response Rating from Class 6/9E to Class 3. Rick’s leadership has been instrumental in advancing staffing levels, implementing succession planning, and enhancing pay and benefits systems, all while maintaining a strong commitment to community engagement and operational excellence. A graduate of the National Fire Academy’s Executive Fire Officer Program, Rick holds a Bachelor of Science in Emergency & Disaster Management and numerous professional certifications, including Chief Fire Officer (CPSE) and Certified Emergency Manager (IAEM). His career spans roles from firefighter to chief, adjunct instructor, and emergency management coordinator, complemented by published research and statewide leadership contributions. Rick’s expertise in strategic planning, grant acquisition, and stakeholder collaboration positions him as a trusted voice in guiding fire service organizations toward sustainable growth and resilience. 

TJ DeLuca

Professional Fire Department Risk Management Consultant

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TJ DeLuca TJ DeLuca is a 35+ year veteran of the fire service, having served in a variety of roles from firefighter to Company Officer and Chief Officer within both volunteer and large municipal agencies. He currently serves as a professional Fire Department Risk Management Consultant, where he provides guidance and support to municipalities and fire chiefs across the state. TJ’s work focuses on developing effective and compliant operational controls, improving safety practices, and helping departments strengthen their internal risk management programs.  

Jason Edwards

Nashville Fire Department

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Assistant Chief Jason Edwards has served as a career and volunteer firefighter in Nash County for over twenty-four years. After rising to Battalion Chief with the Nashville Fire Department, he joined the North Carolina Office of State Fire Marshal in 2018 as a Training Specialist. He returned to the Nashville Fire Department in 2022 as the first full-time Assistant Fire Chief of Operations and Training. Chief Edwards holds an A.A.S. in Emergency Management from Nash Community College, Chief Officer certifications from UNC Charlotte and MFRI, and multiple North Carolina fire and rescue certifications. He also serves on the Eastern Carolina Firefighters Association, the North Carolina Certification Board, and the Nash County Fire & Rescue Association.  Outside the fire service, Chief Edwards has been married to his wife, Ashley, for eighteen years, and they have three daughters: Charlotte, Abigail, and Addison.

Chris Ellington

Johnston County Fire Commission

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David Farnum

Charlotte Fire Department

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Division Chief David Farnum, CFO has been a member of the Charlotte Fire Department since 2001 and a member of the fire service since 1997. Before being promoted to Division Chief, Chief Farnum served in both operations and staff assignments as a Battalion Chief, most recently as the Chief of Planning and Research for 2 years. Chief Farnum served as the department’s Accreditation Manager for more than five years, and volunteers with the Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI) as a peer team leader. He works for the Center for Public Safety Excellence (CPSE) as a technical advisor, with a focus on assisting fire service agencies with developing their community risk assessment and standard of cover documents. In addition to CPSE, he is working with Underwriter’s Laboratory/Fire Safety Research Institute (UL/FSRI) to assist with the rollout and implementation of the National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS).

Chris Fenner

Wilmington Fire Department

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Chris Fenner is a career firefighter with over a decade of experience serving communities across both the Midwest and Southeast. He is the founder and CEO of Send Me Culture Co., a fire service training organization built on passion for the job, pride in tradition, and commitment to brotherhood.  Chris believes deeply in a Service Over Self and Them Over Us mentality — a leadership philosophy that puts people before policy and purpose before position. Through Send Me Culture Co., he delivers high-impact, emotionally charged presentations that challenge firefighters to reconnect with the heart of the job while embracing the changes shaping its future.  Known for his authenticity and passion on stage, Chris brings real-world experience, raw honesty, and storytelling that resonates with all ranks. His programs — including Legacy on Fire: Building the Future Without Burning the Past, Leading Without Rank, and The Power of Why in Training — focus on leadership, mentorship, and culture in today’s fire service.

Lauran Franklin

Salisbury Fire Department

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Chief Lauran Franklin is a Battalion Chief for the City of Salisbury, North Carolina. Since beginning her career in late 2007, she has paved her own way rising through the ranks of Recruit, Firefighter, Engineer, Lieutenant, and Captain. With an Associates Degree in Emergency Medical Science and a Bachelors Degree in Fire and Emergency Service Administration, Chief Franklin intends to continue her career advancement while impacting others with her knowledge and commitment for the service.

