TargetSolutions, a Vector Solutions brand that offers operations and training management software for the fire service, and the International Association of Fire Chief’s (IAFC) Volunteer & Combination Officers Section (VCOS) are proud to announce Lee Whitner of South Adams County (Colorado) Fire Department, as the recipient of the 2019 VCOS Training Officer Recognition Award.
2019 VCOS Training Officer Award
As the award winner, Whitner will be recognized during the annual VCOS meeting Aug. 8 during the 2019 Fire-Rescue International (FRI) in Atlanta.
“I’m very excited to receive this award,” Chief Whitner said. “It really highlights the organization’s commitment to training. This wouldn’t happen without the Chief (Bob Monzinga) and line personnel bringing their A-game. This training award really highlights the whole team.”
‘Volunteer Extreme’ training program
Chief Whitner has built a training program that has far exceeded what we expected, or thought possible"
The award honors exemplary conduct and dedication by a training officer. Chief Whitner displayed those qualities at her combination department by developing and implementing several innovative processes and programs, including the ‘Volunteer Extreme’ training curriculum.
“Chief Whitner has built a training program that has far exceeded what we expected, or thought possible,” Deputy Chief Bob Monzingo said. “In her time here, she developed, manages and maintains our training and certifications, leads our safety committee and started an Honor Guard program. She remains actively involved with Colorado Fire Training Officers and contributes a great deal to the fire service in general.”
Volunteer personnel effectiveness
The goal of the “Volunteer Extreme” program is to ensure the effectiveness of the agency’s volunteer personnel who are challenged to complete training due to time constraints. After meeting with her members, she rolled out monthly training explicitly targeted for volunteers.
“The training offers specific topics related to core skills in a setting that ensures the students have the opportunity to train at their pace,” said Monzingo. “This program has received very positive feedback and will help our organization keep the volunteer-reserve component that founded our department.”
“Learn to study” sessions
Chief Whitner conducts “learn to study” sessions to help members prepare for mandatory tests
In addition to the “Volunteer Extreme” program, Chief Whitner conducts “learn to study” sessions to help members prepare for mandatory tests. She also provides “real world” hands-on application techniques to crew members, and helps implement citizen and youth academies, as well as Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT) to help others develop their own programs.
Target Solutions management platform
Chief Whitner also manages her agency’s utilization of the Target Solutions online training management platform. 2019 marks the sixth consecutive year TargetSolutions, and the VCOS have teamed up to present this award, and Chief Whitner joins Captain Chip Everett of Oshtemo Township (Michigan) Fire Department, Assistant Chief Brad Pinsky of Manlius (New York) Fire Department, Deputy Chief Steve Malone of the Manhattan (Ill.) Fire Protection District, Michael Accardo III of the St. Tammany (Louisiana) Fire District 9, and Josh Blum of Loveland-Symmes (Ohio) Fire Department.
