Bio Tian Griffieth

Tian A. Griffieth is a highly accomplished fire service professional with over 18 years of experience in leadership, emergency management, and public safety. He currently serves as the Battalion Chief of Training for the Historic City of Conway, South Carolina, where he oversees fire service training programs and safety operations and plays a key role in city-wide professional development alongside Human Resources. Tian is responsible for ensuring that Conway’s fire personnel are well-prepared, competent, and equipped to handle the diverse challenges of modern firefighting. His work focuses on enhancing operational efficiency, advancing firefighter safety, and incorporating innovative firefighting techniques into the department’s training curriculum.

Previously, Tian held the position of Captain at the North Charleston Fire Department, where he managed a $4M fire station and $2.5M in fire apparatus, ensuring operational readiness and strict adherence to safety standards. In this role, he led community risk reduction programs aimed at mitigating fire hazards, which contributed to a significant improvement in public safety. His strategic leadership helped maintain the department’s Commission for Public Safety Excellence Accreditation, a benchmark of professionalism and quality in the fire service. Tian also prioritized the well-being of his personnel by addressing employee safety and quality of life initiatives.

Tian’s career progression is marked by his hands-on experience in various fire service roles, beginning as a Firefighter/EMT and advancing to Engineer, where his meticulous attention to equipment maintenance and safety procedures earned him recognition. His operational knowledge and technical expertise set the stage for his rise to Captain and eventually Battalion Chief. His commitment to continuous professional growth is reflected in his completion of the prestigious Managing Officer Program at the U.S. Fire Administration’s National Fire Academy and his designation as a Fire Officer (FO) and Chief Fire Officer (CFO) through the Center for Public Safety Excellence. He has achieved a Bachelor of Science degree in Fire Administration from Columbia Southern University, graduating Summa Cum Laude, to refine his leadership and management skills further.

In addition to his formal roles, following his graduation from the prestigious South Carolina State Firefighters’ Association’s Leadership Institution in 2017, Tian became actively involved in the South Carolina State Firefighters’ Association, where he currently serves as Chair of the Officers' Section and also serves on the Advisory Committee. As Executive Director of the 9/11 Silent Walk, an event that pays tribute to the fallen first responders of the 9/11 attacks, Tian continues to demonstrate his commitment to honoring the legacy of those who serve. His leadership in organizing this annual event has brought together members of the community and the fire service in a shared act of remembrance and unity.

Throughout his career, Tian has received numerous awards, including the North Charleston Fire Department’s Distinguished Service Award and the Knights of Columbus "Firefighter of the Year" award. These honors underscore his dedication to public service, his strong leadership, and his ability to perform under pressure. His extensive training and certifications, ranging from vehicle extrication to water rescue and crisis management, further solidify his standing as a versatile and knowledgeable fire service leader.

Tian is known for his focus on empowering his team through education, mentorship, and a dedication to safety and professionalism. His leadership philosophy emphasizes service, integrity, and continuous improvement, ensuring that every firefighter under his command is equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to perform their duties effectively. His forward-thinking approach and ability to lead by example have earned him respect within the fire service community and beyond.

As Tian continues to advance his career, his contributions to the fire service, dedication to public safety, and commitment to fostering the next generation of firefighters remain unwavering. His impact on both the department and the broader community is a testament to his enduring influence in the field of fire service leadership and emergency management.