Jamie Fulk

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Alan Griffin

Carolina Beach Fire Department

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Chief Alan Griffin has over 32 years of fire service experience.  He is currently the Fire Chief of Carolina Beach Fire Department where he has held that position for 14 years.  Prior to this position he worked as the Emergency Services Director for Montgomery County, North Carolina for 5 years where he also served as the volunteer Fire Chief of Biscoe Fire Department. Chief Griffin began his paid career at Pinehurst Fire Department in 1995. Before his paid career, Alan volunteered for Seagrove Fire Department and throughout his professional emergency services career. Chief Griffin has over 25 years of teaching experience as a North Carolina certified instructor, he has delivered presentations to numerous fire departments, seminars, and large conference including 1st Due Operations conference, County Fire Tactics conference in Florida, and both North and South Carolina Fire Chief's conference. Alan is the owner of 1st Due Tactics, a company dedicated to improving and motivating today's fire service through quality instruction.

Scottie Harris 

Town Manager for Weaverville, North Carolina

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Scottie Harris brings more than 30 years of experience in emergency services, including over two decades in municipal government leadership. His career also includes 10 years of overseas military service in war zones, supporting operations through both armed forces deployment and Department of Defense contracts. Scottie holds a Master’s degree in Organizational Leadership, a Bachelor’s degree in Fire Administration, and has completed the UNC Charlotte Human Resources Certificate Program. His broad background in leadership, public administration, and emergency management provides a unique perspective on organizational resilience and operational effectiveness.

Katie Henderson

Plan Analyst, RPSI

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William Jackson

Indian Beach Fire Department

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Will Jackson is a 15 year member of the North Carolina fire service with 10 of those years being career all with the Indian Beach - Salter Path Fire Department in Carteret County where he currently serves as the Deputy Fire Chief primarily overseeing operations. Will is a second-generation fireman who unapologetically loves the job and everything that comes with being a fireman. Will is the owner of Crystal Coast Fire Training and has a passion for sharing information with all levels of experience in any avenue presented. Will has worked and volunteered at multiple combination departments in coastal North Carolina bringing a diverse understanding of group and generational impacts and the successes and challenges of building cultures that come with them.

Christopher Jett

Stafford County Fire and Rescue Department

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Chris is a 35 year student of the fire and EMS service that brings deep operational experience and strong leadership to his role as a Battalion Chief and instructor. He offers a comprehensive perspective on fireground operations, incident command, and all things leadership. A respected presenter at local, state, and national conferences, Chris is known for delivering clear, practical, and experience-driven instruction that enhances responder safety, operational readiness, and professional development across the emergency services community.

Steve Johnson

Skyland Fire Department / Western Carolina University

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Dr. Steven (Steve) Johnson DNP, RN, NRP, CCP-C, CP-C, NCEE, CMTE is a performance-driven leader with over 35 years in Fire, Rescue, EMS, and Critical Care Transport (Air and Ground). He currently is a full-time faculty member and distance program coordinator at Western Carolina University in the Emergency Medical Care degree program. He is a part-time Community Paramedic/Community Risk Coordinator with Skyland Fire Department (near Asheville, NC). His doctoral research was in fall prevention in those aged 65-90. His contributions to professional organizations include serving as Board Chair for the North Carolina Association of Paramedics (NCAP) and as a Board Member with the Association of Air Medical Services (AAMS), where he was the appointed representative to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). He has also served on the boards of the Association of Critical Care Transport (ACCT) and Skyland Fire Department and as a Regent for the Medical Transport Leadership Institute (MTLI). Steve remains actively engaged with Skyland Fire Department, where he received the Chief’s Commendation in 2023 and serves as a part-time community paramedic/community risk coordinator.

Travis Johnson

Johnston County Fire Marshal

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Deborah C. Jolly

Director of Human Resources, City of Shelby

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Deborah spent over 25 years in Human Resources working in the non-profit healthcare industry prior to entering the public government venue 18 years ago.  She has worked in various leadership positions including human resource management, assessment & selection, talent management and learning & development.  She is an experienced facilitator in delivering training seminars, teambuilding workshops and coaching for performance improvement.  Deborah earned her Bachelor’s degree in Administrative Management and Psychology from Gardner-Webb University.  She resides in Boiling Springs, NC and is active in her community and church.  She has been married to her husband / best friend for 35 years and has 2 sons and a daughter-in-law.

