Chill Out: Calming The Trauma Brain

Has "Karen" caused you to lose your mind and you don't know why? Let's pop the hood and see! We have all felt "triggered" or "activated" at some point in time and don't know why. Join us as we tour the trauma centers of the brain and explore the inner workings of a trauma reaction. Equip yourself with skills and abilities to manage reactions in yourself and others around you and develop a personal plan for your own emergency preparedness.

Presenter:  Michelle Albert, LPC

Presenter Biography:  Michelle is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia who holds undergraduate degrees from the University of Utah and a Masters degree from Argosy University with specialties in Forensics and Trauma. Since 2010, she has worked for the Alexandria City Department of Community and Human Services, where she has held the position of Forensic Services Supervisor since 2012. In this role, she also serves as the Outpatient Competency Restoration Coordinator and the Not Guilty by Reason of Insanity (NGRI) Coordinator. In 2013, Michelle established a private practice, where she focuses on working with first responders, public service personnel, members of the military and their families. Her dedication to this population led her to become a Certified Compassion Fatigue Professional (CCFP) in 2020 and a Certified Clinical Trauma Provider, Level II (CCTP-II) in 2024. Michelle is affiliated with a variety of associations and organizations, including the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Center for Excellence, The Overwatch Collective (TOC), She is a skilled presenter who is deeply invested in providing education and support for first responders and public service personnel. She is dedicated to creating a space for them to learn, grow, and improve their health and wellness while fostering a sense of camaraderie and humor.

VDFP - 1031/1033 - Recertification Course - Legal Update For Investigators

VDFP - 1031/1033 - Recertification Course - Legal Update for Investigators

VDFP - 1031/1033 - Recertification Course - Fire Inspector Safety

VDFP - 1031/1033 - Recertification Course - Fire Inspector Safety

Code Contagion: Navigating Special Pathogens In EMS And First Responding Community

EMS, fire/rescue, and other first responders must remain vigilant and aware of potential special pathogens or high consequence infectious diseases. This course will define special pathogens and how they can impact the operations of fire/EMS agencies. Learners will be familiarized with the identify, isolate, and inform paradigm of responding to potential special pathogens. Finally, examples of special pathogens and how to safely respond will be discussed.

Presenter:  Jose V. Nable, MD, NRP

Presenter Biography:  Dr. Nable is an associate professor of emergency medicine at Georgetown University School of Medicine and practices as an emergency physician with MedStar Health in Washington, DC. He is the medical director of Georgetown EMS and the EMS liaison for the MedStar Washington Hospital Center Biocontainment Unit for special pathogens. He is a subject matter expert and member of the EMS biosafety workgroup of the National Emerging Special Pathogens Training Center.

Federal-Military Section Day

Agenda coming soon!

Emergency Childbirth

When laboring people don't make it to the hospital in time OR have an emergency in pregnancy or labor, First Responders need to be prepared. Learn hands on skills for many birth emergencies (breech birth, hypertensive disorders, postpartum hemorrhage, and many others) from Community Birth providers.

Presenter:  Christina Owens

Presenter Biography:  Christina Owens has been a Certified Professional Midwife in Virginia since 2013 with a private Community Birth practice in Hampton Roads. Prior to that, she was the Executive Director at a free-standing birth center in Florida. She also spent 12 years working in a local, family-centered OB practice as a medical assistant in many roles. Chrissy has been a preceptor for many midwifery students over the years, is an ALSO (Advanced lIfe Support in Obstetrics) Approved Instructor for the AAFP (American Academy of Family Physicians), volunteers as a CEU reviewer and Accreditation Review Committee Person for the Midwifery Education Accreditation Council. She is also a volunteer for the local Medical Reserve Corps through VDH. She is the current President and Director of Education for the Virginia Midwives Alliance as well as the past Vice President and Public Relations Director. Chrissy is a firm believer in Interprofessional Collaboration on behalf of birthing families and their newborns in Virginia and aims to maintain those types of relationships among Maternal and Newborn Care providers in Virginia. She is a strong advocate for the Newborn Screening program in the Community Birth arena and has been a regional EDHI Learning Community co-facilitator in the past and a member of several workgroups surrounding both of these.

EMS Officer 1 - 2-Day 16 Hour Course

EMS Officer 1 is targeted for the entry-level officer serving as the Crew Leader or AIC. Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to effectively manage EMS agency operations and administration. Major topics covered in this course are the role of the EMS officer, facing compliance and accountability issues of the 21st century, recognizing and managing cultural diversity, safety/wellness, TQM, interfacing with the community and media at large, functional leadership, effective communications, incident management systems; and managing multiple casualty incidents. Students will need a computer/tablet with internet accessibility. 6-8 hours of online pre-course work is required.

