The level of professionalism in the American fire service has increased dramatically over the last 30 years. Entry-level firefighters have college degrees, officers pursue master's degrees, and fire chiefs complete fellowship programs. Statewide certifications and accreditation programs have increased the demand for continuing education, not unlike climbing the corporate ladder.

FIRE CHIEF begins a series of podcasts with corporate leaders in the fire and emergency services. In this edition, Editorial Director Janet Wilmoth speaks with James W. Johnson, executive vice president of Oshkosh and president of the company's Fire & Emergency Segment, which includes Pierce Manufacturing.

Johnson is responsible for the overall operations of the segment that, in addition to Pierce, includes Oshkosh Airport Products, Medtec Ambulances, Oshkosh Specialty Vehicles, Frontline and SMIT. Previously, Johnson served as Pierce's vice president of sales and marketing.

Johnson also is an attorney who spent several years practicing law in Indianapolis, focusing on commercial litigation.

Johnson speaks with Wilmoth about the parallels between leading a corporation and leading a fire department.