Wayne Jones

Horry County Fire Rescue, Captain (Training Division)

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Captain Wayne Jones is a 33-year veteran of the fire service who began his career as a junior firefighter and has served as a company officer since 2008. A career member of Horry County Fire Rescue since 2001, he currently holds the rank of Captain in the Training Division, where he instructs and helps oversee the development of more than 100 recruits each year. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management with a concentration in Fire Science from Columbia Southern University and is certified as an IFSAC Fire Officer III and Instructor II. Captain Jones is also an active member of the International Society of Fire Service Instructors (ISFSI) and the South Carolina Association of Fire Chiefs.  An accomplished author and educator, Captain Jones has written The Why Before the How, Step Up to the Chalkboard, and Leave Your Thumbprint. His work has been featured in Fire Engineering, Firefighter Nation, and Firehouse magazines. Known across the fire service as “Uncle Wayne,” he shares his passion for mentorship and instruction through The Firefighters Chalkboard—a social media platform and podcast dedicated to building better firefighters through message, meaning, and mentorship.

Ken Kehmna

Western Fire Chiefs Association

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Ken Kehmna is a seasoned fire-service professional with over 35 years of experience, including more than 15 years in executive leadership. He progressed through roles as fire captain, battalion chief and deputy chief before becoming fire chief, where he led his organization through accreditation and implemented a new strategic plan, standards of cover and business model. In 2014, he took charge of his county’s Office of Emergency Management, reorganizing it and later restructuring the 911 Communications Center. He also served as Vice Chair of FIRESCOPE, influencing fire-service policy statewide and nationally, and remains active with major fire-service associations.

Thomas "Tom" Kelly

Riceville Volunteer Fire Department

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Who is Tom Kelly? I have more than 37 years of service with various fire departments both as a Full-time  member (26 years of service with my Full-Time organization) and Part-time Member from my early years as a Volunteer Firefighter / EMT in Virginia to my career serving Buncombe County since the early 1990's.   My Buncombe County service and professional growth includes the beginning as a Volunteer Firefighter / EMT to my first Full-Time paid position.  From there moving through the ranks of Lieutenant, Shift Captain, Assistant Chief / Training Officer, and now as a Fire Chief.  My education includes two A.A.S. Degrees one in Fire Protection Technology and the other in Emergency Management.  My informal education for professional development has been ongoing through the United States National Fire Academy since 1997.  My North Carolina credentials through the Office of the NC State Fire Marshal and North Carolina Office of EMS include Instructor II and Fire Inspector Level III.   Teaching classes through various Community Colleges has given me the opportunity to listen to today's members of Emergency Services and what their expectations are for the future needs to serve the public.  Other notable credentials include NC Fire Investigation Technician, National Fire Academy Instructor, NCOSFM Hazardous Materials Instructor, Driver Operator Pumps and Aerials, AEMT, and completing the NCOEMS Paramedic program in 2023 , as well as one of the first forty Instructors NFA Terrorism Instructors in NC 4 months post 911.

Matt Lawrence

Fire Chief, City of Burlington Fire Department

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Matt Lawrence is the Fire Chief for the City of Burlington Fire Department.  Prior to his appointment to Fire Chief in 2023, he has served as Deputy Chief since 2007 in the Burlington FD and Chapel Hill FD.  Chief Lawrence holds a Master's degree in Organizational Leadership from Waldorf University, and a B.S. in Fire and Safety Engineering Technology from the University of Cincinnati. He is a graduate of the Executive Fire Officer Program (EFO), the IAFC Fire Service Executive Development Institute (FSEDI), and is a credentialed Chief Fire Officer (CFO).

Trey Mayo

City of Winston-Salem Fire Department

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A 37-year member of North Carolina’s fire service, Trey Mayo has served as the fire chief for Winston-Salem since January 2015. From 1989 to 1995, he volunteered with the Plymouth and Carrboro Fire Departments, and the South Orange Rescue Squad. In 1996, Mayo joined the City of Raleigh Fire Department and was named valedictorian of his fire academy. During his 11-year tenure in Raleigh, Mayo rose to the rank of captain and was assigned to engine, ladder, and rescue companies in south and east Raleigh. Mayo was the deputy fire chief for Carrboro Fire-Rescue from December 2006 until May 2010, when he was appointed fire chief for the City of Rocky Mount, where he served until January 2015.  Mayo holds an Associate of Applied Science in Fire Protection Technology from Wilson Technical Community College, a Bachelor of Arts in Industrial Relations from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and a Master of Arts in Public Administration from North Carolina State University. He is a graduate of the National Fire Academy's Executive Fire Officer Program and has completed the Community Preparedness and Disaster Management Program at the University of North Carolina Gillings School of Public Health. Mayo is credentialed as a Chief Fire Officer by the Center for Public Safety Excellence and is a member of the Institution of Fire Engineers. He serves on the board of directors of the Piedmont Regional Trauma System and the Winston-Salem Rotary Club. Formerly, he served as the Southeastern Director of the Executive Fire Officers Section of the International Association of Fire Chiefs and as the municipal fire representative for NC Domestic Preparedness Region 4.

