In October of 2018, Captain Willrath applied for the National Fire Academy Managing Officer Program. Andy was accepted to the program and began the journey in September of 2019. This is normally a two-year program, however, due to COVID it was a challenge to complete, as it requires a two-week stay each year at the National Fire Academy. On November 7, 2022, the United States Fire Administration (USFA)/ National Fire Academy (NFA) announced that Captain Andy Willrath of the Mustang Fire Department successfully completed all requirements needed to graduate from the Managing Officer (MO) Program.
The goals of this program are to promote and enhance the professional growth of fire service leadership while preparing future leaders through a combination of education and linking people and ideas. Participants in this program receive instruction on leadership, community risk reduction, firefighter and community safety, contemporary training issues, and analytical tools for decision-making. This two-year program comprises four unique courses requiring the participant to develop and complete a Capstone project directly benefiting the fire officer’s department and community. This Capstone project permits the student an opportunity to demonstrate the application of course theory and concepts in real-life situations. Captain Willrath’s Capstone project was the development of new severe weather Standard Operating Guidelines (SOGs). Mustang Fire Department looks to implement the new SOGs for EOC operations this coming spring.
Presenting Captain Willrath with his graduation certificate from the Managing Officer Program of the National Fire Academy is Fire Chief Craig Carruth. Joining Andy in celebration of his accomplishment are members of his family: His wife Lea and his sons - Sawyer and Cooper.
Congratulations Andy, job well done! An entire City is proud of your accomplishment and grateful for your service.