EMMITSBURG, Md. — After over 40 years in the fire service and several years of dedicated leadership at the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF), John Tippett, director of Fire Programs, has announced his retirement, effective Dec. 20, 2024.
Since joining the Foundation in April 2018, John has been instrumental in advancing firefighter safety and wellness, spearheading numerous innovations while upholding the legacy of the 16 Firefighter Life Safety Initiatives established 20 years ago, the NFFF stated in a press release.
During his tenure, John’s leadership and vision significantly advanced the NFFF’s mission to reduce line-of-duty deaths and injuries, the NFFF said. He played a pivotal role in developing innovative safety programs, creating essential training resources, and strengthening connections across the fire service community.
Some of the key accomplishments under John’s leadership include:
- Creation of the Uniformed Support Groups, providing essential peer support to fire service leaders and coworkers following line-of-duty deaths.
- Development of staff rides for structural fires, offering in-depth lessons from historical incidents.
- Launching multiple training programs through the Fire Hero Learning Network, enhancing online learning for fire service professionals.
- Strengthening connections with the wildland fire service to address unique safety challenges.
- Enhancements to the Taking Care of Our Own program, providing vital support during times of loss.
- Establishing the “Day of Leadership” seminars, fostering professional growth across the fire service.
