The Backstep Boys: Mastering Command Decisions and Crew Resource Management

Fire Engineering Podcast Network

The Backstep Boys: Mastering Command Decisions and Crew Resource Management In this episode of The Backstep Boys, guests Dennis Rubin and Tom Currao join hosts Ron Kanterman and Tom Aurnhammer to dissect the complexities of fireground decision making. From battling large-scale urban fires to pioneering crew resource management, they draw from decades of frontline and leadership experience to explore how instinct, training, and teamwork shape command success under intense pressure. Highlights include the critical role of checklists, accountability systems, and communication structures, as well as managing stress during high-stakes incidents. The conversation also covers invaluable lessons from cockpit resource management in aviation and how these translate to firefighting operations. Brought to you by FireFacilities