Fire Service Essay Competition returns with artificial intelligence prompt

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Essay Competition opens with AI prompt

Darley has opened the fifth annual Fire Service Thought Leadership Essay Competition in collaboration with the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF), focusing on how artificial intelligence could improve firefighter health, wellness and safety over the next two years.

Darley announced that submissions are now open for the Essay Competition.

The prompt asks fire and rescue personnel to address how artificial intelligence can be applied in operational contexts.

The competition receives over 90 entries each year from firefighters, company officers and chief officers across the country.

Identified areas include incident reporting and staffing models.

The brief also highlights wildfire prediction, roadway risk forecasting and fire-based EMS operations where artificial intelligence tools are already in use.

Essay Competition rules and topic areas

Darley said the competition follows a Tier 3 AI usage standard.

Writers may use generative AI tools to brainstorm, organise thinking and refine outlines.

All final text must be written by the author in their own words.

Any use of artificial intelligence must be disclosed.

Entries may be screened using AI-detection tools.

Suggested topics include virtual and augmented reality staff rides.

Other areas include predictive analytics for wildland and all-hazard incidents.

Further examples include decision-support tools for EMS, hazmat and technical rescue operations, along with fatigue tracking and injury trend analysis.

Essay Competition prizes and comments

Darley Chief Executive Officer & Chairman Paul Darley said: “The people best positioned to shape how AI gets used in the fire service are the ones on shift.

“Sometimes the best ideas in the fire service don’t always make it past the apparatus bay.

“We built this competition because writing is an act of leadership, and we want you to use this platform to spotlight your ideas and create discussion amongst industry peers.”

National Fallen Firefighters Foundation Director of Fire Programs Danny Kistner said: “Artificial intelligence is not a replacement for firefighter judgment; it is a force multiplier for firefighter survivability.

“By combining AI with immersive staff rides, predictive modeling, and resilience-building programs, we can help departments see risk sooner, train with greater realism, and support their people long before and long after the call.

“This directly aligns with the NFFF mission—to honor our fallen by doing everything possible to reduce preventable deaths and injuries.

“We invite you to join this competition and submit your ideas for how AI can further this mission in the fire service.”

Winners receive cash prizes, present at events including the Texas A&M Leadership Conference and FRI and are published by Fire Engineering, Firehouse, CRACKYL and FireRescue1.

The competition was conceived by Garry Briese and is sponsored by Darley in collaboration with the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation.

Darley reports new product launches and supplier recognition

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Darley update outlines spring initiatives

Darley has used its March and April edition of Inside Darley to outline updates on a new data platform, supplier recognition, defence manufacturing activity and product plans for April’s Fire Department Instructors Conference (FDIC).

Paul Darley introduced the issue and said the spring and summer Darley Times newsletter includes a feature on Lee Wise, Darley’s new president, alongside operational updates from across the company.

The update introduces the Darley Data Center at DarleyData.com.

The platform allows fire departments to compare operational data with up to four other departments, including response times, duration on scene and incident categories.

The idea for the platform came from Ed Tiesenga, village trustee at Oak Brook, Illinois, who had questioned his local fire department about response times and related performance information.

The newsletter also reports that Pierce Manufacturing named Darley its supplier of the year for 2025.

Darley linked the award to teams in Chippewa Falls and at its headquarters in Itasca who support those accounts.

Mike Darley, one of six fourth generation family members at the company, is set to manage the Pierce account and Oshkosh accounts alongside other large defence prime contractor relationships.

Darley sets out certification and FDIC plans

The newsletter also outlines Darley’s defence manufacturing activity and its progress with Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC).

Darley said the company was among the first 300 of roughly 60,000 defence manufacturers in the United States to receive the third-party certification required to work with federal government customers.

The update also sets out product plans for FDIC in Indianapolis from 21 to 23 April.

Darley plans to present new wildland equipment at the event, including a wildland pump module and a dual control panel designed for Kubota wildland pumps.

The company also intends to display unmanned aircraft systems, reflecting its involvement in aerial drones, underwater drones and robotic drones, along with counter-drone technology from Dedrone.

Elsewhere in the newsletter, Darley notes that employees and the Chicago Tribune named the company one of the best places to work, following similar recognition from Crain’s Chicago Business and Deloitte in the previous year.

