Influence Without Authority: Career Growth Beyond Seniority

Career growth isn't determined solely by rank, years of service, or formal leadership positions. Every firefighter has the ability to shape their reputation, build credibility, and positively influence their team regardless of where they are in their career.

This interactive session explores how intentional actions, professionalism, and everyday leadership can create opportunities long before a promotion. Participants will learn practical strategies for earning trust, developing a strong professional presence, navigating workplace dynamics, seeking mentorship, and taking ownership of their career development. Principles of Influence Without Authority will be explored which include: Competence, Credibility, Influence, Opportunity. Through discussion, real-world examples, and breakout activities, attendees will leave with actionable tools to increase their impact, expand their influence, and build a career defined by purpose rather than position.

Whether you're preparing to enter the fire service or are already serving in the profession, this session will challenge you to think beyond seniority and recognize that leadership begins long before a title does.

Jessica Crombie

Jessica is a leading specialist in Ontario fire candidate recruitment optimization, offering comprehensive coaching and mentorship through her company, Windrush Fire Coaching. With six years as a volunteer firefighter with the Hamilton Fire Department and six years as a professional firefighter with Oshawa Fire Services, she brings frontline knowledge and expertise to her training programs.

Before joining the fire service, Jessica began her professional career as a Sales and Marketing Specialist with Nestlé, where she honed her skills in communication, project management, and business strategy. This background enhances her ability to coach firefighters on branding themselves as strong candidates, developing leadership skills, and navigating career advancement and networking opportunities.

Jessica is passionate about training and takes pride in equipping firefighters with the critical skills needed to operate safely and effectively in high-risk environments. As a Hazardous Materials Response Program Lead Technician and Live Fire Instructor, as well as an FDTN-certified Fireground Survival and RIT Operations Instructor, she is dedicated to developing confident, capable fire service professionals through hands-on instruction and mentorship.

Beyond her instructional work, Jessica is deeply committed to the fire service community. She serves as the Volunteer Coordinator and Social Media Manager for the Canadian Fallen Firefighters Foundation, playing a key role in organizing the annual Canadian Fallen Firefighters Memorial in Ottawa—a tribute to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

Mike Berney

Mike Berney is a First Class Firefighter with Oshawa Fire Services, bringing 15 years of frontline experience to emergency operations, training, and firefighter safety. He is an IAFF Certified Fireground Survival Instructor and currently serves as a Shift Training Instructor for Oshawa Fire, where he plays a key role in developing and delivering practical, scenario-based training to operational crews.

A long-time FireFit competitor, Mike brings a performance-driven mindset to firefighter survival, emphasizing efficiency, body mechanics, and working smarter under physical and mental stress. His instructional style focuses on mastering the fundamentals, realistic problem-solving, and building confidence that translates directly to the fireground.

Mike is passionate about firefighter survival, crew accountability, and ensuring that every firefighter goes home at the end of their shift. His experience, technical skill set, and commitment to mentorship make him a valuable instructor and trusted training resource.