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Marcel Maure – Nominee for Director at Large – Rural Membership

by | Apr 13, 2026 | Uncategorized

With 25+ years in the fire service, Marcel Maure has worked as a front-line firefighter for the Department of National Defense for nearly a decade and a half before transitioning to municipal fire services as Director of Protective Services and Fire Chief for The Municipal District of Smoky River where he is currently posted. Chief Maure is also a Canadian Forces veteran having served as infantry soldier during tours to Bosnia in 1997 and Central Republic of Africa in 1999. Currently on AFCA Board of Directors as Alternate for Region 1 and Director at Large Rural Membership. Also serving on AFCA Membership and Conference Committees. Marcel is a sitting member of the Governance Board for AFFRCS, President of Peace Regional Fire Chiefs Association, Logistics coordinator for Northern HEAT firefighter’s conference, and one of the Logistics Section Chief’s for the Northwest All Hazard Incident Management Team (ABTF-1).

Respectfully
Marcel Maure
Regional Fire Chief

Director of Emergency Management
Director of Protective Services

Safety Codes Officer (Fire)
MD Smoky River No.130

Sean Pendergast – Nominee for Director at Large – Rural Membership

by | Apr 13, 2026 | Uncategorized

I am a proud Alberta fire service leader with deep roots in public safety, community service, and this snowy province we call home. Born and raised here, I now have the privilege of raising my own kids in Alberta alongside my loving and very patient wife. My connection to this place, and the people in it, shapes how I lead and how I serve.
I started my fire service journey in 2010 as a volunteer firefighter, stepping into a family tradition that spans three generations. In 2022, I became a full-time Fire Chief, continuing the legacy set by my father and grandfather.
As a third-generation chief, I bring a mix of historical perspective, modern operational knowledge, and progressive leadership. My approach is grounded in political neutrality, thoughtful problem-solving, and evidence-based decision making. These traits have helped me earn trust at municipal and provincial tables where the fires are figurative but still require good strategy and steady leadership.
I currently serve on the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs’ Answer the Call and Leadership & Development committees. My work there focuses on improving recruitment, retention, leadership capacity, and collaboration across Canada’s fire service.
I also represent Alberta’s Medical First Response agencies on the Alberta Emergency Medical Services Standing Committee, ensuring that MFR voices are heard.
Academically and professionally, I hold a Bachelor of Applied Business in Emergency Services and the designations of Executive Chief Fire Officer (ECFO) and Certified Local Government Manager (CLGM), proof that I’m committed to continuous learning and that I’ve spent a truly impressive amount of time in courses, meetings, and leadership workshops.
Outside of the fire service, I stay active through hiking, skiing, hockey, baseball, and doing my best to keep up with my kids who seem to have endless energy reserves that even ICS struggles to contain.
Respectfully, 

Sean Pendergast, ECFO

Fire and Protective Services Manager
Director of Emergency Management
Town of Penhold

Announcement – AFCA 2nd Vice President

by | Apr 10, 2026 | Announcements, General News, Uncategorized

Following the completion of the nomination process for the position of 2nd Vice President, and in accordance with AFCA Bylaws, we are pleased to announce that Chief David Mohl, Hanna Fire Department, has been acclaimed as AFCA 2nd Vice President.

After three calls for nominations, Chief Mohl was the sole nominee and has confirmed his willingness to serve. As no additional nominations were received within the prescribed timeframe, he is declared elected by acclamation.

Chief Mohl will serve a two-year term as 2nd Vice President.

On behalf of the Alberta Fire Chiefs Association, we extend our congratulations to Chief Mohl and thank him for his commitment to the Association and the fire service across Alberta.

AFCA 2026 MLA Day

by | Apr 6, 2026 | Announcements, General News, Uncategorized

Advocating for Safety and Sustainability

On March 23, 2026, the Alberta Fire Chiefs Association (AFCA) hosted its annual MLA Day at the Alberta Legislature in Edmonton. Fire Chiefs from across Alberta gathered to engage directly with Ministers and Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs), advocating on key issues impacting fire services, emergency response, and public safety across the province.

The day was highly productive, with strong participation from elected officials across party lines. Chiefs were able to bring forward frontline perspectives, reinforce key priorities, and strengthen relationships that are critical to advancing fire service issues within provincial decision-making.

Key Advocacy Topics

Volunteer Firefighter Tax Credit

AFCA is pushing for a provincial tax credit to aid in the recruitment and retention of volunteer firefighters, crucial for rural and remote areas.

Pension Reform

Discussions are underway to lower the pension eligibility factor and explore optional pension models for volunteer and paid-on-call firefighters.

Roadside Safety

Emphasizing the need for stronger enforcement of safety measures to protect responders and the public at emergency scenes.

