The purpose of the CFO Program is to recognize Chief Fire Officers who have achieved a defined standard of professionalism, to enhance the level of Chief Fire Officers competence and professional conduct through training, education, continuing education and management development, and to assist career planning for emergency service Chief Officers and aspiring Chief Officers.

Achieving professional designation as a Chief Fire Officer acknowledges that an individual has attained the status recognized by his/her peers, superiors and subordinates. Other similar organizations within commercial, industrial and governmental agencies will also recognize this renowned mark of distinction. As a fire chief, subordinate chief officer, senior emergency services officer, or individual assigned to a senior level position may receive the professional designation as a Chief Fire Officer (CFO) if he/she can successfully complete the requirements of the professional designation for the Chief Fire Officer Program.