Exciting news from the Asheville Fire Department: Battalion Chief Joy Ponder has been awarded a scholarship to the Fire Service Executive Development Institute, a year-long program designed to advance the leadership development of firefighters serving at the top of their field. Ponder is a graduate of the four-year National Fire Academy Executive Fire Officer Program and in 2012, became the department’s first female Battalion Chief.
Full announcement from the AFD below:
The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) announced that Joy Ponder, Battalion Chief, has been accepted into the 2014 session of the Fire Service Executive Development Institute (FSEDI). Now in its second year, the FSEDI is a year-long leadership-development program developed by the IAFC to provide new and aspiring chiefs with the tools they need to advance and have successful and productive careers. Chief Ponder has been awarded a scholarship which will cover expenses associated with travel for three sessions to be held in Northern Virginia during the coming year.
Chief Ponder started with the Asheville Fire Department in 1998. She has her Associates Degree (AB Tech), Bachelor’s Degree (Mars Hill College) and a Master’s Degree (UNC-Greensboro). During her tenure she has received numerous certificates and trainings including Executive Fire Officer (National Fire Academy), Fire Officer III (State of NC), Advanced Professional FF (NC), Chief Fire Officer Designation (Center for Public Safety Excellence) and Fire Officer Designation (CPSE).
“Joy Ponder shows leadership qualities necessary to move the Asheville Fire Department forward today and into the future,” said Chief Scott Burnette. “I am grateful that the IAFC is able to help enhance her leadership abilities and provide her the tools she needs for a successful career as a fire service leader through the Fire Service Executive Development Institute.”
The FSEDI is made possible through a grant by the Motorola Solutions Foundation’s Public Safety and Security Institute.
The IAFC represents the leadership of firefighters and emergency responders worldwide. IAFC members are the world’s leading experts in firefighting, emergency medical services, terrorism response, hazardous materials spills, natural disasters, search and rescue, and public safety legislation. Since 1873, the IAFC has provided a forum for its members to exchange ideas, develop professionally and uncover the latest products and services available to first responders.