Graham McManus

Captain, Monroe Fire Department

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Travis Melvin

Fire Captain, Durham Fire Department

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Captain Travis Melvin has over 30 years of experience and has earned numerous life safety awards. But most importantly, he is a proud native of Durham, North Carolina. 

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Captain Melvin started his career in June of 1994 at the age of 18. Captain Melvin remains a shining example of excellence, driven by his passion and determination to advance the department.​

Corey Mercer

NC’s Deputy Commissioner of Insurance & Chief of Fire Risk Reduction

 

​Corey Mercer is a seasoned fire service professional with 32 years of experience in firefighting, leadership, and education. A U.S. Army veteran, he served two tours in the Middle East and later became Rocky Mount’s first African American Fire Chief, leading the department to a Class 1 ISO rating and maintaining accreditation.

 

Corey holds an M.S. in Administration, a B.S. in Business Management, and an A.A.S. in Fire Protection. Mercer also served as the Fire Chief of Elizabeth City.  He is a graduate of the U.S. Fire Academy Executive Officer Program and has served as a peer assessor for the Center for Public Safety Excellence.  Corey now serves as North Carolina’s Deputy Commissioner of Insurance and Chief of Fire Risk Reduction.  ​

Nancy Miller

Advance Fire Department

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Nancy Miller is a veteran IT professor, AI educator, and innovation leader with more than 30 years of experience in network management, cybersecurity, virtualization and AI Leadership and Governance. She leads AI-powered workforce workshops nationwide, helping professionals use practical AI tools to save time, improve communication, and strengthen training outcomes.

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In addition to her academic work, Nancy has spent over three decades as a volunteer IT Security and Innovation Facilitator for the Advance Fire Department, supporting the fire service through technology modernization, training support, communications, and operational efficiency. A proud fire wife of more than 34 years, she brings a deep understanding of firehouse culture and real-world operational needs. Her work bridges technology and service, helping departments adopt practical, responsible AI solutions that support firefighters at every rank.

Scott Monroe

CEO & Co-founder, Essential Personnel

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Scott is a lifelong public servant, starting his fire service career at age 16 with his Northern Virginia volunteer department. After obtaining a B.S. in Fire Administration, he earned his commission with the United States Marine Corps. He served four years on active duty including a deployment to Marja, Afghanistan in support of OEF 10.1. Transitioning to the USMC Reserve component in 2011, he began his career with the Wilmington (NC) Fire Department. Scott served for seven years with WFD, until 2017 when he helped start a technology company in the transportation industry. In 2020 he founded his own company, Essential Personnel, with a software solution designed to serve the personnel demands of public safety professionals. Scott is currently a Major in the Marine Corps Reserve, serving as an Inspector with the Force Readiness Activation Assessment Program. He has held various logistics, operations and command billets including Company Commander and Battalion Executive Officer. He was also a board member of the 2021 Marine Forces Reserve Staff Non-Commissioned Officer Promotion Board.

Tracy Mosley

NCAFC Deputy Director & IAFC

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Tracy Mosley is a forty-one-year veteran of the North Carolina Fire Service. He began his service as a volunteer with Silver Lake Volunteer Fire Department in 1984, where he currently holds a position on the Board of Directors. Tracy later formed a career with Wilson Fire/Rescue Services, where he worked his way through the ranks—retiring in 2015 as Deputy Fire Chief. He holds an Associate’s Degree in Fire Science Technology from Wilson Technical Community College and a Bachelor’s Degree in Fire Science from Fayetteville State University. He is a Graduate of the National Fire Academy Executive Fire Officer Program. Tracy has remained involved with the fire service across the state, serving as President and Chaplain of the Eastern Carolina Association of Firefighters, as well as President of the NC Association of Fire Chiefs in 2017.  He is currently the Deputy Director of the North Carolina Association of Fire Chiefs, where he manages Educational and Recruitment/Retention Programs for the Association in cooperation with the International Association of Fire Chiefs. In addition, Tracy and his lovely wife Wendy have been lifelong residents of Wilson, NC, and are blessed with two beautiful daughters, Mahayla Mosley & Mackenzie Mosley Watson.

