Ken Pimlott is the Director of California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection since 2011. Ken began his career as a reserve firefighter with the Contra Costa Fire Protection District. On today's show, Ken explains why firefighters have to become good leaders, the best ways to navigate a changing workforce, and leadership lessons he wished he learned sooner!
Key Takeaways:
[:55] A message from Leadership Nature.
[1:40] A quick intro about Ken 's background.
[3:25] How did Ken become interested in forestry?
[5:45] Why is leadership so critical in the fire community?
[9:35] Every firefighter is a leader in their own right. When a fire is happening, you can't always call base to find out what to do next.
[10:10 What does Ken mean by 'leader's intent'?
[11:45] What have been some of Ken's defining moments that really shaped and modeled him?
[15:15] In today's climate, Ken has never seen so many people agree and be in alignment about the importance of our forests.
[17:00] What's it like being the CEO of an agency compared to being in more of a middle management leadership role?
[24:40] What is Ken most proud of in his career?
[27:45] Ken shares what he wished he learned sooner about leadership.
[31:00] How does Ken manage and work with the younger generation?
[34:50] How can someone be successful in their career?
[38:15] Don't be afraid to take action.
Mentioned in This Episode:
The Last Stand of the Tin Can Sailors Book, by James D. Hornfischer