The issue also refers to Darley’s support for The Leadership Podcast as exclusive sponsor for more than five years, noting that the programme’s 500th episode featured Admiral Bill McRaven.

Darley launches Darley Data Center for fire department reporting analysis

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Darley Data Center platform launch

Darley has launched the Darley Data CenterSM, a customised platform designed to help first responders visualise data, identify trends and compare department performance using a proprietary tool that analyses National Fire Incident Reporting System (NFIRS) data.

The company said the platform is accessible at DarleyData.com.

Darley said the platform uses the latest available public NFIRS data through 2024, with 2025 data described as forthcoming.

Darley said it will transition to public National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS) data shortly after it is released.

Darley said the platform will include mapping tools to enable year on year comparisons across NFIRS and NERIS.

Darley Data Center features and data views

Darley listed response times, call volume, incident type and action taken among the data presented through the platform.

Darley also listed a heat map of call location, resource efficiency, staffing levels and annual department trends.

The company said the platform includes a function to compare performance with other departments.

Paul Darley, CEO and Chairman at Darley, said: “We’re incredibly excited to offer this powerful platform as a free service to the first responder community.

“The Darley Data CenterSM helps fire departments dynamically visualize their data and compare performance, providing leaders with actionable insights that support effective, informed operations and resource allocation decisions.”

Darley linked to a video showcasing the Darley Data CenterSM features and capabilities.

Darley to supply rescue and communications gear for Ford Bronco donations

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Darley supports Ford’s Bronco donation programme

Ford has announced a nationwide search to donate five Bronco Badlands models with the Sasquatch Package to under-resourced search and rescue organisations in 2026.

The announcement was made at the Detroit Auto Show.

Two recipients are already confirmed as Kern County Fire and Rescue in California and Teton County Search and Rescue in Wyoming.

Applications are now open for the remaining three vehicles.

Equipment and application details

Ford said it is working with Darley and Public Safety Direct to make the vehicles mission-ready.

The vehicle fit-out may include Starlink satellite connectivity for communications in remote or disaster-impacted areas.

The fit-out may also include integrated drone technology for real-time aerial reconnaissance and situational awareness.

The specification may also include advanced lighting, winches and recovery systems.

Peter Darley, Executive Vice President and COO of Darley, said: “We’re proud to collaborate with Ford because we share a commitment to innovation and supporting those who serve.

“By combining Ford’s legendary vehicles with Darley’s expertise in rescue and communications gear, we’re helping search and rescue teams operate at their best, even in the toughest conditions.”

Kevin Sofen, Technology and Innovation Manager for Darley, added: “Search and rescue teams don’t need complicated technology, they need tools that work every time they show up for work.

“These Broncos are purpose-built with reliable connectivity and integrated rescue capabilities designed specifically for how SAR teams operate.

“It’s a vehicle teams can rely on in demanding conditions, without having to question whether it’s going to hold up when lives are on the line”

Search and rescue organisations interested in applying can find details at the National Association for Search and Rescue (NASAR) webpage.

Darley appoints first non-family President in 118-year company history

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W.S. Darley & Co names Lee Wise President effective 01/01/2026

W.S. Darley & Co has appointed Lee Wise as President, effective 01/01/2026, the company announced on 31/12/2025.

Wise succeeds Paul C. Darley, who has held the President role for 30 years.

Paul C. Darley will continue as Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board.

Wise will report to Paul C. Darley in those roles.

The company said the appointment follows a succession plan that has been in progress for more than a decade.

Succession plan details and continuity

Wise currently serves as Chief Financial Officer at Darley.

The company said his promotion makes him the first non-family member to serve as President in 118 years.

Darley said Wise has industry experience from Rockwell-Collins and Brunswick.

Paul Darley, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board, said: “Our succession plan has been in progress for over a decade.

“Lee brings the perfect blend of corporate and defense experience, coupled with a passion for driving growth.

“His leadership style and ethical approach align perfectly with our professional family culture,”

Board and family support for Wise

Darley said Wise has the support of the Darley Board, the management team and the Darley family.

Paul Darley, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board, said: “He has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to our mission and to the communities we serve.

“The Darley family, most notably our fourth generation, stands united behind Lee as he steps into this important role.”

Audrey Darley Welch, Vice President of Defense Supply Chain, added: “All fourth-generation family members working in the business are fully united in our support of Lee.

