Creating the Alberta Fire Service leadership framework

This study examines a leadership framework created for the Alberta Fire Service that transforms the current paradigm to one that is responsive to change, while embracing learning and continuous improvement in service to the public. A Ministerial Committee tasked to develop a comprehensive and unifying framework provides the opportunity to validate this leadership model through qualitative action research. The Alberta Fire Service strongly acknowledges that it is time for a different approach to leadership and the need for cohesive direction. Alberta's Fire Services are an integral part of the public safety system that must be responsive in order to maximize their effectiveness in this era of continuous change. This study adhered to Royal Roads University Research Ethics Policy and the Tri-Council Policy Statement's eight guiding ethical principles with particular attention to the researcher's role clarity, lines of accountability and communications.