A Conversation with SMFR's Deputy Chiefs

A Conversation with SMFR's Deputy Chiefs

Author: Connor Christian May 28, 2024 Duration: 40:31

In this episode South Metro's three Deputy Chiefs, Chief Matt Weller, Chief Kristin Eckmann and Chief John Curtis, sit down to talk about current initiatives at SMFR and action plans moving forward. Those initiatives include collective bargaining, the new fire chief process, and results of the culture survey.

00- Introduction
1:09 Chief Matt Weller, Deputy Chief of Internal Services explains what his roles entails
2:38 Chief John Curtis explains his role as Deputy Chief of Emergency Services
4:10 Chief Eckmann covers her role as Deputy Chief of Community Services
5:52 Open dialogue about how they work together to improve SMFR
7:07 Culture Survey- how it came about, what it entailed and feedback
8:19 - Four key takeaways from culture survey
9:30- Chief Curtis talks about the line initiatives and what his department is working on since survey
12:25- EMS rank structure is explained, along with how this is being addressed
13:28- Culture retribution is discussed as a key point from the survey
14:50- Open dialogue about how SMFR is working to bridge line and staff disconnect
17:49 Tackling these issues and how to provide relevant training is discussed
21:00 Continued communication about survey results and how they’re working through solutions
22:00 Collective bargaining agreement is discussed
27:25 New fire chief search
30:46 How the 12 competencies for a new chief were decided upon
31:45 Chief Eckmann talks about leadership styles and questions people have had
32:19 Chief Weller discusses his focus on stability
34:00 Chief Curtis on building positive culture and accountability when showing up to work everyday
36:17 Chief Eckmann talks about optimism and humility
38:20 Open dialogue about values and work ethic
39:45 Closing remarks


SMFR Podcast, created by Connor Christian, is an internal communication hub for the South Metro Fire Rescue community. This podcast focuses on timely topics that matter to SMFR employees, from organizational updates and leadership messages to operational changes and new initiatives. Each episode dives into current events, important questions, and key announcements that affect everyday work and long term careers within the department. Listeners can expect candid conversations with leaders and subject matter experts, practical guidance on policies and procedures, and insights that connect field operations with administrative decisions. Whether you are on shift or off duty, listen episodes to stay informed, engaged, and aligned with SMFRs mission, values, and evolving priorities in the world of public safety and emergency services.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 27

SMFR Podcast
Podcast Episodes
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