Scott Mullins

Asheville Fire Fighters Association; Professional Fire Fighters and Paramedics of North Carolina

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Chief Len Needham (Retired)

Bahama Fire Rescue

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Joined Bahama Fire Department January 14,1980 at 17years old. Was promoted to Captain in 1983. January 1986 was promoted to Chief. Dropped back to Deputy Chief and President of the board of directors in 1989 as I was moved to working out of town with the electrical company I was working with. Promoted  to Chief in 1997 and served until I retired.  Was blessed to servere on the NCAFC board serving as president in 2012. After leaving the NCAFC board I went on to serve on the SEAFC Board in 2015 and wining the Volunteer Fire Chief of the Year for both NCAFC and SEAFC that same year. Served as President of the SEAFC in 2021. After a very succeful career I retired from Bahama Fire Department January 14, 2023.

Matthew Nolin

Senior Account Executive and Risk Advisor, VFIS of NC

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Matthew Nolin, is a senior account executive and risk advisor with VFIS of North Carolina. His past experience in healthcare administration, emergency medicine/critical care, and education provides for a unique perspective into the emergency service organizations and organizational leadership.  Matthew joined the VFIS of North Carolina team in 2019 and primarily serves the fire service and other emergency service organizations in Eastern North Carolina. 

Ray O'Brocki

American Wood Council

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RAYMOND O’BROCKI, CBO, is the Director of Fire Service Relations for the American Wood Council. Before that he was the Chief Building Official for the City of Rockville, MD. He retired as the Assistant Fire Chief of the Baltimore City Fire Department in 2013. He was appointed fire marshal for Baltimore City in 2008. O’Brocki is the administrator of the Construction Fire Safety Coalition. O’Brocki has served on several building and fire code technical committees. He is an adjunct instructor at the National Fire Academy and has presented at various venues around the U.S. O’Brocki is a graduate of the University of Baltimore School of Law and a licensed attorney. Ray enjoys spending time with his three children on the beach in Fenwick Island, Delaware.

Barry A. Overman

NC State Firefighters' Association

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Barry began his time in the fire service as a member of the Weeksville Volunteer Fire Department in 1987 where he continues to serve today.  He began working full-time for the Elizabeth City Fire Department in 1988, working through the ranks and retiring as Deputy Chief in 2019. He obtained many fire, EMS, and law enforcement certifications throughout his career, and studied Fire Administration at Columbia Southern University. Notably, he took a leave of absence from his Fire Marshal’s position in 1997 to pursue Basic Law Enforcement Certification at the College of the Albemarle to enhance the fire investigations division within the fire department.  His efforts allowed other members of the Fire Marshal’s Office to become BLET Certified. He remains a reserve officer with the Elizabeth City Police Department and the Pasquotank County Sheriff’s Office. A highlight of his career was obtaining two accelerant detection K9’s through the State Farm Arson K-9 program over a 15-year period. K-9 “Ransom” retired with Overman and remains part of the family. Barry served on the Eastern Carolina Firefighters Association board of directors for many years and served as President 2014-2015. In 2012, he was sworn in as a board member of the North Carolina State Firefighters’ Association and served as President for the year 2017. He was elected to serve on the Elizabeth City-Pasquotank School’s Board of Education in 2010 for a 4-year term and was re-elected to a second term in 2014. He served as Board Chair for four years. He was elected to the Pasquotank County Board of Commissioners in 2018 to a four-year term and was re-elected to an additional 4-year term in 2022 and has served as the Vice-Chairman for the past two years. After a brief time of retirement from the fire department, Barry returned to work at the NC Office of State Fire Marshal as Division Chief of the Community Risk Reduction Division. In 2022, he returned to his passion of fire investigations and moved to the Fire Investigation Unit where he is currently an investigator for the Northeast Region. Barry enjoys singing and serves at his local church.  He was the co-founder of the singing group “Step of Faith” in 1996 that traveled and sang at local churches for many years and continues to travel and sing with his family to date. He considers being a dad his single greatest accomplishment. He was blessed in 1997 to meet and marry his wife Jeanette, and together they raised three children: Seth, Brooke, and Joel. His oldest son Seth and wife Ellie made him a grandfather in August of this year with the birth of their first grandbaby, Blair Anderson Overman. Barry was hired by the NCSFA Board to be the new Executive Director in January of 2025 to replace the retiring Director, Tim Bradley.

