Thought Leadership Essay Contest

“Like past essay contests, the submissions this year were very impressive! The thoughts and suggestions highlighted in each write up demonstrate that technology will continue to play a very important role in advancing firefighter safety/well-being. More importantly, the individuals who participated this year demonstrate we have a great group of next generation fire service leaders who will take the profession to higher levels.”

 – Demond Simmons, Deputy Chief, Support Services, Oakland Fire Department

“One of the things I appreciate about the Thought Leadership Essay Contest is that it gives people across the fire service an opportunity to share ideas and challenge some of the ways we’ve always done things. As a judge, it’s been interesting to see the different perspectives and approaches people bring to the same topic. The real value of this contest isn’t just recognizing good writing or innovative ideas, but encouraging conversations from anywhere in our profession that can move the fire service forward.”

 – Oren Bersagel-Briese, Castle Rock Fire Department, Deputy Chief of Operations

“The 2026 Darley/NFFF Thought Leadership Essay Contest has a positive impact by encouraging participants to express their ideas, think critically, and strengthen their writing skills. It provides an opportunity to share meaningful perspectives and build confidence in their ability to address important issues. The contest inspires creativity, promotes learning, and encourages innovative thinking about the future of the fire service. By recognizing participants’ efforts and ideas, it supports personal growth, leadership development, and a commitment to making a difference. Overall, the contest creates a valuable opportunity to share knowledge, inspire positive change, and contribute to a stronger and safer fire service community.”

 – Terri Reid, Baltimore County, EMS Shift Commander

“The Darley Essay Contest provides a valuable opportunity for members of the fire service to share ideas, reflect on their experiences, and contribute to the profession’s future. Its value goes beyond recognizing strong writing; it encourages thoughtful discussion about the challenges facing departments and the communities they serve. Making room for these perspectives helps turn individual lessons into shared learning. That exchange strengthens leadership, preparedness, and service to the public.”

 – Vince Davis, Chief Operating Officer, Statera by Trask Resilience

“The Darley Essay Contest is an exceptional opportunity to encourage critical thinking, professional reflection, and intellectual leadership across the fire service. Having the honour to have served as a judge, I have been genuinely impressed by the quality of the submissions, the diversity of perspectives, and the willingness of participants to challenge conventional thinking. The contest creates space for important conversations about emerging issues, including artificial intelligence, firefighter health and wellness, and the evolving demands of our profession. Perhaps most importantly, it reinforces that the future of the fire service will be shaped not only by operational excellence, but also by our willingness to question, learn, innovate, and share ideas.”

 – Brian McAsey, Deputy Fire Chief, Banff Fire

“This year again, I had the privilege of serving as one of the judges for this contest. This year’s topic was ‘How AI can enhance the Fire Service’. As in previous years, I was very impressed with the insight, knowledge and multiple concepts of the entrees. Their understanding of AI and how it will enhance all areas of the fire service is a reminder of the energy and intellect that sits within their ranks. The entrants took the time to acknowledge the potential, while at the same time identifying some of the fears of AI and how they can be overcome. These men & women are, and will be the leaders that will bring the fire service to the next level of community service. Thank you to the Darley Company for their continued sponsorship. To all who participated, well done. To this year’s winners, Congratulations!”

 – Nick Russo, Assistant Director, Office of Federal Disaster Coordination, FEMA