
How’s your leadership pipeline?
From Better Every Shift by FireRescue1
February 19, 2026 · 39 min · Episode 297
About this episode
Battalion Chief Jesse Schilling discusses the importance of training and resources for firefighters transitioning to leadership roles.
Promotion is not preparation. Firefighters need training to step into the company officer role, just as company officers need guidance for advancing in their careers. Sarasota County (Florida) Battalion Chief Jesse Schilling shares resources that can ease the transition and strengthen company officers’ leadership skills, including the soft skills that can make all the difference with crews. Schilling also digs into some of the biggest challenges and opportunities related to firefighter recruitment, and offers tips for ramping up grassroots strategies. More from Chief Schilling: Back to baseline: Resetting recruitment fundamentals Leadership resources: Company Officers Section This episode of the Better Every Shift Podcast is sponsored by TheFireStore. Learn more about getting the gear you need at prices you can afford by visiting TheFireStore. Email bettereveryshift@firerescue1.com to share your feedback.
People in this episode
Host: FireRescue1
Guest: Jesse Schilling
Topics covered
- leadership development
- firefighter training
- company officer role
- recruitment strategies
- soft skills
- career advancement
Keywords
- leadership pipeline
- firefighter training
- company officers
- recruitment
- soft skills
- career guidance
Sponsors
TheFireStore
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Better Every Shift, FireRescue1
Places: Sarasota County, Florida
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