Ryan Parker

Johnston County Emergency Services

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Barrett Penny

Chief, Garner Fire-Rescue

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Chief Penny started with Garner Fire-Rescue as a firefighter in 1998 before rising through the ranks as a lieutenant then captain. In 2011, he was promoted to battalion chief and served in that role until 2022 when he was elevated to assistant fire chief. As assistant chief, he supervised six battalion chiefs and led a staff of 78 personnel in emergency and daily operations.

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Chief Penny holds an associate’s degree from Columbia Southern University and is a level 3 fire officer with the state of North Carolina.​

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In 2021, Chief Penny became the first member of Garner Fire-Rescue to earn the Medal of Valor. The recognition was for a swift-water rescue conducted while he was temporarily serving as operations chief for the Clayton Fire Department. He also received the Garner Local Heroes Award in recognition of his exceptional leadership and decision-making while commanding high-stress, complex emergency incidents.

Bryant Pitchford

NC Everyone Goes Home Program

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​Bryant Pitchford has 28 years of experience in the fire service in North Carolina with 22 years experience with the NC Forest Service and currently is a Captain with the Littleton Volunteer Fire Department. In 2021, he became an advocate with the Everyone Goes Home program and currently serves as the State Lead Advocate and President of the Halifax County Firefighters Association. During this time, he has been heavily involved in the instruction of fire prevention and education to the public. He has taught leadership classes, fire prevention classes and facilitated kids fire camps. Bryant enjoys making a positive impact on the fire service through leadership training and mentoring fire personnel. He and his wife, Nichole have been married for 20 years and have two children, Connor and Bella.

Matt Poole

Town of Garner

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​Chief Matthew Poole holds an associate degree in fire science from Wilson Technical Community College and a bachelor’s in business leadership and management from William Peace University. In 2020 he was recognized as William Peace Universities Alumni of the year. He is a past president of the Wake County Association of Fire Chiefs, past president of the Rotary Club of Garner, and served two terms on the IAFC Program Planning Committee. 

Paul Rossi

Nine Ten Drones

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Paul Rossi is the Founder of Nine Ten Drones, LLC and Director of Safety & Development at Causey Aviation Unmanned. A U.S. Army veteran and instrument-rated private pilot, Rossi leads advanced UAS programs across North Carolina and nationally. He provides UAS training to public-safety agencies, schools, and commercial operators, and regularly presents at Commercial UAV Expo and other industry conferences.

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Greg Schonauer

Regional Vice President, Transamerica Mid-Market Retirement

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With more than 16 years of experience in the financial services industry, his primary focus is consulting with small-to mid-sized organizations in both the for-profit and not-for-profit sectors to create customized retirement plan solutions. Greg is two-time NAPA Top DC Wingmen (2018, 2019) 

A graduate of The Ohio State University, Greg received a Bachelor of Science in Geographic Information Systems & Analytical Cartography along with a minor from the Fisher School of Business. Greg maintains FINRA securities registrations as well as a life insurance license. 

He makes his home in the Charlotte area with his wife Brandi and their sons Easton, Asher and Bentley.​​

Terence M Sheehy

Dare County EMS

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Terence Sheehy serves as the Deputy Chief of Operations for Dare County EMS, leading daily operations across North Carolina’s Outer Banks. With more than 27 years in emergency services, he brings a dual background in fire and EMS—having started as a firefighter and EMT while still in high school. Over his career, Terence has worked every level of field and leadership service, from the jump seat to the command post, blending frontline credibility with executive perspective.  He is a frequent speaker and instructor across the country, known for blending humor, storytelling, and real-world leadership lessons that resonate with today’s fire and EMS leaders. His signature presentations—Scattered, Smothered, and Covered: Leadership Lessons from the House That Never Closes and El Faro: Leadership Lessons from the Bridge—draw powerful parallels between everyday service and extraordinary leadership.  Terence has presented for ESO Wave, the Texas EMS Conference, the North Carolina EMS Expo, and numerous colleges and leadership programs throughout the Southeast. He holds a Master of Public Administration and remains active in developing the next generation of fire and EMS officers through statewide leadership and education initiatives.​​

Joshua J Smith

Retired Chief Fire Officer

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Dr. Smith is a retired Chief Fire Officer with over twenty-five years of public safety experience, concentrating on emergency services and adult education. He serves as the IAFF Assistant to the General President and leads their Training, Education, and Grants Administration Division including the HazMat Training Department. Dr. Smith holds a master’s in public administration and a Doctorate of Curriculum Design from Appalachian State University. His research focuses on performance management, strategic planning, and public safety promotional assessments, and he speaks nationally on the subjects.  He is a graduate of the National Fire Academy Executive Fire Officer Program.

