Bill Webb, former Executive Director of the Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI), was recognized with the 2026 Mason Lankford Fire Service Leadership Award during the 36th Annual National Fire and Emergency Services Dinner on March 19.
The award, presented by CFSI and Motorola Solutions, honors leaders who have made significant contributions to fire and emergency services through prevention, mitigation, and response efforts.
Webb led CFSI for more than 30 years, where he played a key role in advancing federal support for the fire service and strengthening its voice on Capitol Hill. His work helped sustain major national programs, including the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program and the United States Fire Administration (USFA), both central to firefighter safety and operational readiness.
During his tenure, Webb worked across multiple administrations and with members of Congress to align fire service priorities with federal policy. His efforts also contributed to the expansion of the Public Safety Officers’ Benefits (PSOB) program and the establishment of the First Responder Network Authority.
In addition to his leadership at CFSI, Webb continues to serve on the board of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation and holds honorary memberships with several fire service organizations.
“Bill Webb’s over 30 years of leadership transformed how the fire service is represented and supported at the national level,” said CFSI President Jim Estepp. “The Mason Lankford Award is a fitting tribute to his unwavering advocacy, strategic vision, and lifelong commitment to advancing firefighter safety and strengthening communities – qualities that led my fellow board members and me to select him as the 2026 recipient.”
The Mason Lankford Award recognizes individuals whose leadership has strengthened the fire and emergency services community nationwide, reflecting Webb’s long-standing role in shaping policy and support for first responders.
(AI was used in part to facilitate this article.)
