In this class, we will explore how CYFS (Central York Fire Service) successfully implemented a new highrise program by overcoming common challenges faced by many departments that tend to focus on the immediate topic of the day without sustained follow-through. Unlike typical efforts, CYFS employed core principles of change management to ensure the program's success, emphasizing the importance of creating buy-in among firefighters from the outset. We will examine how the highrise team strategically rolled out the program in staged phases, allowing for manageable adjustments and continuous momentum, all while maintaining transparent and consistent communication throughout every step of the process. This approach not only fostered firefighter engagement but also built confidence and trust, ultimately leading to a sustainable and successful program.
Tamara Roitman
Tamara Roitman has been a full-time firefighter since 2009 and has served as a full-time Training Captain in the fire service since 2022. In her current role, she coordinates a number of portfolios including electric vehicle fires, medical, and high-rise firefighting. Tamara holds a Master of Public Administration degree from the Royal Military College of Canada, as well as a Master of Science degree in Forensic Anthropology from Bournemouth University in the UK. In her spare time, Tamara has served as a subject matter expert for the development of several OFM courses including Lithium-Ion Batter Awareness. She is also a member of the Governance Committee for the Ontario Association of Fire Training Officers (OAFTO).