 

Dr. Smith’s recent appointments include Labor Representative to the Center for Public Safety Excellence Board of Directors, the IFSTA Executive Board, and the Marist College Public Administration Advisory Board. He also serves on the North Carolina Fire and Rescue Commission, Pro Board® Executive Directors, North Carolina Fire and Rescue Certification Board, and Teachers and State Employee’s Retirement System Board. Dr. Smith serves as the Principal Investigator for the IAFF’s hazardous materials related grants from various U.S. federal agencies including the Department of Transportation (DOT), National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), Department of Energy (DOE), Department of Homeland Security-Federal Emergency Management Agency (DHS-FEMA) and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). His responsibilities include managing, overseeing, and administering federal government grant projects, curricula development, training deliveries, and performance measurement.​​

LeRoy Smith

Holly Springs Fire Rescue Department

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Chief LeRoy Smith is the Fire Chief of the Holly Springs Fire Rescue Department and the author of the upcoming leadership book Beneath the White Helmet: Pressure, Purpose, and the Privilege to Lead. With more than three decades of service—from the streets of Prince George’s County to BWI Airport and now one of North Carolina’s fastest-growing departments—Chief Smith is known for his work in mission-driven operations, rapid and disciplined decision-making, and building high-trust organizational culture.  He has presented at major conferences nationwide and holds a Master’s degree in Public Safety Leadership and Administration from Johns Hopkins University. Chief Smith’s leadership philosophy centers on a simple truth: the white helmet isn’t a symbol of authority—it’s a reminder of the responsibility, trust, and privilege to lead others.

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David Swain

Durham Fire Department

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Chief Swain began with the Durham Fire Department on April 1, 1996. He progressed through the ranks attaining a Fire Driver position in November 1999, followed by a Captain position in 2009.  As a Captain, he spent over 4 years as Training Officer and Hazmat Team Coordinator. He was promoted to Battalion Chief in June 2016 where he served until returning to the Training Division as Battalion Chief of Training/EMS Coordinator before returning to Operations as a Division Chief in 2018. In 2024 Chief Swain was promoted to Assistant Chief and placed in charge of the Training and Safety Division. In 2025, Chief Swain was promoted to Deputy Chief of Emergency Operations. 

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Chief Swain is a graduate of the Executive Fire Officer Program at the National Fire Academy and holds the credential of Chief Fire Officer from the Center for Public Safety Excellence.​​

Chantel Thompson

Human Resources Executive

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Chantel Thompson, is a seasoned Human Resources executive with more than a decade of experience transforming public sector workplaces through innovative strategy and inclusive leadership. As the Director of Human Resources for a local government organization, she has led award-winning initiatives in workforce development, employee engagement, and HR technology integration. Her unique background couples public relations expertise, human resources leadership, emotional intelligence training, and a longstanding commitment to community engagement. She is also nationally recognized for her expertise in community relations, having received a prestigious award for developing and implementing Cabarrus Neighborhood Partners—a program that bridges the gap between local government and residents to address community needs and enhance quality of life in Cabarrus County. Chantel is the Owner and Chief HR Consultant of Curated Consulting Group, LLC—a leading provider of customized Human Resources solutions, offering executive and career coaching, compliance consulting, and a full range of HR services tailored to business needs.

Widely respected for her leadership and impact, Chantel was named “Best in HR” by the Charlotte Business Journal, nominated for WFAE’s EQUALibrium Award for her commitment to ensuring equity in her organization’s hiring practices, and honored with the Distinguished Leadership Award from Cabarrus Regional SHRM. She currently serves as Executive Board President of the Boys and Girls Club of Cabarrus County, and President of Cabarrus Regional SHRM. She also holds leadership roles with the Public Sector HR Association and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated Lambda Upsilon Omega Chapter. A proud graduate of North Carolina A&T State University and an active member of The Links Incorporated, Chantel brings a legacy of advocacy, innovation, and collaboration to every role she steps into.

