Procuring a new fire truck is a significant investment requiring careful planning and collaboration.  

Forming the right Fire Truck Procurement Committee ensures your department can secure an apparatus perfectly suited to its needs.

At Pierce Manufacturing, we understand the complexities of this process and are here to support your team every step of the way. By focusing on the essential elements of a successful committee, you can make informed decisions, benefiting your community for years to come.

Here are four key elements to consider as you form your Fire Truck Procurement Committee.

1. Prioritize Broad Stakeholder Representation

A successful Fire Truck Procurement Committee should consist of a diverse group of stakeholders who bring different perspectives and expertise to the table.

This group typically includes fire department personnel, financial officers, local government officials and maintenance personnel. But the stakeholders often depend on the type of organization or municipality making the purchase. Some may prioritize end users, like firefighters, station officers, chiefs and drivers, while others are sure to include fleet representatives, maintenance teams and administrative purchasers. Below, we outline some of reasons how a diverse group of individuals bring value to a committee.

Financial Officers and Procurement Managers

Financial officers and procurement managers support funding management and are responsible for budget considerations when changes occur throughout the process. With an additional understanding of contractual obligations, these committee members bring expertise and management in key areas.

Local Government Officials  

Local government officials are familiar with process management and contractual requirements. Their perspectives often bring historical knowledge of the procurement process and they often help lead the committee with vehicle use and the end user in mind.

Mechanics and Maintenance Representatives

Mechanics and maintenance representatives bring apparatus expertise, which allows the team to better understand the department's technical needs for the new apparatus. A mechanic can also knowledgeably answer complex questions about the truck’s application and maintenance requirements. This input is essential for making informed decisions about the truck’s design and functionality.

Firefighter Liaisons

A firefighter liaison acts as the voice of the firefighters, gathering their wants and needs and ensuring these are considered during the procurement process. They provide a unique vision as he or she can evaluate procurement decisions from the standpoint of the day-to-day firefighter. This is important in creating efficiencies and understanding ergonomic considerations, among other elements.

Every fire truck committee is unique. Each member is chosen based on his or her ability to contribute valuable insights and relevant experience, ensuring all aspects of the procurement process are considered.

2. Consider Committee Dynamics

When selecting a procurement committee, it’s essential to consider both the interpersonal dynamics and the team’s understanding of their purchasing and spending authority. Equally important is ensuring that the committee members are clear on their authority, particularly when it comes to making changes or adjustments throughout the procurement process.

A team that can focus on achieving successful outcomes, while operating within its defined budget and decision-making scope, will help ensure the final product meets operational needs and serves the community effectively. Planning for these dynamics in advance will reduce the risk of conflict and keep the committee focused on its priorities.

3. Identify a Strong Leader

Strong leadership is essential to maintain focus and direction throughout the procurement process. A strong voice, which takes all opinions into account while keeping the primary objective in focus, should be designated to have the final say in major decisions. Whether this is the fire chief, head of the fleet maintenance department or a specific, respected member of your department, this strong leadership ensures decisions are made with authority, keeping the project on track and within budget.

“The two characteristics I see in all the best truck committees are consistency and good strong leadership. One strong voice must have the final say on any major decisions.” - Joel Resch, fleet project requirements manager at Pierce Manufacturing

4. Maintain Consistency Throughout the Process

Keeping the same core group of people involved from the initial bid specifications to the final inspection will maintain a unified vision throughout the entire process.

Consistency helps avoid miscommunication, unnecessary changes and delays which can disrupt the production process. It also aids in creating a uniform fleet designed to operate seamlessly.

Rotating committee members during the process—or allowing non-committee members to get involved—can create unintended challenges in decision-making which can affect project timelines and budgets.

“The same core group should be together throughout the process, from bid spec to final inspection. When this isn’t the case, we run the risk of major changes throughout the process.” - Joel Resch, fleet project requirements manager at Pierce Manufacturing

Assembling the right Fire Truck Procurement Committee is essential to secure an apparatus to meet your department’s needs and effectively serve your community. By focusing on diverse stakeholder representation, cohesive team dynamics, and strong, consistent leadership, you can streamline the decision-making process and achieve a successful outcome.

Pierce Manufacturing is committed to supporting your department through every step of the fire truck procurement process. View our comprehensive, downloadable guide specifically designed for Fire Truck Procurement Committees, providing expert advice and insights to help you navigate your next purchase.

To ensure your committee is fully prepared and equipped with the best information, contact your local dealer for more information.