Discover a collection of published articles, thought leadership pieces, and instructional insights that reflect Alex Zielinski’s commitment to advancing the fire service. From technical training strategies to servant leadership in action, these works span national platforms including Fire Engineering and other respected outlets. Whether you’re seeking inspiration, operational clarity, or professional development, this archive offers practical wisdom and forward-thinking perspectives for today’s fire service leaders and educators.

“Beyond ‘Fine’: Getting Real Feedback from Firefighters”
Many fire service leaders settle for surface-level answers like “fine” or “good”—but real leadership demands deeper conversations. This article explores why firefighters may hesitate to share honest feedback and offers 12 purposeful questions to help leaders build trust, uncover insights, and foster growth.

“How Fast is Your Rescue?”
Let’s challenges fire departments and facility managers to rethink their confined space rescue readiness. Using NFPA 350 as a benchmark, this article explores how hazard tier classifications directly impact team size, response time, and operational success. With practical tables, real-world urgency, and a clear call for strategic planning, this piece equips leaders to assess and elevate their rescue capabilities before the next emergency strikes.

“6 Tips for Better HazMat Operations”
Hazmat operations demand precision, adaptability, and smart decision-making—and this article delivers six actionable strategies to elevate your team’s performance. From choosing the right PPE to refining decon protocols, each tip is designed to reduce responder strain and improve scene outcomes.Let’s challenges our tactical edge!

