By Katherine Sauceda
Growing up, Fire Chief Brian Marcos was unknowingly surrounded by multiple mentors who worked in public safety. A first-generation American, he said they inspired him to follow in their footsteps. Public safety seemed like a natural fit for the former athlete, allowing him to be part of a team again, and soon enough he found himself looking at a shot with the Smyrna Fire Department. Today, this self-described “kid off the street” is a father of three and leads the very department that took a chance on him.
As fire chief, how do you encourage and support your
team of firefighters?
Brian Marcos: I come to work ready to be present, be authentic and do what only I can do. What I’ve seen out of my team is that they want to know that I’m doing what I’m supposed to be doing as their fire chief, advocating for the budget and the resources that we need to do what we do best. I am a champion of creating a space for them to grow and reach their potential and what they aspire for.
Tell us what it means for Engine 3 to have earned the Medal of Valor, the highest award recognizing an act of bravery, at this year’s Cobb Heroes Luncheon?
BM: When you think about showing up on scene, we have to do a rapid assessment of the situation—a “360 size up”—where we assess what the conditions are and evaluate what we need to do. We have priorities on a fire ground, life safety being number one, and that’s what Engine 3 did that day [we were recognized for.] My firefighters’ quick actions prevented more injury or loss of life. I couldn’t be more proud. That’s what we prepare ourselves for. In the most urgent time of need, we’re ready. I’m very proud of our department for the dedication they have to their training and their craft.
What keeps your crew going?
BM: Feedback is a gift in our culture and environment. We’re very open to the idea of constructive advice and guidance if someone needs course correcting. If you look at it like baseball, we’re batting 1,000, and that reassures our citizens that we’re trained, prepared and ready to keep them safe. People know when you come here, you come ready to work and do your best because the person next to you won’t allow you to do anything else, which is a pretty awesome feeling.
What other ways do you serve your community?
BM: I’ve always been a fan of leadership development and coaching, so anytime I get to go out and share some of the best practices that we’ve used in our organization to help other departments or industries or even coaching young kids, it inspires me.
What are the crew’s favorite places to refuel?
BM: Our go-tos most of the time are Orient Express, the Chinese restaurant in a train station, Atkins Park Tavern and Zucca Bar & Pizzeria.
