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Linda Willing

Leading the Team

Linda Willing is a retired career fire officer and currently works with emergency services agencies and other organizations on issues of leadership development, decision-making and diversity management. She was an adjunct instructor and curriculum advisor with the National Fire Academy for over 20 years. Willing is the author of On the Line: Women Firefighters Tell Their Stories and was co-founder of Women in the Fire Service. Willing has a bachelor’s degree in American studies, a master’s degree in organization development and is a certified mediator. She is a member of the FireRescue1/Fire Chief Editorial Advisory Board. Connect with Willing via email.

LATET ARTICLES
Leaders at less-active firehouses must strike a balance between training and downtime for crews
While every situation is different, most people are more receptive to a sympathetic approach than an authoritative command
In one study, “demonstrating respect” was identified as the top leadership quality for creating commitment and engagement among members
How to navigate that time after changes have been made but before the benefits have been realized
While it sometimes makes sense to go along to get along, the lone voice of dissent often provides meaningful insight
While non-fire-specific training can be beneficial, trainers who fail to understand the needs of first responders will lose their interest
The company officer is the first line of defense when debate escalates
Names can describe, categorize and serve as a symbol, but we also need to update them when appropriate
It’s a stressful job, so you need to know how to check in and take care of yourself
We do everything we can in the hope we’re wrong about what is happening to the smallest of victims