FireSmart and Wildfire Mitigation

Advocating for a comprehensive and well-funded FireSmart program to mitigate wildfire risks across Alberta.

Purpose of MLA Day

MLA Day is designed to:

  • Strengthen relationships between Fire Chiefs and elected officials
  • Provide a unified voice on provincial fire service priorities
  • Increase awareness of operational realities and risks faced by departments
  • Advocate for policy, legislative, and funding improvements
  • Ensure fire service perspectives are considered in government decision-making
Download the Leave Behinds Here

Fire Chiefs participated in scheduled meetings throughout the morning and early afternoon, followed by attendance at the afternoon Question Period in the Legislature.

In addition to formal meetings, Chiefs engaged in informal conversations with MLAs and Ministers throughout the building, further strengthening connections and visibility of the fire service.

At each meeting, Chiefs provided one-page leave-behind documents, ensuring that key messages and recommendations were clearly communicated and could be referenced following discussions.

Key Themes and Observations

Several consistent themes emerged throughout MLA Day discussions:

1. Service Expectations vs. Financial Pressures

There is increasing concern regarding how to maintain high-quality emergency services while facing fiscal constraints. Chiefs emphasized that fire services are already operating efficiently, and further reductions or constraints may impact service delivery.

2. Importance of Local Perspective

MLAs value hearing directly from Fire Chiefs. Local examples and operational realities were highly effective in illustrating challenges and reinforcing advocacy messages.

3. Need for Continued Dialogue

There was strong receptiveness from elected officials, with recognition that many of these issues require ongoing discussion, particularly at the intersection of provincial policy and municipal responsibility.

Meetings with MLAs and Ministers

AFCA was pleased to meet with representatives from both government and opposition, reflecting strong engagement across the Legislature.

New Democratic Party (NDP)

  • Lorne Dach
  • Kyle Kasawski
  • Rob Miyashiro
  • David Shepherd

Local MLAs

  • Chantelle De Jonge – Chestermere-Strathmore
  • Jackie Lovely – Camrose
  • Scott Cyr – Bonnyville-Cold Lake-St. Paul
  • Shane Getson – Lac Ste. Anne-Parkland
  • Adriana LaGrange – Red Deer-North
  • Tany Yao – Fort McMurray-Wood Buffalo
  • Nolan Dyck – Grande Prairie

Government of Alberta – United Conservative Party (UCP)

Ministers

  • Dan Williams – Municipal Affairs
  • Todd Loewen – Forestry and Parks
  • Nate Horner – President of Treasury Board and Minister of Finance
  • R.J. Sigurdson – Agriculture and Irrigation

Reflecting on MLA Day 2026

A Successful Engagement

MLA Day 2026 marked a significant milestone in our ongoing advocacy efforts, showcasing the power of direct engagement between Alberta’s fire service leaders and elected officials. The day’s events underscored the importance of collaboration and dialogue in advancing our shared priorities for safe and effective fire services across the province.

We are proud of the professionalism and dedication demonstrated by all participating Chiefs, whose contributions were pivotal in ensuring our messages resonated at the provincial level. As we move forward, we remain committed to building on this momentum, driving forward the initiatives that will enhance the sustainability and safety of fire services in Alberta.

Chief Trevor Brice Named AFCA 1st Vice President

by | Apr 3, 2026 | Announcements, General News, Uncategorized

Chief Trevor Brice has dedicated over four decades to the fire service, beginning his career in the United Kingdom in 1983. His journey has seen him take on pivotal roles in various Fire & Rescue Services, culminating in senior leadership positions. Since relocating to Canada, Chief Brice has been instrumental in shaping fire services in Saskatchewan and Alberta, serving as Chief Fire Administrator and Deputy Fire Commissioner for the Government of Alberta. Currently, he leads as Fire Chief and Director of Emergency Management for the Town of Okotoks. A committed member of the AFCA since 2014, Chief Brice has significantly contributed to the Association’s governance and strategic direction, ensuring the diverse needs of Alberta’s fire services are met with excellence.

Chief Trevor Brice ECFO, CFO, MBA, MAL, FIFireE, CRSP Fire Chief / Director of Emergency Management (DEM) Okotoks Fire & Rescue

Chief Trevor Brice is a distinguished leader in the fire service, holding a Master of Business Administration (MBA) and a Master in Leadership (MAL). His credentials include the Executive Chief Fire Officer (ECFO) and Chief Fire Officer (CPSE) designations, as well as being a Canadian Registered Safety Professional (CRSP) and a Fellow of the Institution of Fire Engineers (FIFireE). These qualifications underscore his commitment to professional development and excellence in fire service leadership.