Dr. David Griffin will presenting "In Honor of The Charleston 9: A Study of Change Following Tragedy?" as the keynote on Thursday morning at Firehouse Expo in July.
What will attendees to your program walk away with?
They will leave with a sound example of how an organization that has not been changing and evolving in the fire service can lead to a dangerous operational environment. Furthermore, they will walk away with research from a responder that actually experienced a LODD due to the lack of change and updates and went on to develop empirical research on the topic.
What is the story behind your class?
The June 18, 2007 multiple line-of-duty-death fire in the City of Charleston Fire Department in Charleston, SC. I was the acting engineer on the first-due engine on that tragic day and I will discuss in-depth the changes the department has seen.
Tell us about your time in the fire service.
I have been in the fire service for 10 years in the city I was born and raised in, the City of Charleston, S.C. I have worked my way through the ranks from firefighter, to assistant engineer, to engineer, to instructor, and now captain. I have earned a Bachelor of Science in education from The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina, a Master of Science in executive fire service leadership, and a doctorate of education in organizational leadership and development. I have experienced an organization that has performed three decades of change in a seven year period to bring it up to national best practices. It truly is an amazing story of change and progression.
What has been the highlight of your career?
Going to work every day in the city I was born and raised, I can help the citizens remain safe by training the brothers and sisters I work with in the City of Charleston Fire Department. I am very proud to be a part of the organization, the city, and the lives of all of my co-workers. I am very blessed.
What’s one piece of advice that you can give to Firehouse Expo attendees to make it a great experience?
The 31st Firehouse Expo will take place in Baltimore, MD, July 15-19, at the Baltimore Convention Center. This year's conference offers over 90 education sessions, including hands-on training, in-depth workshops and classroom sessions. Find out more about Firehouse Expo, the exhibitors who will be showcasing their products and learn how to register go to: FirehouseExpo.com.
