Fire Service Assessment Centers: How to Prepare and Succeed

What should firefighters expect from an assessment center, and how can they prepare for promotion? Host Lisa Baker, Women in Fire's Southwest trustee, welcomes retired Lieutenant Heidi Simon of South Metro Fire Rescue in Colorado, to explain the fire service assessment center process. They discuss how assessment centers evaluate leadership, communication, conflict management, incident command, and decision making through practical exercises and simulations. The conversation also covers building a study plan, developing leadership skills before promotion, practicing active listening, and using feedback to improve performance. For firefighters pursuing promotion, this episode offers practical guidance on preparing for an assessment center and demonstrating the skills needed to succeed as an officer. This episode is brought to you by The Fire Store: TheFireStore.com