Washington Fire Chiefs

07/15/2026

The Washington Fire Chiefs (WFC) is officially accepting speaker proposals for our 2027 Annual Conference. This premier event will bring together fire service leaders and chiefs from across the region to share insights, discuss evolving industry trends, and explore innovative leadership strategies.

Event Details
-Location: Wenatchee, WA
-Dates: May 24–27, 2027
-Host: Washington Fire Chiefs Association (WFC)

We invite industry experts, seasoned leaders, and innovative thinkers to submit educational session proposals. We are specifically looking for presentations that address cutting-edge leadership, legal updates, budgetary strategies, labor relations, and health and safety within the fire service. Don't miss this opportunity to share your expertise and shape the future of fire service leadership.

Share your prosposal through our form:
https://washingtonfirechiefs.member365.com/publicFr/form/index/54b8fa9a50ff84bd994cb5b714fd9bdc929a2f6c

06/01/2026

🚨 TRAFFIC ADVISORY - EVERETT FIRE PROCESSION🚨

Today, Monday, June 1, Everett Fire will be conducting a procession from South Everett to North Everett as we es**rt Tom Lyons and his family. Tom, Everett Fire's Master Mechanic, unexpectedly passed away on Thursday after more than 33 years of service.

The procession is expected to begin at approximately 12:00 p.m. and conclude by approximately 12:30 p.m. Travel times may vary slightly. Motorists should expect temporary traffic delays along the route, primarily on northbound Evergreen Way, with a few exceptions.

Motorists traveling along the route are asked to safely move to the right and allow the procession to pass. The procession will be es**rted by Everett Police.

Community members who wish to pay their respects today are welcome to gather on public sidewalks near the following locations:

📍 Fire Station 6
9520 Evergreen Way
(The procession will pass northbound on 4th Ave W behind the station.)

📍 Fire Station 1
3619 Rucker Ave
(The procession will pass northbound.)

📍 Everett Fire Headquarters
2801 Oakes Ave
(The procession will pass northbound.)

We appreciate the community's patience and support as we honor Tom's dedicated service to Everett Fire and the community he proudly served.

As we continue to support Tom's family during this difficult time, information regarding services and opportunities to honor Tom's life will be shared when available.

05/20/2026

05/19/2026

05/06/2026

The Washington Fire Chiefs are heartbroken for Eric’s family and agency. He was a vital part of our legislative team for years, and we are grateful for his service to the WFC.

The Valley Regional Fire Authority (VRFA) is deeply saddened to share the passing of Eric Robertson, who served as the agency’s founding Administrator and was instrumental in establishing the VRFA as Washington State’s first Regional Fire Authority.

Eric retired following a distinguished 36-year career in public safety, including 12 years with the VRFA. He played a leading role in bringing together the communities of Algona, Auburn, and Pacific under a unified regional fire authority - an effort that required vision, collaboration, and a willingness to think differently about how fire and emergency services could be delivered.

Under his leadership, the VRFA became a model for regional service delivery, grounded in strong governance, financial stability, and a clear strategic direction. He was known for building a sound foundation that other regional fire authorities emulated, then and to this day.

“Eric’s impact on this organization and the fire service was immense,” said Fire Chief Brad Thompson. “He helped lay the foundation for who we are today. We are grateful for his leadership and the legacy he left behind.”

“On behalf of the VRFA Board of Governance, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Eric’s family and loved ones,” said Board Chair Nancy Backus. “Eric’s leadership, vision, and commitment to public service were instrumental in shaping the VRFA. His legacy will continue to benefit our communities for generations to come.”

The VRFA serves approximately 110,000 residents across 38 square miles and remains committed to building on the strong foundation Eric helped create. His contributions will continue to be felt through the service we provide to the community every day.

The VRFA extends its sincere condolences to the Robertson family and will share additional information as appropriate.

04/21/2026