MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Public Information Officer, [email protected]
The Yvorra Leadership Development Foundation (YLD) proudly announces that Joe Flick, a Fire Lieutenant with the Milwaukee Fire Department (MFD), has been awarded a 2024 YLD Scholarship. This scholarship recognizes his outstanding dedication to leadership and service in fire and emergency response. Flick is a recipient of the Chief James G. Yvorra Award for Fire and Emergency Services Responders.
As a Fire Lieutenant, Flick plays a critical leadership role within the department. He is responsible for leading and commanding a firefighting company, making high-pressure tactical decisions during emergency responses. His unwavering commitment to training and mentoring firefighters ensures they are well-prepared for any situation. Lt. Flick fosters an environment of discipline, high morale, inclusivity, and teamwork. He is instrumental in planning, organizing, and conducting training sessions, ensuring that all crew members adhere to the department’s rules, regulations, standard operating procedures, and code of conduct.
“The Yvorra Leadership Development Foundation is pleased to provide a scholarship to Lt. Flick to assist him in achieving his higher educational goals, which will ultimately enable him to continue mentoring others in leadership roles,” said Michael Hildebrand, President of YLD.
Lt. Flick will use the YLD scholarship to further his educational and professional development. The scholarship will help him complete his bachelor’s degree in Fire and Emergency Response Management, equipping him with the knowledge and skills to enhance his contributions to the Milwaukee Fire Department and the broader community. Additionally, it will serve as a foundation for pursuing a master’s degree in Public Administration with a focus on Fire and Emergency Administration and Management. This advanced education will broaden his expertise in public service leadership and prepare him for potential executive roles within the department.
The Milwaukee Fire Department protects 90 square miles and operates with approximately 750 personnel, staffing three shifts across 29 engine companies, eight truck companies, two heavy rescue units, and 12 paramedic units. These units are strategically deployed across 30 firehouses to ensure rapid response and efficient coverage throughout the city’s diverse neighborhoods. In 2023 alone, MFD responded to over 80,000 emergency calls. Beyond emergency response, the department is deeply engaged in proactive community risk reduction, including fire prevention initiatives such as safety inspections, smoke detector installations, and public education programs. The department also maintains specialized units for hazardous materials, water rescue, tactical EMS, and Heavy Urban Rescue operations. The Milwaukee Fire Department is led by Fire Chief Aaron D. Lipski.
Each year, YLD recognizes emerging and developing leaders in fire, EMS, hazmat, emergency management, and homeland security by awarding scholarships. In 2024, YLD awarded a total of $44,000 in scholarships to seven individual recipients and two departments.
The application period for a YLD Scholarship runs from August 1 to October 30. For more information about YLD and its scholarship program, visit YLD.org.