Indianapolis Fire Chief to lead emergency services leadership training in Plymouth

Sunday, December 7, 2025 at 11:00 PM

By Kathy Bottorff

Emergency service personnel across Marshall County will have the opportunity to enhance their leadership skills next week through a grant-funded seminar featuring an Indianapolis Fire Department battalion chief.

Dr. Candace Ashby will present "Leadership from the Bottom Up," an interactive training program designed to inspire positive organizational change regardless of participants' positions or ranks.

The seminar, funded through the Marshall County Safety Grant Program, will be offered twice to accommodate varying schedules: Friday, December 12, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., and Saturday, December 13, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Both sessions will be held at the Lincoln Education Center, 220 North Liberty Street in Plymouth.

John Grolich secured funding from the Marshall County Commissioners and County Council to bring the additional educational opportunity to local emergency services this year.

The four-hour program emphasizes interactive discussions aimed at stimulating individual leadership development, growth, and performance. Ashby, who serves as battalion chief with the Indianapolis Fire Department, will guide attendees through strategies for creating positive change within their organizations.

While the program is designed primarily for emergency service personnel, all interested individuals are welcome to attend. However, organizers request that attendees RSVP to John Grolich at 574-933-3352 to ensure adequate space and materials.

The training represents one of several educational initiatives made possible through the Marshall County Safety Grant Program, which supports professional development and safety improvements for emergency responders throughout the county.