Presenter:  Chris Vernovai

Presenter Biography:  Mr. Vernovai has been with the Virginia Department of Health, Office of Emergency Medical Services (OEMS) since 2018 as the EMS Systems Planner. Mr. Vernovai is a Nationally Registered Paramedic who has been in EMS/Fire Services for more than 33 years, most of which has been spent in EMS leadership, management, and education positions, including commercial, volunteer and combination volunteer and career EMS or Fire-EMS systems as well as a Firefighter-Paramedic with the Department of Defense Naval Base in Sugar Grove, West Virginia. Mr. Vernovai has been involved in basic and advanced life support EMS education for more than 30 years as a classroom and clinical instructor, field training officer and preceptor for EMS and fire systems across Connecticut, West Virginia, and Virginia. Most recently, he was the County EMS Coordinator for Highland County, Virginia overseeing the County's rural EMS program. Mr. Vernovai also served on each of the Local Emergency Planning Committees (LEPCs) for Bath and Highland Counties for 8 and 6 years respectively. Mr. Vernovai served five years on the State EMS Advisory Board's Workforce Development Committee and EMS Officer and Standards of Excellence Workgroups and continues to serve on these committees as OEMS Staff. Mr. Vernovai has been an EMS Field Preceptor, is a Virginia Education Coordinator, and Critical Incident Stress Management team member.

Leave It Better Than You Found It

With youth, high turnover, and less experience testing most Fire Departments in America, how will we effect the future for the better? How can we create the best environment to develop strong fire companies, future leaders, and just overall great people? This presentation may show the way.

Presenter:  Chris Logan

Presenter Biography:  Chris Logan is a 17 year career firefighter. He currently serves as Company Officer on Engine 1 with the Georgetown (KY) Fire Department. Married to his wife Kate for over 12 years they have two boys Hunter (18) and Wyatt (11). Captain Logan is a student of Leadership and Firefighter development with a passion for creating great people in and out of the firehouse.

Managing Respiratory Distress In Infants In Children

EMS clinicians often encounter infants and children in respiratory distress, and are often challenged with evaluating and managing those patients. What are the most causes of pediatric respiratory distress and how should we manage them? The discussion will include medication therapy and support devices/therapy including high-flow nasal oxygen.

Presenter:  George Lindbeck, MD

Presenter Biography:  Virginia State EMS Medical Director

MCI For PSAPs

Designed to equip dispatchers with the specialized knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage "Mass Casualty Incidents". Participants will delve into the intricacies of dispatch operations, focusing on decision-making processes, communication strategies, and crisis management techniques. Through a combination of theoretical learning and practical simulations, students will develop a deep understanding of incident prioritization, resource allocation, and coordination with first responders. Emphasis will be placed on stress management, resilience, and self-care strategies. Becoming equipped with the advanced skills and confidence needed to effectively lead dispatch operations during critical incidents, ensuring the safety and well-being of both responders and the public. This course is presented for field personnel as well to have a better understanding what dispatch is doing during your field operations; it also provides opportunity for you to be hands on with what your dispatchers are learning and practicing.

Presenter(s):  Amber Moore & Devin Chinault

Presenter(s) Biography:  As a field responder and dispatcher, Amber has a combined 17 years of experience. She started as an EMT and transitioned into the Communications Center as a dispatcher, continuing her progression to an operations supervisor. Her passion lies with being the vital link between a caller and field crews, and the continuum of knowledge for the Communications Center post call intake/dispatch. With hands on experience during events from a field and communication position, she also served in active roles in the Command Post. Believer of connecting the field providers with the voices behind the headset where every opportunity presents itself. Currently she is the PSAP (911 Center) Specialist and EMD Accreditation Coordinator for the Virgnia Office of EMS in the Division of Emergency Operations.

Devin Chinault is a seasoned rural EMS provider with 13 years of hands-on experience. With over five years of dispatching expertise, Devin has adeptly handled fire, police, and EMS communications, ensuring efficient and effective emergency responses. Their keen interest in emergency management, particularly within EMS agencies, drives their commitment to improving emergency services. Currently, Devin serves as a communications specialist with the Virginia Office of EMS, bringing a wealth of knowledge and a passion for excellence to his role.