Sheryl Tricocci

NFPA Regional Director

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Sheryl Tricocci is the Regional Director for GA, SC, NC, and DE for the National Fire Protection Association. Sheryl has over 28 years in the life safety/fire protection industry and more than 20 years as an NFPA member! Sheryl is passionate about advancing NFPA’s Mission to eliminate death, injury, property and economic loss due to fire and electrical hazards. Her role as Regional Director is to share that knowledge and passion with industry stakeholders and the public. Sheryl is an NFPA Certified Fire Protection Specialist, holds a NICET IV in Fire Alarm Systems Technologies, a Level II in Inspection, Testing and Maintenance, has a bachelor’s degree in security management and an MBA with a specialization in International Business.

Brian Wade

NC OSFM

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Brian Wade serves as Chief Deputy State Fire Marshal for Fire and Rescue Services with the North Carolina Office of State Fire Marshal, overseeing the divisions of Training, Commission and RPD, Governmental Services, Inspections and Ratings, GIS, Fire Investigations, Community Risk Reduction, and Safe Kids. He also serves on the NFPA Fire Service Training Technical Committee.

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Brian began his fire service career in the early 1990s as a Junior Firefighter with North Lenoir Fire & Rescue. He progressed through the ranks as a firefighter and officer, served on the department’s Board of Directors, and has held the position of Fire Chief since 2010.

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Professionally, Brian joined Wilson Fire & Rescue in 2003, where he served as a company officer before transitioning to the North Carolina Office of State Fire Marshal as a Field Trainer, expanding his impact on fire service training and standards across the state.

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Brian holds the Chief Fire Officer (CFO) designation from the Center for Public Safety Excellence and is a Member of the Institution of Fire Engineers (MIFireE). He is an NC Level III Fire Instructor, Live Burn Instructor, Fire Officer IV, Certified Fire Investigator, and holds multiple state fire service certifications. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Fire and Emergency Services Administration from Fayetteville State University and an Associate of Applied Science in Fire Protection Technology from Wilson Technical Community College.

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Brian and his wife, Jenn, live in Lenoir County, where they are raising their two daughters, Avery and Addison. He enjoys spending time with his family and remains actively involved in his community through his church and continued service with his local volunteer fire department.

Vernon Ward

Office of State Fire Marshal

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Vernon Ward has dedicated more than five decades to the North Carolina fire service. A lifelong resident of Guilford County, he began his career as a volunteer firefighter with the Pinecroft Sedgefield Fire Department in 1974 and went on to serve full-time for over 30 years, including 17 years as fire chief. He currently serves as a Senior Field Inspector with the Office of State Fire Marshal’s Ratings and Inspections Division, where he works with departments across the state to evaluate the department's ISO ratings.  He remains deeply committed to supporting local fire service leaders and strengthening collaboration among departments. His "Looking Inward" workshop encourages honest self-assessment and cooperative planning to help ensure the North Carolina fire service remains strong, sustainable, and prepared for the future.

Paul Watlington

Burlington Fire Department

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Paul Watlington is a 25-year veteran of the fire service. He currently serves as the Assistant Chief of the Burlington Fire Department in NC. He also serves as the Training Officer for the Yanceyville Fire Department in Yanceyville, NC. Paul holds an associate degree in Fire Protection Technology and is currently pursuing a graduate degree in Emergency Management. He also holds the designation of Chief Training Officer with the Center for Public Safety Excellence. Paul is a fire instructor and public speaker with interests in Leadership, Tactics, Strategy, and Development. He is an author and has served as a conference presenter for industry conferences such as FDIC, South Atlantic Fire and Rescue Expo, Smokey Mountain Weekend, Carolina Fire Days, South Carolina Fire Rescue Conference, 1st Due Tactics Conference, and Louisiana Fire Instructor’s Conference.

Chief Robert J. Zoldos II

Durham Fire Department

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Robert J. Zoldos II has served as the Fire Chief of the City of Durham since November 2018. Prior to joining the City of Durham, Chief Zoldos had over 35 years of fire experience including service with Fairfax City, Loudoun County and Fairfax County in Virginia in both the volunteer and career ranks.  With the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department, Chief Zoldos served 25 years and in all ranks up to and including Deputy Fire Chief. Previously, Chief Zoldos had the honor of serving as the Commander of the world-renowned Urban Search and Rescue Team, Virginia Task Force One (VATF-1)/ U.S.A. SAR Team One (USA-1). Chief Zoldos is happily married to his wife of 25 years, Sherri. He is a proud father of two children; Kathleen, 27 and Bobby, 25. He formerly lived in the town of Lovettsville, Virginia, where he served for three terms as Mayor.