Which power base relies on the ability to provide rewards that others find valuable?

The correct choice is reward power, which is based on the ability of an individual to provide tangible benefits or rewards to others as a form of influence. This type of power is essential in many organizational settings, including fire service leadership, as it enables leaders to motivate and encourage their team members by offering incentives, recognition, or other valuable outcomes. A fire officer who effectively utilizes reward power can enhance morale, promote desired behaviors, and improve overall team performance by satisfying the needs and desires of their personnel.

In this context, reward power is contrasted with other power bases. Coercive power involves the ability to impose penalties or punishments, which often leads to compliance out of fear rather than motivation. Legitimate power stems from an official position or role within the organization, granting authority based on that position, but does not inherently provide the ability to reward. Referent power is based on the respect and admiration others have for an individual, but it does not necessarily involve a tangible reward system. Thus, reward power stands out as the one that explicitly relies on providing benefits that enhance collaboration and commitment.