Kevin Housley

Building Better Firefighters: The Science of Motivation, Stress, and Peak Performance

Course Description:

What drives firefighters to perform at their best—day after day, call after call? Basic skill and
experience matter, but true high performance comes from understanding motivation, stress, and
human behavior.
This class explores Self-Determination Theory (SDT) and human performance psychology to
break down what fuels engagement, decision-making, and resilience in the fire service. We’ll
examine stress tolerance, how an individual’s “state and traits” factor into success, and the long-term impact of allostatic load on performance.
Regardless of your rank or time on the job, you will gain practical tools to:
● Foster intrinsic motivation for sustained excellence
● Recognize and manage cumulative stress loads
● Optimize crew dynamics based on personality and stress responses
● Build a culture where accountability and high performance are the norm
This session blends research with real-world application, providing actionable strategies to
improve leadership, teamwork, and operational effectiveness. When we understand what drives
us and how stress affects us, we don’t just survive the job—we thrive at it.

Biography:

Kevin Housley is a Captain proudly serving the Fort Collins, CO, community since beginning his
fire service career in 2005. Kevin has built a well-rounded career with experience on engines,
trucks, and in the training division. He founded Firefighter Craftsmanship in 2016 to help guide
the psychology of high performance, expand mindsets and strengthen resilience in firefighters.
Kevin holds a Master’s Degree in Human Performance Psychology from the University of
Denver, which he leverages to enhance firefighter training, mental resilience, and team culture.
A Certified Breathing Coach through XPT Life and a graduate of the Art of Breath program,
Kevin integrates cutting-edge performance and wellness techniques into his work, helping
firefighters operate at their peak both on and off the fireground.
Kevin’s dedication to the fire service is matched only by his enthusiasm for lifelong learning,
basic skills mastery, and fostering a culture of health and excellence.