“His outside perspective and proven leadership will play a critical role as we continue to professionalize the organization and pursue our next phase of growth.”

Responsibilities and next steps for operations

As President, Wise will oversee daily operations, drive innovation and strengthen relationships with customers, partners and employees, according to the company.

Lee Wise, President, commented: “I am honored to step into the role of President at Darley, and deeply grateful for the trust placed in me by our Board of Directors, shareholders, and colleagues.

“Their confidence inspires me, and I am committed to honoring our values and driving meaningful progress together,”

Darley said Wise lives in Lincolnshire, Illinois with his wife, Nicole and their three children.

The company directed readers to its Inside Darley video series for more details.

Darley completes CMMC Level 2 assessment for Controlled Unclassified Information

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Darley completes CMMC Level 2 certification

Darley has achieved Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Level 2 after an independent assessment, confirming compliance with current US Department of War cybersecurity requirements for handling Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).

The company announced the result on Monday 8 December 2025 from Itasca, Illinois, US.

According to Darley, the certification followed a detailed review by a Certified Third-Party Assessment Organization (C3PAO).

The company supplies defence, fire and emergency services equipment to government and other customers.

Darley stated that CMMC Level 2 is now required for bidding on many US defence contracts as of November 2025.

CMMC framework and Darley security controls

Darley reported that CMMC 2.0 Level 2 confirms it has implemented all 110 security controls defined in National Institute of Standards and Technology Special Publication 800-171 (NIST SP 800-171).

These controls cover the protection of CUI across systems, processes and policies.

The company said the certification places Darley among a limited set of defence contractors that have completed the Level 2 C3PAO assessment process.

Darley cited figures indicating that 575 companies have reached this stage to date.

The company added that more than 7,000 organisations have instead recorded a Level 1 self-assessment score in the Supplier Performance Risk System (SPRS).

CMMC 2.0 Level 2 is designed for contractors that process, store or transmit CUI on behalf of the US government.

Customer confidence and Darley’s cyber posture

Darley stated that the CMMC Level 2 result is intended to give defence customers assurance about how it manages sensitive information.

The company linked the certification to its wider approach to risk mitigation in the defence supply chain.

It said the process required investment in people, processes and technology to maintain a secure operating environment.

According to Darley, the use of an accredited C3PAO provided independent confirmation of its readiness for evolving Department of War expectations.

The company added that the certification is now a core element of its position as a supplier of defence, fire and emergency services equipment to US government partners.

Leadership reaction to CMMC Level 2 outcome

Paul Darley, President & CEO of Darley, said: “Achieving CMMC Level 2 certification is a significant milestone for our company and our customers.

“It demonstrates our dedication to protecting sensitive information and meeting the highest standards of cybersecurity.”

Darley stated that the certification is intended to support continuity of service for existing government partners.

The company added that it also opens access to future tenders where CMMC Level 2 is a stated prerequisite.

It indicated that CMMC compliance will remain an ongoing focus as Department of War cybersecurity mandates continue to develop.

National essay contest highlights mental health insights across the fire service

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Darley and NFFF announce 2025 essay contest winners

Darley, in partnership with the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF), has announced the winners of the 2025 Fire Service Thought Leadership Essay Contest.

The contest, titled Understanding the “Why” Behind Mental Health Challenges in the Fire Service, is now in its fourth year.

According to Darley, the competition invited firefighters nationwide to examine the underlying causes of mental health challenges within the profession.

The company said this year’s contest received 85 entries.

Paul Darley, President and Chief Executive Officer of Darley, said: “Understanding the ‘why’ behind these challenges is crucial if we want to create meaningful, lasting solutions.”

“This competition gives firefighters and thought leaders a unique platform to share insights that can drive real change.”

“With 85 entries submitted, it’s clear the fire service is ready to engage in this critical conversation and lead the way forward.”

Focus on understanding root causes of mental health

The contest aimed to identify the factors that shape firefighter mental health challenges beyond the immediate demands of the role.

Darley said the essays were evaluated across four weighted criteria.

These included the specificity and viability of proposed solutions, the potential impact on the fire service, the quality of writing and a category for “intangibles” such as courage and originality.

According to the company, these measures ensured that entries were assessed for both their practical and reflective contributions.