Mobile Homes: Small House - Big Challenge

Manufactured housing accounts for about 10% of the new homes built each year. Learn what makes trailers different from “regular” wood-frame structures and how to safely operate within this challenging environment. Tactics for suppression and ventilation, as well as strategies for operating in high-density mobile home communities are also presented. LEARNING OBJECTIVES: 1. Describe the differences between manufactured homes and site-built houses. 2. Identify construction features common to different types of mobile homes. 3. Discuss the effects of ultra-lightweight construction on fire spread, suppression, search, rescue, RIT, and ventilation. 4. Explain how hazards associated with manufactured/mobile homes affect firefighter safety. 5. Understand special considerations for firefighting in trailer parks and mobile home communities, including limited access, water supply, and exposures. The class begins with an overview of the different types of manufactured housing and its associated terminology. The students' interest is then engaged by a "fact vs. myth" section, where commonly held preconceptions about mobile homes are discussed. The presentation then moves on to size-up exercises, where real-world examples are used to illustrate the features, modifications, and design elements that can pose problems for emergency responders. After each segment, tactics for success are provided, focusing on the topics presented. Tips are broken down into 2 broad categories of special interest to firefighters: fire suppression and RIT. Offensive, defensive, and transitional attack tactics are evaluated, with an emphasis on efficiency and safety. Two firefighter line-of-duty death incidents involving mobile home fires are used to reinforce lessons learned. The fourth section of the class covers firefighting in mobile home communities. Students discuss water supply and identify potential paths of fire spread. The class concludes with a look at new technologies in mobile home construction. The classroom instruction is supported by a photo-based visual presentation featuring dozens of examples of real-world structures encountered by the instructor during three decades of rural and suburban firefighting. Floor plans, maps, and other technical illustrations are used to reinforce key learning points. Short video clips and photos from mobile home fire scenes are used to help bridge the gap between the classroom and the street.

Presenter:  Joseph R. Polenzani

Presenter Biography:  Joseph R. Polenzani began his fire service career 32 years ago as a volunteer with the Ashland City (TN) Fire Dept. In 1998, he became a career firefighter with the Franklin (TN) Fire Dept., where he is currently a battalion chief. He has also served as a volunteer firefighter/engineer with the Williamson County (TN) Rescue Squad. Chief Polenzani has a master's degree in public safety leadership and administration from Arizona State University and is a certified Fire Officer IV, Fire Instructor II, and Advanced EMT. He is a graduate of the Public Safety Leadership Development Program at the University of Denver Daniels College of Business, co-founder of Franklin’s company officer academy, and has been designated as a Chief Fire Officer (CFO) by the Center for Professional Safety Excellence (CPSE). Chief Polenzani has presented classes at numerous conferences, including FDIC International, the Southeastern Association of Fire Chiefs Conference, the Alaska Fire Conference, West Virginia's fire and EMS conference (ESCAPe), the South Atlantic Fire Rescue Expo, Nebraska’s Les Lukert Conference, and the Connecticut State Fire Academy. He has published articles in Fire Engineering magazine and FireEngineering.com, is an instructor for TheFireAcademy.com, and serves as President of the Middle-Tennessee F.O.O.L.S. (a non-profit organization that provides free or low-cost training to firefighters throughout the state).

Rescue Operations For The Engine Company

Many fire departments across the nation lack dedicated rescue or truck companies. Even in the departments that are fortunate enough to have these specialized resources, there is often a delay in their arrival to the scene. This necessitates the initial incident action plan and tactics being implemented to be performed by engine company personnel in many cases. Thus, it is imperative that engine companies train for the myriad scenarios that they will potentially face in their tour of duty. This class examines real world rescue incidents uniquely from the perspective of the engine company. We will review tool compliments that are common to the engine as well as outside the box uses for these tools and equipment. Finally, we will review management and leadership principles for both routine and complex incidents. This is an interactive class drawing on shared experiences from attendees as well as experiences faced over the instructors nearly 2 decades of running calls in rural, suburban and urban systems.

Presenter:  Nick Peppard

Presenter Biography:  Nick Peppard is a 19-year student of the craft. Nick is currently a firefighter/paramedic at the Oshkosh (WI) Fire Department. Nick is a founding member of the Rust Belt Jakes training cadre. Nick holds numerous fire service certifications and a bachelor’s degree in Fire Administration from Waldorf University. He has presented at numerous regional and national fire conferences including FDIC, Firehouse Expo, MAFFC, LIFT, Revolutionary Tactics at the Lake and many others. Nick is a founding member and training chair of the Old-Fashioned FOOLS, is a founding member of the Sawdust City Fire Expo and is co-host of the Make Due: Suburban Fireman Podcast with Sean Duffy of Build Your Culture. He is a published author with Fire Engineering Magazine and is a proud member of IAFF Local #316. He is very passionate about training and helping others better themselves so that we can all better fulfill our oath to serve and protect THEM. The Rust Belt Jakes training cadre was established in 2022 by Nick Peppard, Marc Aloan.

So You Want To Be A PPE Specialist?

This course will get you on the right track to becoming a PPE specialist. Taking a deep dive into PPE selection, cleaning, and maintenance. After completing this course, attendees will have a solid foundation in all aspects of NFPA 1851.

