Fired Up: Cultivating a Strong Culture and Climate in today's Fire Service

Date: Thursday, August 28th 2025Location: Valdosta Performing Arts Center 3101 Barack Obama Blvd. Valdosta, Ga 31602Time: 08:30 AM – 5:30 PM

Join us for a full day of impactful training, discussion, and inspiration tailored to those who serve in the fire service. This symposium brings together four distinguished fire service leaders from across Georgia to challenge complacency, ignite passion, and strengthen leadership at every level of your department. Whether you’re a new recruit, seasoned veteran, or command staff, this is an opportunity to reflect, recharge, and recommit to the mission.

🕘 09:00 AM – 10:00 AM"The Consequences of Mediocrity"Lt. Brian Mcree – Bulloch County Fire RescueAn eye-opening session confronting the hard truths about complacency, entitlement, and the damaging effects of putting ourselves before the citizens we serve. A wake-up call for all who wear the badge.

🕙 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM"Who is Really Ruining the Fire Service?"Capt. Payton Owens – Dekalb County Fire RescueThis interactive class takes a deep dive into cultural and operational challenges within the fire service. Explore the roles of every rank in shaping the future, and walk away with actionable leadership tools to enhance your team and department.

🕜 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

Lunch Break

🕜 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM"Backwards Hats, Beatdowns, and Brotherhood"Chief Ian Shulte – Pooler Fire RescueA raw and reflective session for young officers. Through personal failures and growth, Chief Shulte shares philosophical insights and leadership lessons on maximizing your impact and navigating the job with purpose.

🕞 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM"The Nuts and Bolts"Chief David Rhodes – Atlanta Fire DepartmentDrawing inspiration from the Georgia Smoke Diver final drill, Chief Rhodes presents a deep exploration of core firefighter values: competence, honor, integrity, mental toughness, servant leadership, and commitment. Discover what these principles mean to your “why” in the fire service.

• Firefighters of all ranks
• Company Officers
• Chiefs and Executive Staff
• Training Officers
• Recruits and Cadets

Don't miss this chance to grow alongside some of Georgia’s most respected fire service leaders. Seating is limited—register today!

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

VHS Performing Arts Center, 3101 Barack Obama Boulevard, Valdosta, United States