The initiative builds on Darley’s continued collaboration with NFFF to encourage open discussion and evidence-based approaches to firefighter wellbeing.

Contest winners recognised for leadership and insight

Darley and NFFF have named five winners in this year’s competition.

First place went to Captain Marc Wysocki of Sheffield Volunteer Fire Department in Massachusetts.

Second place was awarded to retired Fire Chief Marc Revere of Mountain View and Monterey Park Fire Departments in California.

Third place went to retired Deputy Fire Chief and current Fire Commissioner John Murphy of Eastside Fire and Rescue in Washington.

The first runner up was Deputy Fire Chief Stephen Lindsey of Palo Alto Fire Department in California.

The second runner up was Shawn McKerry, Dean of the Lakeland College Emergency Training Center in Alberta, Canada.

Victor Stagnaro, Chief Executive Officer of NFFF, said: “Our strength as a fire service has always been in how we show up for each other.”

“This competition is about more than awareness — it’s about creating solutions together.”

“By sharing ideas and experiences, we can move upstream, address the root causes of mental health challenges, and build a culture where well-being is part of who we are in the fire service.”

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

The 2025 Fire Service Thought Leadership Essay Contest demonstrates how structured reflection within the sector can inform strategies for improving mental health support.

For fire and rescue chiefs, training officers and department leaders, the contest’s focus on identifying root causes of psychological stress offers practical insight for developing prevention and wellness programmes.

For policymakers and mental health professionals working with emergency services, the initiative provides evidence of growing engagement with the systemic and cultural factors affecting firefighter wellbeing.

By linking first-hand experiences with solution-oriented analysis, the competition adds to the ongoing conversation about operational resilience and the conditions that support long-term mental health in high-pressure environments.

Darley launches uncrewed systems hub for NDAA-compliant drones

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Darley unveils website section for uncrewed systems

Darley has announced the launch of a dedicated section on its website highlighting uncrewed systems and related solutions.

According to Darley, the new page at darley.com/uncrewed-systems features drones and related equipment sourced from industry partners in the United States.

The company stated that the portfolio includes Blue UAS Cleared and National Defence Authorisation Act (NDAA)-compliant platforms.

It explained that the content is designed to assist customers in finding solutions that meet Department of Defence (DoD) standards.

The site also provides access to Darley’s team of uncrewed systems specialists.

Product compliance and standards focus

Darley reported that the equipment listed on the site meets legal and policy requirements relevant to the DoD.

It said this includes compliance with applicable laws, regulations and operational standards.

The company added that the listings feature products that support operational integrity and national security objectives.

It advised that all platforms on the hub are manufactured in the United States.

Customer support and procurement process

Darley explained that the online hub is intended to simplify procurement for customers seeking compliant uncrewed systems.

It stated that the section allows buyers to review product options in one location.

The company added that the resource is aimed at helping users source equipment from suppliers with established compliance credentials.

It noted that the page includes direct links to its specialist team for additional guidance.

Statement from Darley leadership

Peter Darley, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, said: “Our goal is to simplify the procurement process and provide our customers with access to the most reliable and forward-thinking uncrewed systems available.”

“This new section reflects our commitment to innovation and supporting our partners with the tools they need to succeed.”

Operational applications of uncrewed systems

Darley said the equipment featured on the site can be used in defence, fire and emergency service operations.

It added that the range is intended for agencies requiring compliant and reliable aerial platforms.

The company stated that applications could include incident assessment, reconnaissance and operational support.

It explained that the listed platforms are suited to both training and live deployments.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

The launch of Darley’s uncrewed systems hub is relevant for agencies using drones in operational planning and incident response.

It provides a single location to identify platforms meeting Blue UAS and NDAA compliance requirements.

The resource offers a reference point for equipment that aligns with defence and security standards.

It also gives access to specialists who can advise on selection and integration into existing workflows.

Darley launches uncrewed systems hub for NDAA-compliant drones: Summary

Darley has launched a dedicated uncrewed systems section on its website.

The hub is located at darley.com/uncrewed-systems.

It features drones from US-based suppliers.

All platforms are Blue UAS Cleared and NDAA compliant.

The equipment meets Department of Defence standards.

The site is designed to simplify procurement processes.

It provides direct access to Darley’s uncrewed systems experts.

Peter Darley is the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer.

He said the section supports partners with the tools they need to succeed.