+350 fire departments now use the military staffing model and augment smaller crews with firefighters who sign up for a specific time period; the typical commitment is 4 years.

Practically none of the predictions about the staying power of the presidential candidates or the outcomes heading into the conventions were accurate.

Mentors have been critical in allowing me to reach my career goals. I'm excited to help the next generation of women reach their career goals.

In this issue of Career Compass, Dr. Frank Benest explains how to persuasively use stories to influence public policy decisions.

You can learn from local governments everywhere. My work has spanned the globe and every place I visit provides new opportunities for learning.

We are where the rubber meets the road in local government. Citizens need to hear our stories to understand that government can be a good thing.

Difficult conversations are necessary—at least if you want people to correct mistakes, learn, and grow. Remember one rule: You're trying to help, not win.

Build a respectful, supportive manager-chief relationship to ensure public trust and confidence.