Ep116 "Performance above all else" with Billy Alcorn

In episode 116 of the Fireground Fitness Podcast, we sit down with Fire Chief Billy Alcorn to discuss leadership, culture, and the evolving challenges of the modern fire service. Chief Alcorn shares his journey from a small-town firefighter in Merced to leading the Fresno Fire Department, offering candid insight into building trust, fostering accountability, succession planning, and maintaining a “service above all else” mindset. The conversation dives into the importance of vulnerability in leadership, bridging relationships between city administration and firefighters, preparing the next generation of leaders, and ensuring firefighters never lose sight of the mission to serve their communities. 

A little more about today’s guest… 

Chief Billy Alcorn’s distinguished career in the fire service began in 2003 as a Paid Call Firefighter with the Merced County Fire Department. His dedication and skill quickly earned recognition, leading to his appointment as a Firefighter with the City of Merced Fire Department in 2004. 

Over the years, Chief Alcorn demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment, advancing through the ranks from Fire Engineer to Fire Captain, Battalion Chief, and Deputy Chief. In 2018, he achieved the role of Fire Chief for the City of Merced. 

In 2021, Chief Alcorn joined the Fresno Fire Department as Deputy Chief. His leadership and contributions were soon acknowledged, resulting in his appointment as Interim Fire Chief in March 2023 and ultimately Fire Chief in July 2023. 

Chief Alcorn’s career reflects an unwavering dedication to public safety, a deep commitment to the communities he serves, and a relentless pursuit of excellence in the fire service profession. 

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If you would like to contact today’s guest... 

Linkedin: Billy Alcorn 

Your host can be reached at: 

IG: @firegroundfitness 

FB: @fireground fitness 

Email: raynegray@firegroundfitness.com