Bill Webb recognised for fire service leadership at Washington symposium

by Americas - Featured NewsFeatured NewsPeople

Bill Webb award announcement and symposium details

Bill Webb received the Mason Lankford Fire Service Leadership Award and the Firefighter Cancer Support Network (FCSN) received the Senator Paul S. Sarbanes Fire Service Safety Leadership Award at the 36th Annual National Fire and Emergency Services Symposium in Washington, D.C., on March 19, 2026.

The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF), the Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI) and Motorola Solutions announced the Mason Lankford award recipient, and the NFFF, CFSI, VFIS and UL’s Fire Safety Research Institute confirmed the Sarbanes award recipient.

More than 1,500 leaders in fire and emergency services attended the symposium to network, discuss current challenges and opportunities and honour those recognised by the organisations.

Bill Webb and the Mason Lankford award

Jointly sponsored by CFSI and Motorola Solutions, the Mason Lankford Fire Service Leadership Award recognises public safety leaders for work linked to prevention, mitigation and emergency response.

Bill Webb, Vice Chair of the Board of Directors at the NFFF and former Executive Director of CFSI, spent three decades leading CFSI and advocating for federal support for the fire service and for the health and safety of fire and emergency services personnel.

During his time at CFSI, Webb worked with six presidential administrations and congressional members on joint fire service positions tied to major legislation.

His work contributed to the creation of the Assistance to the Firefighters Grant program, the expansion of the Public Safety Officers’ Benefits program and the establishment of the federal First Responder Network Authority.

Troy Markel, Chair of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation Board of Directors, said: “Bill Webb’s steadfast dedication and passion for the fire and emergency services community exemplifies the impact and leadership of Mason Lankford.

“Bill has made a lasting impact on those who serve, meeting challenges head-on while always keeping the future of fire service programs in mind.

“His commitment extends beyond the profession, as he continues to support the families of our Fire Heroes.

“I’m proud to serve alongside him on the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation Board of Directors.”

Firefighter Cancer Support Network recognised for report

Co-sponsored by CFSI and NFFF with support from VFIS and UL’s Fire Safety Research Institute, the Senator Paul S. Sarbanes Fire Service Safety Leadership Award recognises a public safety organisation for contributions to firefighters’ health and safety.

The Firefighter Cancer Support Network received the award for its report, Doing it Right: Reducing Cancer in the Fire Service.

Developed with fire service leaders and cancer researchers, the programme sets out how to reduce occupational cancer risks faced by firefighters.

It provides steps to limit exposure and support long-term occupational health.

Victor Stagnaro, Chief Executive Officer of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, said: “Our nation’s firefighters put their lives on the line every day to protect our communities.

“FCSN’s ‘Doing It Right’ report gives them the tools to reduce those risks and safeguard their health over the long term.

“With innovative programs like this, we can reduce the invisible threat of cancers, strengthen firefighter safety, and support those who serve through education.

“We are proud to recognize FCSN with this well-deserved award.”

More information about the Mason Lankford Fire Service Leadership Award and the Senator Paul S. Sarbanes Fire Service Safety Leadership Award is available at cfsi.org/awards.

Bill Webb ends 30-year tenure leading CFSI and advancing US fire services

by Americas - Breaking NewsBreaking NewsPeople

Bill Webb announces retirement from CFSI after 30 years

The Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI) has announced that Executive Director Bill Webb will retire on Wednesday 31 December 2025 after 30 years in the role.

Webb shared the news during a reception attended by members of the CFSI National Advisory Committee and long-time associates.

In his remarks, Webb said: “A friend of mine recently summed up his career by saying you never have to work a day in your life if you enjoy what you’re doing.

“For the most part, those words describe how I feel about my work.

“I did not look at my days in the office as work, but more as an opportunity to serve others and by doing so, contribute a little something to the safety of our great nation.”

Leadership through six Administrations

During his tenure, Webb worked with six presidential Administrations and ten United States Fire Administrators.

CFSI said his contributions included the creation of the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program in 2000, support for the United States Fire Administration and National Fire Academy, and continued advocacy for fire safety and prevention.

He also maintained close relationships with members of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus, helping to preserve its bipartisan approach to advancing fire and emergency service issues.

According to CFSI, these efforts have shaped legislative engagement on key fire service priorities for more than two decades.

Estepp praises Webb’s legacy

CFSI President Jim Estepp acknowledged Webb’s leadership, quoting former US President Harry Truman: “It’s amazing what you can accomplish if you don’t care who gets the credit.”

Estepp said: “At times a quiet force, Bill has undoubtedly proven himself as a pivotal fire service leader over the past 30 years, influencing important issues in Washington, DC, that have greatly benefited our nation’s fire and emergency services.

“We will miss his leadership.”

Michaela Campbell appointed as successor

Estepp confirmed that Michaela Campbell, currently CFSI Director of Government Affairs, will succeed Webb as Executive Director.

Campbell has previous experience working in Congress for Senator Susan Collins, as well as serving as a lobbyist and legislative assistant.

Estepp said: “Throughout the years, Michaela has demonstrated herself to be a strong leader and effective voice for our nation’s fire services.

“I am confident that she will continue the legacy of strong leadership set by Bill Webb as our next Executive Director.”

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

The leadership change at CFSI marks a major transition for US fire service policy engagement.

Bill Webb’s tenure coincided with key legislative milestones, including the establishment of the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program, which has provided funding to departments nationwide for training, equipment and safety improvements.

For senior officers, policymakers and association representatives, the appointment of Michaela Campbell ensures continuity in federal advocacy for fire and emergency services.

Her background in congressional affairs and lobbying positions her to maintain CFSI’s established role as a bridge between legislators and the fire service community.