Norwood Firefighters Attend Leadership Seminar

NORWOOD, MA - Four Norwood firefighters attended the Norfolk County Fire Chiefs Association leadership seminar at the Bank of Canton auditorium in Canton on Thursday.

The association welcomed over 100 attendees, representing more than 20 fire departments, to the “Step Up and Lead” seminar led by retired Deputy Chief Frank Viscuso. Norwood Fire Chief David Hayes attended with Captain Chris Queally, Lieutenant Joe Mawn and Lieutenant Patrick McDonough.

The Norwood Fire Department has focused on leadership development and grant opportunities since Hayes took command of the department several months ago.

"I strongly encourage our officers and firefighters to attend training sessions like this," Hayes said on Monday. "It exposes them to alternate viewpoints but at the same time it gives them a chance to see that all organizations face similar challenges. It is up to us to have the courage to do the right thing, especially when it is difficult."

He added that it was "well presented and applicable to all levels of management."

Viscuso shared insights on leadership as well as mental health. He discussed leadership traits and skills, as well as ways that firefighters can make a positive impact in their department and their community.

Food and beverages were provided courtesy of Dunkin’ and AT&T First Net. Additionally, the Bank of Canton allowed the association to use its auditorium free of charge.

Viscuso served more than 26 years as a member of the Kearny, New Jersey Fire Department. He is a columnist for Fire Engineering magazine and the author of eight books, including the best-sellers “Step Up and Lead,” “Step Up Your Teamwork” and “Common Valor.”

“The Norfolk County Fire Chiefs Association is committed to providing professional development opportunities to aspiring fire officers in our county," said Chief Jeffrey Lynch, president of the Norfolk County Fire Chiefs Association. "We are very fortunate to have support from local businesses, which allows us to host seminars like this. Thank you to everyone who worked diligently to bring this seminar together and thank you to Deputy Chief Viscuso for sharing his knowledge.”