Competencies of human talent in the Fire Department of the Canton of Salcedo and their relationship in the effectiveness of forest firefighting

Abstract

Introduction: this study analyzes the transversal competencies of the personnel of the Fire Department of the Salcedo canton and their relationship with the perception of the training process received in risk and emergency management. Objectives: the objective was to determine the degree of association between the transversal competencies of the staff and their assessment of the training process, considering the performance of the instructor, the relevance of the contents and the conditions of the learning environment. Methodology: the methodological design had a quantitative, field, non-experimental approach, and descriptive-correlational scope. Data collection was conducted through surveys applied to 17 members of the institution, who were administered a structured questionnaire aimed at measuring the profile of transversal competencies and the perception of the training environment. Data analysis was performed in SPSS using frequencies, percentages, descriptive statistics, Shapiro-Wilk normality test, and Spearman correlation. Results: the findings showed that most of the staff were at a medium level of transversal competencies, with strengths in reliability (M = 8.88), optimism (M = 8.65), and decision-making (M = 8.53). Regarding the association between variables, Spearman's Rho coefficient was -0.108, with a significance of p = 0.679, which shows a very weak and statistically non-significant negative correlation. Conclusions: in conclusion, although the participants favorably valued the instructor's performance and the training contents, the data do not allow us to affirm that a positive perception of the teaching process translates into a greater development of transversal competencies. This scenario shows the need to restructure the institutional training offer towards practical, continuous schemes linked to the real demands of operational personnel. General Area of Study: Administration and economics for the sustainable development of organizations and society. Specific area of study: Public administration. Type of study: Original articles.