After serving as CFSI Executive Director for the past 30 years, Bill Webb announced his retirement effective December 31, 2025. He made the announcement last night at a reception attended by members of the CFSI National Advisory Committee and other associates he has worked with throughout the years.
“A friend of mine recently summed up his career by saying you never have to work a day in your life if you enjoy what you’re doing,” said Webb in his remarks. “For the most part, those words describe how I feel about my work. I did not look at my days in the office as work, but more as an opportunity to serve others and by doing so, contribute a little something to the safety of our great nation.”
As Executive Director, Webb worked with six Administrations and ten U.S. Fire Administrators. His contributions to the fire service, including his role in the creation of the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program in 2000, his support for the United States Fire Administration and National Fire Academy, and his advocacy for fire safety and prevention, among other issues, have significantly impacted public safety in our nation. In addition, his close work with the leaders of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus has preserved the caucus’s bipartisan spirit and maintained its effectiveness, leaving a lasting legacy.
In lauding Webb for his contributions to the fire service, CFSI President Jim Estepp quoted Harry Truman who said, “’It’s amazing what you can accomplish if you don’t care who gets the credit.’” Webb’s leadership skills and personal attributes have played a significant role in preserving collaboration between members of Congress, Administration officials, and fire service organizations. “At times a quiet force, Bill has undoubtedly proven himself as a pivotal fire service leader over the past 30 years, influencing important issues in Washington, DC, that have greatly benefited our nation’s fire and emergency services,” said Estepp. “We will miss his leadership.”
Estepp announced that CFSI Director of Government Affairs Michaela Campbell, a seasoned leader with a strong track record, will serve as the organization’s next Executive Director. Her experience working in Congress for Senator Susan Collins, combined with her time as a lobbyist and legislative assistant, as well as her tenure at CFSI, makes her a strong fit for the role. “Throughout the years, Michaela has demonstrated herself to be a strong leader and effective voice for our nation’s fire services,” said Estepp. “I am confident that she will continue the legacy of strong leadership set by Bill Webb as our next Executive Director.”