Presenter:  Nick Magoteaux

Presenter Biography:  Nick is a retired lieutenant with Bethel Township Fire Department in Southwest Ohio. He served as a firefighter, advanced EMT, corrections officer, and 911 dispatcher. He currently works for Gear Wash as the business development and military contract manager. Nick has his associates degree in Fire Science from Columbia Southern University.

The Meter Guys "When Meters Matter" Air Monitoring For First Responders

This course focuses on the First Responder and how to use a meter properly, understand the readings they see, and the implications of such on emergency responses.  It is estimated that a majority of first responders can turn a meter on but have no idea what the readings mean when it alarms, nor the knowledge of the changing situation as a meter begins to register readings putting them at significant risk. Today's First Responder training is deficient in Air Monitoring and the use of the basic 4-Gas meter, at all levels of Awareness, Operations and Technician training courses. The Meter Guys Air Monitoring course is designed to fill this void and bring quality SME training to your organization.  Students will participate in Lecture, Case Studies, and Hands-On meter training involving DOT transported chemicals. Upon completion of this course the First Responder will learn about calibration and bump testing importance, and peak readings, STEL, and fresh air calibration. Through our program the student will learn about each individual sensor in the 4-Gas Meter (LEL, O2, CO, H2S) so they better understand what their meter is telling them while on an emergency response on highway tanker accidents, as well as gas leaks, confined space, CO and other calls where first responder safety could be at risk. They will understand and physically experience the meter alarms during the course with meters that are brought with us for your First Responders to use. We also will be happy to review your meters during this class. By bringing our own meters we spare you the problem of having to re-calibrate your meters due to the amount of chemicals we expose the meters to during class. If you want us to use your meters during the class, we will be happy to do so understanding your meters will need calibration at the end of the class. This course is not designed to make the First Responder (Awareness/Operations) an offensive responder but to better prepare the member to detect the presence of danger to ensure the safety of their crew and the public. Furthermore, The Meter Guys instills the need for air monitoring to promote safety and health and help prevent Firefighter Cancers. This course is a self-contained course in which we arrive with everything to teach the class. Many classes require the host to provide equipment for the training. Frequently, this equipment is not usable for teaching, it is in ill repair, does not work, has dead batteries, hasn't been calibrated, etc. and the list goes on.  Many departments have very few meters which hampers training, this course shows why they need a meter, and how to use it! Furthermore, if your department does not have meters this provides an opportunity for you to learn more about them and hopefully justify why you need meters on your rigs. 

Presenter(s):  Scott Russell & Ben Bosley

Presenter(s) Biography:  Scott Russell is a 30-year Veteran of the Baltimore County Fire Department where he is a Captain with the Hazardous Materials Response Team. He is also a voting member of the NFPA 470/475 committee and collaborates on numerous research and development task groups vetting the next generation of Hazmat PPE and equipment. He also is an IAFF Hazmat instructor bringing quality training to Fire Departments around the country. Scott retired from the Air Force after 27 years of service as a Lieutenant Colonel with the Delaware Air National Guard’s 142nd Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron. He performed Evacuation of wounded, deploying nine times in support of four different overseas contingencies. He also executed Disaster/Emergency planning with the Air National Guard specializing in Hurricane evacuation/disaster response. Scott’s education consists of an AA Emergency Medical Services, BS in Nursing, and a MS in Disaster/Emergency Management. His love is First Responder training and instilling his Safety Through Knowledge™ concepts; with training focused on the responder with the principles of STK™ and the KISS (keep it simple stupid) concept. He is passionate about First Responder training, getting off the computers and training hands on in person. His goal is to promote Survival and Safety on incidents and to prevent Cancer in first responders. He also volunteers with A Soldiers Journey Home which is dedicated to building houses for combat wounded Veterans. Ben is currently a 25-year firefighter in the Baltimore County Fire Department where he has spent 20 of those as a Hazmat Technician with the Hazardous Materials Response Team. He is a meter training expert and a master instructor. His teaching techniques make learning meters fun and relevant to where the rubber meets the road which prepares the student for the call “when meters matter”. He has a passion for teaching fundamentals of basic chemistry and hazardous materials response. He has the gift of taking complex ideas/concepts and boiling them down to what the first responder needs to know on an incident. He takes great pride in training the next generation of First Responders as well as volunteering much of his time to the Boy Scouts of America. He is an avid Civil War reenactor and supports The Society of One Americas Defenders in their building of houses for combat wounded Veterans.

