Chatham County Fire Department continues to invest in the future of the fire service by hosting its fourth Company Officer Academy March 22-27, 2026. This is a premier leadership development program designed to prepare current and emerging officers for the challenges of modern fireground and organizational leadership.

Led by Training Chief Joshua Anderson, the academy brings together firefighters and officers seeking to sharpen their command presence, decision-making, and leadership skills both on and off the emergency scene.

This year’s academy is expected to attract company officers and aspiring leaders from across the Southeast, including departments throughout Georgia, South Carolina, Tennessee, and North Carolina, reinforcing Chatham County Fire’s growing reputation as a regional hub for professional fire service training.

The five-day program focuses on the critical responsibilities of the company officer.  Often described as the backbone of the fire service. Participants engage in intensive instruction covering leadership principles, tactical decision-making, communication, accountability, and real-world scenario-based learning designed to mirror the pressures officers face every day.

Since its inception, the Company Officer Academy has emphasized practical leadership rooted in experience, accountability, and service to community and crew alike. By hosting the academy for a fourth time, Chatham County Fire continues to demonstrate its commitment to developing confident, capable leaders who can guide their teams safely and effectively in high-risk environments.

“Strong departments are built on strong company officers,” said Training Chief Joshua Anderson. “This academy provides the tools, perspective, and leadership mindset needed to lead firefighters successfully while protecting the communities we serve.”

Beyond skill development, the academy fosters collaboration, and professional relationships among departments across state lines, strengthening regional cooperation and shared standards of excellence within the fire service.

As Chatham County Fire continues to expand training opportunities and leadership development initiatives, the Company Officer Academy stands as a cornerstone program, preparing today’s firefighters to become tomorrow’s leaders.