Bemidji Fire Chief Justin Sherwood Honored with Leadership Award

Bemidji Fire Chief Justin Sherwood received the prestigious 2025 Leadership Award from the Minnesota State Fire Chiefs Association (MSFCA) during its annual conference held from October 15-18, 2023, in Duluth. This award recognizes individuals or groups who have significantly contributed to the fire service and demonstrated exceptional leadership.

The MSFCA president highlighted Sherwood’s dedication to advancing the fire service both at the state and national levels. According to a post by the Bemidji Fire Department, under his leadership, the department has seen improvements in capacity, morale, and overall readiness. The post praised Sherwood’s vision, stating, “Chief Sherwood’s vision for accountability, continuous improvement, and community partnership reflects the very criteria of the award: leadership, innovation, and major contributions to the fire service.”

Sherwood’s journey with the Bemidji Fire Department began in 2002 when he started as a residential dorm firefighter. He has served as the fire chief since 2021, guiding the department through various challenges and developments.

Commendations for Advocacy and Emergency Response

During the award presentation, MSFCA President Eric Bullen commended Sherwood’s advocacy efforts, particularly his participation in the Congressional Fire Services Institute Symposium in Washington, D.C. Earlier this year, Sherwood applied for and received a scholarship to attend the symposium, allowing him to represent Minnesota’s fire service without incurring personal costs. Bullen remarked on Sherwood’s seamless integration into the legislative committee, where he advocated with extensive knowledge for improvements benefiting fire services in greater Minnesota.

Bullen also acknowledged Sherwood’s leadership during the aftermath of a severe storm that struck on June 21. He noted, “Chief Sherwood went to work and led his department in responding to an overwhelming call volume in the initial hours after the storm.” Recognizing the scale of the situation, Sherwood contacted the State Fire Marshal Division and the MSFCA to activate the Intrastate Mutual Aid Plan. This action facilitated the deployment of chief officers and resources from across the state, enabling his team to manage personal property losses while responding to community needs.

The recognition of Sherwood’s leadership has resonated throughout the Bemidji community. The department’s social media post celebrating the award emphasized that when the chief leads effectively, the entire community benefits. Sherwood’s commitment to enhancing the fire service and ensuring community safety continues to inspire his colleagues and residents alike.