The Power Of Five: Stress First Aid Leading Actions

Company Officers are perfectly positioned to have maximum impact on the health and wellness of their crew.  This workshop will explore the research-based five elements of well-being and the five elements that company officers can employ to build resilience on a day-to-day basis and help their crew get through challenging situations.  The same actions help leaders handle stress reactions in themselves so they can be effective in their roles.  These elements are the foundation of Stress First Aid, but previous knowledge or training in Stress First Aid is not required.

Presenter(s):  Vickie Taylor and Lisa DeMarco Tilley

Presenter(s) Biography:  Vickie H. Taylor, LCSW, is the Director of the Prince William County Public Safety Resilience Center, a counseling unit created in 2016 and funded by Prince William County government to serve law enforcement officers, corrections, firefighters, paramedics and 9-1-1 tele-communicators. Prior to assuming this position, Ms. Taylor worked in community behavioral health for 36 years at Prince William County Community Services. In 1985, she began providing behavioral health consultation to the public safety agencies in Prince William County, VA. She also works on a contract basis with the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation as a trainer, behavioral health consultant, and the coordinator of the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Week-end Family Day. She is a contributing author and trainer of Stress First Aid for Firefighters and Emergency Medical Personnel and Stress First Aid for Law Enforcement Personnel.

Lisa DeMarco Tilley, LPC is a Behavioral Health Specialist with the Prince William County Public Safety Resilience Center who has provided behavioral health services for the members of the Prince William Department of Fire and Rescue (DFR) for 10 years. In addition, Ms. Tilley serves as the Clinical Director for the DFR Peer Support Team. Ms. Tilley has more than 25 years of experience providing individual, couples, family and group therapy in community and private counseling settings. In addition to her current position, she is also an Auricular Acupuncture Detox Specialist. She has been providing adjunct holistic care for public safety personnel for more than 15 years guided by the practices of the National Acupuncture and Detoxification Association. Additionally, she has worked as a facilitator with the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) Memorial Weekend Family Day for more than 15 years. Ms. Tilley is certified as a national trainer for SFA through the Center for First Responder Excellence. She provides training to the PWC Department of Fire & Rescue, PWC Police Department and Public Safety Communications, as well as other fire-rescue departments around the country.

Usual And Unusual Neurological Conditions

This course is designed to cover some of the more usual neurological conditions such as stroke, seizures, migraines and Parkinson's, but will also discuss Horner Syndrome, Bells Palsy, Guillian Barre, Mysathenia gravis, PML, alien hand syndrome, and others. Case studies are used to help the learner engage in the discussion and retain the differences.

Presenter:  Kathryn Funk

Presenter Biography:  Kathryn Funk, AGACNP-BC, MSN is the Stroke Registry Coordinator for the Virginia Department of Health. She has also worked as a Neurocritical Care NP at a Comprehensive Stroke Center, a Stroke Program Coordinator , and as a bedside nurse in the neuro ICU and stroke/telemetry unit. Additionally, Kathryn has worked as Disease Specific Stroke Reviewer for the Joint Commission for the past 7 years. She holds Masters in Acute Care Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner and in Nurse Executive Leadership, as well as certifications in Stroke and Neuroscience. She is a past Chair of the Virginia Stroke Coordinators’ Consortium, and an inaugural member of the VA Dept. of Health Stroke Quality Improvement Initiative. She is passionate about raising community awareness about stroke and is also a frequent presenter on stroke topics at local, state, and regional conferences.

Chill Out: Calming The Trauma Brain

Has "Karen" caused you to lose your mind and you don't know why? Let's pop the hood and see! We have all felt "triggered" or "activated" at some point in time and don't know why. Join us as we tour the trauma centers of the brain and explore the inner workings of a trauma reaction. Equip yourself with skills and abilities to manage reactions in yourself and others around you and develop a personal plan for your own emergency preparedness.

Presenter:  Michelle Albert, LPC

Presenter Biography:  Michelle is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia who holds undergraduate degrees from the University of Utah and a Masters degree from Argosy University with specialties in Forensics and Trauma. Since 2010, she has worked for the Alexandria City Department of Community and Human Services, where she has held the position of Forensic Services Supervisor since 2012. In this role, she also serves as the Outpatient Competency Restoration Coordinator and the Not Guilty by Reason of Insanity (NGRI) Coordinator. In 2013, Michelle established a private practice, where she focuses on working with first responders, public service personnel, members of the military and their families. Her dedication to this population led her to become a Certified Compassion Fatigue Professional (CCFP) in 2020 and a Certified Clinical Trauma Provider, Level II (CCTP-II) in 2024. Michelle is affiliated with a variety of associations and organizations, including the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Center for Excellence, The Overwatch Collective (TOC), She is a skilled presenter who is deeply invested in providing education and support for first responders and public service personnel. She is dedicated to creating a space for them to learn, grow, and improve their health and wellness while fostering a sense of camaraderie and humor.

