Leadership Institute goes behind the scenes at Pierce Manufacturing

October 19, 2026

From exploring fire apparatus manufacturing to experiencing military vehicles firsthand, Leadership Institute spent October 13–16 in Appleton, Wisconsin for an experience that took leadership development well beyond the classroom.

The multi-day visit to Pierce Manufacturing and Oshkosh gave participants an opportunity to connect with industry leaders, explore manufacturing operations, and gain a broader perspective on the innovation, technology, and relationships that support the fire service.

The experience reflects the purpose of the Leadership Institute: developing leaders who can think beyond their individual departments, build meaningful professional relationships, and bring new perspectives back to South Carolina's fire service.

The group began its visit Tuesday evening with a dinner hosted by Stephen Kohler, Shena Straka, and Dan Meyer. Lady's Island/St. Helena Fire District Chief Bruce Kline also joined participants for dinner and returned Wednesday morning, providing an additional opportunity for conversation and connection among fire service leaders.

On Wednesday, the Leadership Institute visited Pierce Manufacturing, where Marty Bass and Chad Schneider welcomed the group.

Participants received an overview of manufacturing operations before touring production facilities and the apparatus assembly plant. The tours provided a firsthand look at the work, coordination, and processes involved in building fire apparatus.

The day also included presentations on innovation with Dave Archer and product support and internal training with Todd Knorr. These sessions introduced participants to the considerations involved in developing, manufacturing, and supporting the equipment firefighters depend on.

Stephen Kohler led the afternoon assembly plant tour, and the day concluded with a dinner hosted by Jay Junkins and Carley Reiter.

Thursday brought another opportunity to experience leadership and innovation from a different perspective.

At Oshkosh Defense, participants attended a leadership session presented by Jay Junkins before taking part in Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV) rides hosted by Heidi McGeough. The opportunity to experience these specialized vehicles firsthand was a memorable part of the visit and offered participants a look at another side of the vehicle manufacturing industry.

The group continued its day with a visit to Lambeau Field and a behind-the-scenes look at Pierce Manufacturing's latest innovations.

The day concluded with a dinner hosted by Shannon Gaffney and Frannie Bedat-Fitzpatrick.

The Leadership Institute challenges participants to expand their perspectives, strengthen their leadership abilities, and better understand the people, organizations, and industries that influence the fire service.

Opportunities like the Wisconsin visit expose participants to experiences they may not encounter in their day-to-day responsibilities. Just as importantly, they create opportunities to ask questions, exchange ideas, and build relationships with fellow participants and industry professionals.

The value extends beyond the trip itself, as participants bring those experiences and perspectives back to their departments and communities.

The South Carolina State Firefighters’ Association extends its sincere appreciation to Pierce Manufacturing, Oshkosh, and the individuals who invested their time and expertise in making this experience possible.

Special thanks to Stephen Kohler, Shena Straka, Dan Meyer, Marty Bass, Chad Schneider, Mike Groeneveld, Dave Archer, Todd Knorr, Jay Junkins, Carley Reiter, Heidi McGeough, Shannon Gaffney, Frannie Bedat-Fitzpatrick, and everyone at Pierce Manufacturing and Oshkosh for supporting Leadership Institute. From coordinating the itinerary and hosting meals to leading presentations, facilitating tours, and sharing their professional experiences, these individuals helped create an outstanding opportunity for participants. Their hospitality and commitment to supporting the development of fire service leaders are greatly appreciated.

We extend an enormous thank you to Spartan Fire & Emergency Apparatus's Robbie Fore, Mary Elise Fore, and R.E. Fore for being our guides for the week. Your generosity and customer service is world class. Thank you!

Leadership Institute is more than a traditional leadership course. It is an opportunity to challenge your thinking, learn from experienced leaders, develop lasting professional relationships, and participate in experiences that broaden your understanding of the fire service.

For firefighters looking to take the next step in their leadership development, experiences like this are just one example of what the Leadership Institute offers.

Learn more about the Leadership Institute and what it takes to be part of a future class.