CRFD personnel once again stood out during the annual leadership conference of the South Carolina State Association of Fire Chiefs. Yet the major highlight for the weekend was CRFD Fire Chief Aubrey D. Jenkins being sworn in as the new president of the organization.
Fire chiefs from across the Palmetto State gathered in Myrtle Beach for the conference during the weekend of January 9, 2021. Originally scheduled for last September the annual event had to be pushed back due to the ongoing threat of the COVID-19 Pandemic.
Taking the mission ahead
“This is a truly a great honor for me and a major highlight of my more than 40 years working in the South Carolina fire service,” Chief Jenkins.
“Our organization has always had the mission to grow and motivate fire chiefs and officers working in all areas. As the new head of the organization, I look forward to working with members of our executive board to collectively face challenges and bring our successes to new heights in the coming year.”
Fire Chief Jenkins’ served as 1st Vice President of the organization beginning in 2019
Fire Chief Jenkins’ recent advancement in the association came after he served as 1st Vice President of the organization beginning in 2019. Before that, he was the organization’s 2nd Vice President.
Recognition for his service
“So very proud of our Chief,” said Columbia City Manager Teresa Wilson, “He is perfect to serve as President of the SC Fire Chiefs Association, as his passion for the profession and love of community will always guide his leadership platform.”
“First, I want to congratulate Chief Jenkins on the outstanding recognition of his exemplary career in public safety as he has been honored as the new president of the South Carolina State Fire Chiefs Association, and the historic nature of his role as the first African-American assigned this responsibility,” said Columbia Mayor Steve Benjamin.
“Additionally, I want to thank him for his years of service to our Columbia community, beginning as a firefighter in 1979 and serving as fire chief for ten years.”
Educational program
Members of the Columbia-Richland Fire Department would also have a role in promoting education during the annual conference.
Battalion Chief David Laird and Battalion Chief Philip Yarchuk led a 3-day Battalion Chief Academy focused on strategies and tactics for firefighters working in command roles. This was their third time leading the course.