Code Contagion: Navigating Special Pathogens In EMS And First Responding Community

EMS, fire/rescue, and other first responders must remain vigilant and aware of potential special pathogens or high consequence infectious diseases. This course will define special pathogens and how they can impact the operations of fire/EMS agencies. Learners will be familiarized with the identify, isolate, and inform paradigm of responding to potential special pathogens. Finally, examples of special pathogens and how to safely respond will be discussed.

Presenter:  Jose V. Nable, MD, NRP

Presenter Biography:  Dr. Nable is an associate professor of emergency medicine at Georgetown University School of Medicine and practices as an emergency physician with MedStar Health in Washington, DC. He is the medical director of Georgetown EMS and the EMS liaison for the MedStar Washington Hospital Center Biocontainment Unit for special pathogens. He is a subject matter expert and member of the EMS biosafety workgroup of the National Emerging Special Pathogens Training Center.

Managing Respiratory Distress In Infants In Children

EMS clinicians often encounter infants and children in respiratory distress, and are often challenged with evaluating and managing those patients. What are the most causes of pediatric respiratory distress and how should we manage them? The discussion will include medication therapy and support devices/therapy including high-flow nasal oxygen.

Presenter:  George Lindbeck, MD

Presenter Biography:  Virginia State EMS Medical Director

Mobile Homes: Small House - Big Challenge

Manufactured housing accounts for about 10% of the new homes built each year. Learn what makes trailers different from “regular” wood-frame structures and how to safely operate within this challenging environment. Tactics for suppression and ventilation, as well as strategies for operating in high-density mobile home communities are also presented. LEARNING OBJECTIVES: 1. Describe the differences between manufactured homes and site-built houses. 2. Identify construction features common to different types of mobile homes. 3. Discuss the effects of ultra-lightweight construction on fire spread, suppression, search, rescue, RIT, and ventilation. 4. Explain how hazards associated with manufactured/mobile homes affect firefighter safety. 5. Understand special considerations for firefighting in trailer parks and mobile home communities, including limited access, water supply, and exposures. The class begins with an overview of the different types of manufactured housing and its associated terminology. The students' interest is then engaged by a "fact vs. myth" section, where commonly held preconceptions about mobile homes are discussed. The presentation then moves on to size-up exercises, where real-world examples are used to illustrate the features, modifications, and design elements that can pose problems for emergency responders. After each segment, tactics for success are provided, focusing on the topics presented. Tips are broken down into 2 broad categories of special interest to firefighters: fire suppression and RIT. Offensive, defensive, and transitional attack tactics are evaluated, with an emphasis on efficiency and safety. Two firefighter line-of-duty death incidents involving mobile home fires are used to reinforce lessons learned. The fourth section of the class covers firefighting in mobile home communities. Students discuss water supply and identify potential paths of fire spread. The class concludes with a look at new technologies in mobile home construction. The classroom instruction is supported by a photo-based visual presentation featuring dozens of examples of real-world structures encountered by the instructor during three decades of rural and suburban firefighting. Floor plans, maps, and other technical illustrations are used to reinforce key learning points. Short video clips and photos from mobile home fire scenes are used to help bridge the gap between the classroom and the street.

Presenter:  Joseph R. Polenzani

Presenter Biography:  Joseph R. Polenzani began his fire service career 32 years ago as a volunteer with the Ashland City (TN) Fire Dept. In 1998, he became a career firefighter with the Franklin (TN) Fire Dept., where he is currently a battalion chief. He has also served as a volunteer firefighter/engineer with the Williamson County (TN) Rescue Squad. Chief Polenzani has a master's degree in public safety leadership and administration from Arizona State University and is a certified Fire Officer IV, Fire Instructor II, and Advanced EMT. He is a graduate of the Public Safety Leadership Development Program at the University of Denver Daniels College of Business, co-founder of Franklin’s company officer academy, and has been designated as a Chief Fire Officer (CFO) by the Center for Professional Safety Excellence (CPSE). Chief Polenzani has presented classes at numerous conferences, including FDIC International, the Southeastern Association of Fire Chiefs Conference, the Alaska Fire Conference, West Virginia's fire and EMS conference (ESCAPe), the South Atlantic Fire Rescue Expo, Nebraska’s Les Lukert Conference, and the Connecticut State Fire Academy. He has published articles in Fire Engineering magazine and FireEngineering.com, is an instructor for TheFireAcademy.com, and serves as President of the Middle-Tennessee F.O.O.L.S. (a non-profit organization that provides free or low-cost training to firefighters throughout the state).

So You Want To Be A PPE Specialist?

