Undisclosed Agents Podcast #22 Eric Wheaton - V.E.S Vetted, Engaged, Savage
Mar 25, 2024
auto_awesome
Guest Eric Wheaton, 17-year fire service veteran, discusses optimizing firefighter training, open-mindedness in the fire service, mentoring, truck operations, and leadership development. He emphasizes continuous improvement, communication, and learning from diverse perspectives within the fire service community.
Embrace continuous learning and diverse perspectives in the fire service for personal and professional growth.
Implement structured training progression starting from low intensity to optimize skill development.
Recognize the value of fire service mentors through a mentorship book featuring industry leaders.
Prioritize training as a catalyst for organizational change and improved department performance.
Foster a culture of collaboration and adaptability by leveraging new knowledge and mentorship initiatives.
Deep dives
Being Informed and Open-Minded in the Fire Service
Acknowledging the importance of being informed and open-minded in the fire service, the podcast episode emphasizes the need for firefighters to expand their knowledge beyond traditional topics. It highlights the value of staying updated on industry leaders, mentorships, and diverse perspectives within the fire service. Encouraging a shift towards valuing training as a foundation for growth and cultural change within departments.
Implementing a Linear Progression Training Approach
Advocating for a structured linear progression training approach, the episode promotes starting with minimal intensity levels and gradually increasing complexity to optimize learning retention and skill development. Drawing parallels to workout routines, the method focuses on systematically raising proficiency levels through deliberate practice and controlled intensity variations.
Recognizing Fire Service Mentors
Emphasizing the significance of fire service mentors, the discussion revolves around the creation of a mentorship book featuring influential figures in the industry. The book aims to provide insights into notable individuals, their contributions, and expertise, serving as a valuable resource for firefighters seeking guidance and inspiration.
Fostering a Culture of Continued Learning
Highlighting the ongoing culture shift in fire departments towards embracing continuous learning and professional development, the episode underscores the accessibility of training resources and industry leaders. Encouraging departments to prioritize training as a catalyst for organizational change and improved performance.
Promoting Collaboration and Training Transformation
Encouraging a collaborative approach to training transformation in the fire service, the episode stresses the impact of embracing new knowledge, mentorship, and open-mindedness within departments. By leveraging the era of increased training accessibility and information sharing, the focus is placed on fostering a culture of continuous improvement and adaptability.
Generational Gap in the Fire Department
The fire department faces a generational gap as older members retire rapidly after long careers, leading to a shift to a much younger average member age. This transition causes clashes between different generations due to varying approaches to work and career stages.
Transition Towards a Younger Fire Department
The department observes a shift towards hiring younger individuals due to retirements, creating a focus on training and developing a younger workforce. The younger hires are influenced by the dedication and training efforts of experienced colleagues, fostering a more proactive and engaged atmosphere within the department.
Cultural Shifts Through Training and Mentorship
Increased emphasis on training and mentorship initiatives within the department has sparked a positive cultural shift. Older members, previously disengaged, have been reinvigorated by newfound enthusiasm and dedication among younger colleagues, leading to a more collaborative and progressive work environment.
Leadership Growth in the Fire Service
The speaker reflects on personal growth as a company officer, transitioning from a self-focused approach to one centered on team building and mentorship. Learning to balance personal development with leading by example, the speaker emphasizes the importance of setting high standards and fostering a positive work culture through dedication and mutual respect.
Eric Wheaton is a 17 year veteran of the fire service and currently serves as a truck lieutenant for Winter Park (FL) Fire Department. Eric is the Owner of VentEnterSearch, LLC. He also serves as an advisory board member on the UL-FSRI Size-up and search & rescue study. Eric has been an instructor at conferences all over the country. This year at FDIC he will be teaching his “Can confidence” hands on class, if you’re heading to Indy in April be sure to sign up. This was an excellent conversation with someone who has an undeniable passion for this craft, and has most certainly helped me along my journey. We have included in the show notes a link to Eric’s website vententersearch.com an amazing website full of information compiled from all over the fire service, if you haven’t seen it definitely go check it out. We have also included a link to Erics book of mentors he put together and we discuss during the podcast. Definitely give it a look and start adding to your own.
