Fire Chief Hampton Williams of the Southern Pines Fire/Rescue Department recently participated in the 20th Executive Fire Officer Program Graduate Symposium.

It was held March 28-30 at the U.S. Fire Administration's (USFA) Nation Fire Academy (NFA) in Emmitsburg, Md.

This annual event brought together more than 200 senior fire officials from across the United States and Canada for three days to discuss various facets of fire service leadership.

Presentation topics ranged from fire executives' role in homeland security to that of learning from representatives of Delta Airlines regarding their safety culture. Additional presentations examined a range of topics, including exercising leadership in times of crises, participating in and understanding the relationship of public policy within the political process, leadership and technology.

The symposium also featured peer presentations of Outstanding Applied Research Projects by the authors. A number of special presentations and events recognized and celebrated this milestone event.

At the symposium banquet March 29, the four 2007 Outstanding Applied Research Awards were presented by USFA Administrator Gregory B. Cade, and alumni who completed the EFPO in the prior year were also recognized. The U.S. Fire Administration's NFA serves as the national focal point for advancing the professional development of fire service and rescue personnel through education and training programs.

Williams graduated from the NFA's Executive Fire Officer Program in 2006. This prestigious academic program requires senior fire officials to meet stringent professional criteria for selection. The four-segment, advanced level program provides participants with a broad perspective on major aspects of fire administration. Participants also must complete Applied Research Projects in their local organizations.