October 18 – Six County Fire employees were honored by County Board of Supervisors for their participation in the Management & Leadership Academy (MLA). Deputy Fire Marshal Mike Horton was successful in the Executive Development Program of MLA, while Division Chief Jim Johnstone, Battalion Chief Mike Snow, Assistant Division Manager for the Office of Emergency Services Cindy Serrano, Fire Prevention Supervisor Brian Headley, and Office Assistant Teresa Vogt completed the Management Program of MLA.

In 1996, the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors, Administrative Office and department heads established the MLA to provide comprehensive management and leadership training to County employees. Those participating in MLA gain theoretical and practical knowledge of public service management and leadership practices, with specific emphasis on understanding their application within San Bernardino County.

In 2002, as part of the County’s strategic planning initiative, the MLA program curriculum was reevaluated and redesigned to more effectively address the County’s increasing need for leaders at all levels. Beginning in 2005, the MLA was expanded to include three “tracks,” each uniquely designed to prepare the participant for the “next level” of professional development. MLA program tracks include: supervisory development, which helps staff prepare for the challenges of supervision; management development, which provides supervisors with skills and knowledge they need to successfully transition into management positions; and executive development, which introduces managers to the challenges and opportunities present in executive level positions. In addition to the instructional programs, MLA participants have access to mentoring, job shadowing and special project opportunities designed to help them gain operational insight and experience.

Many things have changed in the years since MLA’s inception, including the business needs and challenges facing the County and its workforce. The MLA has continually responded and adapted to those changing needs and demands. Through it all, the County’s commitment to, and interest in, cultivating leaders from among our existing talent pool has remained strong. As we consider our business priorities and human resources needs for the next decade, programs such as MLA hold the best promise and potential to adequately prepare and develop our leaders of tomorrow.

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