This course will get you on the right track to becoming a PPE specialist. Taking a deep dive into PPE selection, cleaning, and maintenance. After completing this course, attendees will have a solid foundation in all aspects of NFPA 1851.

Presenter:  Nick Magoteaux

Presenter Biography:  Nick is a retired lieutenant with Bethel Township Fire Department in Southwest Ohio. He served as a firefighter, advanced EMT, corrections officer, and 911 dispatcher. He currently works for Gear Wash as the business development and military contract manager. Nick has his associates degree in Fire Science from Columbia Southern University.

Usual And Unusual Neurological Conditions

This course is designed to cover some of the more usual neurological conditions such as stroke, seizures, migraines and Parkinson's, but will also discuss Horner Syndrome, Bells Palsy, Guillian Barre, Mysathenia gravis, PML, alien hand syndrome, and others. Case studies are used to help the learner engage in the discussion and retain the differences.

Presenter:  Kathryn Funk

Presenter Biography:  Kathryn Funk, AGACNP-BC, MSN is the Stroke Registry Coordinator for the Virginia Department of Health. She has also worked as a Neurocritical Care NP at a Comprehensive Stroke Center, a Stroke Program Coordinator , and as a bedside nurse in the neuro ICU and stroke/telemetry unit. Additionally, Kathryn has worked as Disease Specific Stroke Reviewer for the Joint Commission for the past 7 years. She holds Masters in Acute Care Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner and in Nurse Executive Leadership, as well as certifications in Stroke and Neuroscience. She is a past Chair of the Virginia Stroke Coordinators’ Consortium, and an inaugural member of the VA Dept. of Health Stroke Quality Improvement Initiative. She is passionate about raising community awareness about stroke and is also a frequent presenter on stroke topics at local, state, and regional conferences.

The Drift To Failure: Uncovering The Hidden Factors Negatively Affecting Fire Department Performance

In this engaging course, we will delve into the often-overlooked aspects that impact the effectiveness and efficiency of fire departments, with a particular focus on the normalization of deviance, chief officer complacency, and leadership. Throughout the program, we will analyze the concept of normalization of deviance, a phenomenon that occurs when members of an organization gradually accept non-standard practices as the new norm. We will investigate how this dangerous mindset can emerge within fire departments, compromising safety protocols, and hindering overall performance. By understanding the causes and consequences of the normalization of deviance, we will develop strategies to detect and address deviations from established standards, ensuring the highest level of operational excellence. Additionally, we will examine the critical role of chief officers in shaping fire department culture and performance. We will explore the potential pitfalls of chief officer complacency, emphasizing the importance of proactive leadership, continuous improvement, and fostering a culture of accountability. Through real-life case studies and interactive discussions, we will gain insights into effective leadership practices that inspire and motivate teams to consistently deliver outstanding performance. Throughout the class, we will foster an environment of open dialogue and encourage participants to share their experiences, challenges, and success stories. By engaging in lively debates and exchanging best practices, we will collectively expand our understanding of the hidden factors influencing fire department performance and identify innovative approaches to address them. By the end of this course, you will have a deeper appreciation for the complexities involved in maintaining peak performance within fire departments. You will possess the knowledge and tools to recognize and combat the normalization of deviance, address chief officer complacency, and foster a culture of proactive leadership. Together, we will strive for excellence and drive positive change in the fire service, ensuring the safety and well-being of our communities. Join me on this transformative journey, and let's go beyond complacency to uncover the hidden factors that truly elevate fire department performance.

Presenter:  LeRoy Smith

Presenter Biography:  Fire Chief LeRoy Smith brings over 30 years of extensive experience in the fire service, including more than 22 years with the Prince George’s County Maryland Fire Department. During his tenure, he led the Training and Leadership Division, Hazardous Materials and Special Operations Teams, Emergency Management, and Special Events Teams. Chief Smith also served as Operations Section Chief and Planning Section Chief for the National Capital Region Type II Incident Management Team. After retiring as an Assistant Fire Chief in 2010, he served as Deputy Fire Chief of Operations, Training, and Safety at the Baltimore Washington International Airport Fire Department until 2012. Since then, he has been the Fire Chief of the Holly Springs Fire Rescue Department, where he continues to implement advanced training programs and enhance operational efficiency. Chief Smith holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Fire Service Administration from Waldorf College and a Master’s Degree in Organizational Leadership from Johns Hopkins University. He is a certified Chief Fire Officer (CFO) and a Nationally Certified Fire Officer IV. His strategic vision and operational expertise have significantly contributed to the departments he has led. Chief Smith's commitment to advancing fire service operations, training, and safety through innovative solutions has earned him several accolades, including the Outstanding Service Award from Prince George’s County Fire Department and the Leadership Excellence Award from Baltimore Washington International Airport Fire Department.

