Dare 2 Command: Chief Officer

  • October 24, 2026
  • 8:00am-9:50am
  • FESTI - 2025 Courtneypark Dr East, Mississauga, ON L5T 1J3

Facilitated by Dr. Katherine Lamb & Debra Rogers

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For senior officers leading complex incidents, developing commanders and making high-consequence strategic decisions.

Designed for senior officers and chief officers, this advanced workshop explores leadership and decision-making during complex, high-consequence incidents. Using challenging, discussion-led scenarios, delegates will examine strategic command, managing uncertainty, multi-agency coordination, organisational risk and supporting commanders to achieve effective outcomes in today's evolving operational environment.

Dr. Katherine Lamb

Dr Katherine Lamb is a respected authority on the training and assessment of Incident Command and crisis decision making. Katherine worked as an accomplished research academic before joining the UK Fire Service in 2004.

In 2015, Katherine developed Effective Command, a behavioral marking system for the assessment and recording of incident command competence, which is widely used throughout the UK FRS. Following a presentation at the OAFC AGM in 2022, the OAFC deemed Effective Command the preferred tool for incident command training and Katherine is currently working with over 40 FDs in Ontario regarding its roll out.

Debra Rogers

Debra Rogers is the Acting Captain and Fire Investigator with the Campbell River Fire Department (CRFD) in British Columbia. She began her fire service career in 2009 as a dispatcher and, in 2017, transitioned to the suppression division, becoming the first professional female firefighter in CRFD's history. Beyond her operational duties, Debra is a passionate advocate for gender equity in the fire service. She is the founding President of the Island Ignite Mentorship Society, which offers hands-on training and mentorship to young women aspiring to careers in firefighting. Additionally, she serves as the Project Manager for Fire Service Women BC, overseeing initiatives funded by a Women and Gender Equality grant to support and connect women in the fire service. In recognition of her contributions, Debra received the BC Achievement Foundation's Community Award in 2025. She continues to lead by example, fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment within the fire service.