Texas Fire Chiefs Association

Texas Fire Chiefs Academy – Fall Deadline Reminder

Stay on track for the upcoming Academy! Be sure to complete your required submissions by these important dates:

✅ July 31 – Year 1 Topics Due
✅ August 31 – Year 1 Research Paper Due
✅ August 31 – Year 2 Budget Request Justification Due
✅ September 14 – Year 2 PowerPoint Presentations Due

Don't wait until the last minute - plan ahead and submit your materials on time to stay on track for a successful Academy experience.

Learn more or register: https://www.txfirechiefs.org/texas-fire-chiefs-academy

Great leaders never stop learning from one another.

What leadership skill has made the biggest impact in your department? Was it communication? Trust-building? Decision-making under pressure? Mentorship? Adaptability?

Share your experience in the comments. Your insight could inspire another fire service leader facing a similar challenge.

As communities across Texas gather to celebrate Independence Day with family, friends, and fireworks, we extend our sincere gratitude to the fire chiefs, firefighters, and all first responders who will be serving and protecting their communities throughout the holiday weekend. Your dedication embodies the spirit of public service that helps keep Texas strong.

LIFETIME OF SERVICE RECOGNIZED: The Texas Fire Chiefs Association proudly recognizes Fire Chief Leonard Mikeska of Montgomery County ESD 3 / Lake Conroe Volunteer Fire Department as the recipient of the 2025 Lone Star Achievement Award.

Chief Mikeska’s career spans nearly five decades of dedicated service, including more than 34 years as Fire Chief. From his early days as a junior firefighter to becoming the longest serving Fire Chief in Montgomery County, his leadership has left a lasting mark on both his department and the community he serves.

Under his guidance, the department evolved from a volunteer organization into a highly respected professional agency. His leadership led to expanded stations, modern apparatus, increased staffing, and the development of advanced training capabilities, all while improving the district’s ISO rating to a 2.

Chief Mikeska’s steady leadership has guided his department through growth, change, and challenge, always with a focus on service, accountability, and doing what is right for the community.

His legacy is one of commitment, resilience, and a lifetime of service to others. Congratulations, Chief Mikeska, on this well deserved recognition.