to the individual’s needs. “Pairing the right support with the situation is how we make sure our team— both certified and non-certified staff—gets the help they need to keep going.” INTO THE FUTURE: LEADERSHIP, GROWTH, AND EXPANSION Looking ahead, the Greater Naples Fire District is entering a period of profound transformation. A top priority, Wolfe says, is mentoring and preparing the next generation of leaders. “Our bench is lean,” he admits.“Many of us, including much of the executive team, are nearing retirement, and there’s a real gap when it comes to developing the next wave of leadership.” He points to multiple factors contributing to this challenge, from lingering disengagement among personnel to a need for more educational preparedness. “Career development is absolutely critical,” he says. Workforce development is also about filling immediate needs. Wolfe estimates at least 20 new firefighters will be required to staff two additional fire stations, both of which are in the planning stages now.“We’re identifying response gaps in our coverage area,” he says, noting that construction on these stations is expected to break ground by fall 2026.“But before the stations open, we need to have personnel trained, prepared, and ready to step into rank positions.” It’s a process that requires meticulous planning to align hiring, training, and operational timelines. Building on this ambitious agenda that spans leadership development, workforce expansion, capital projects, and operational enhancements, Wolfe is steering the Greater Naples Fire District through a critical juncture. Every step forward will meet today’s demands while ensuring the district is equipped to face future challenges. 127 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 12 GREATER NAPLES FIRE DISTRICT
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