Emergency Childbirth

When laboring people don't make it to the hospital in time OR have an emergency in pregnancy or labor, First Responders need to be prepared. Learn hands on skills for many birth emergencies (breech birth, hypertensive disorders, postpartum hemorrhage, and many others) from Community Birth providers.

Presenter:  Christina Owens

Presenter Biography:  Christina Owens has been a Certified Professional Midwife in Virginia since 2013 with a private Community Birth practice in Hampton Roads. Prior to that, she was the Executive Director at a free-standing birth center in Florida. She also spent 12 years working in a local, family-centered OB practice as a medical assistant in many roles. Chrissy has been a preceptor for many midwifery students over the years, is an ALSO (Advanced lIfe Support in Obstetrics) Approved Instructor for the AAFP (American Academy of Family Physicians), volunteers as a CEU reviewer and Accreditation Review Committee Person for the Midwifery Education Accreditation Council. She is also a volunteer for the local Medical Reserve Corps through VDH. She is the current President and Director of Education for the Virginia Midwives Alliance as well as the past Vice President and Public Relations Director. Chrissy is a firm believer in Interprofessional Collaboration on behalf of birthing families and their newborns in Virginia and aims to maintain those types of relationships among Maternal and Newborn Care providers in Virginia. She is a strong advocate for the Newborn Screening program in the Community Birth arena and has been a regional EDHI Learning Community co-facilitator in the past and a member of several workgroups surrounding both of these.

Failing To Plan Is Planning To Fail: What's Your Status?

Those dusty books or binders that are hidden in the back of your bookshelf, on the floor balancing that wobbly desk, or serving as your unofficial coffee cup holder contain content that could potentially save lives and minimize damages during an emergency.  The pages within these books contain vital information that has been tested and validated as guidelines on how to respond to the unknown.  This class will help the attendee understand the types of plans agencies should have in place, what should be included, resources for plan assistance, and a practical exercise demonstrating the importance of planning.

Presenter(s):  Kari Magner, Amber Moore, Devin Chinault

Presenter(s) Biography:  Kari has dedicated her life to the first responder and public safety communities since she was 15. She volunteered with her local EMS agency, obtaining her EMT certification, becoming a preceptor, and holding offices within the agency. Kari also worked as an Emergency Communications Officer for 16 years, serving in the role as dispatcher, training officer, assistant supervisor, supervisor, and Quality Assurance Coordinator. She then followed her new passion of merging her first responder knowledge into the Emergency Management field. Kari has strived to erase barriers between agencies who often work together, but rarely plan together. Recognizing the importance of agency cooperation and interoperability, she now focuses on helping EMS agencies and 911 centers to develop Continuity Plans and other emergency plans that will help communities across the Commonwealth be resilient and prepared for the unknown!

As a field responder and dispatcher, Amber has a combined 17 years of experience. She started as an EMT and transitioned into the Communications Center as a dispatcher, continuing her progression to an operations supervisor. Her passion lies with being the vital link between a caller and field crews, and the continuum of knowledge for the Communications Center post call intake/dispatch. With hands on experience during events from a field and communication position, she also served in active roles in the Command Post. Believer of connecting the field providers with the voices behind the headset where every opportunity presents itself. Currently she is the PSAP (911 Center) Specialist and EMD Accreditation Coordinator for the Virgnia Office of EMS in the Division of Emergency Operations.

Devin Chinault is a seasoned rural EMS provider with 13 years of hands-on experience. With over five years of dispatching expertise, Devin has adeptly handled fire, police, and EMS communications, ensuring efficient and effective emergency responses. Their keen interest in emergency management, particularly within EMS agencies, drives their commitment to improving emergency services. Currently, Devin serves as a communications specialist with the Virginia Office of EMS, bringing a wealth of knowledge and a passion for excellence to his role.

Fast Food Restaurant Fires

With over 300,000 fast food restaurants in the U.S., odds are good that your department will respond to a fire in one of them. This class analyzes the dangers of the lightweight/high-speed/low-cost construction techniques used in today's chain restaurants and discusses tactics for safely mitigating fires in the restaurant environment.  

Presenter:  Joseph R. Polenzani

Presenter Biography:  Joseph R. Polenzani began his fire service career 32 years ago as a volunteer with the Ashland City (TN) Fire Dept. In 1998, he became a career firefighter with the Franklin (TN) Fire Dept., where he is currently a battalion chief. He has also served as a volunteer firefighter/engineer with the Williamson County (TN) Rescue Squad. Chief Polenzani has a master's degree in public safety leadership and administration from Arizona State University and is a certified Fire Officer IV, Fire Instructor II, and Advanced EMT. He is a graduate of the Public Safety Leadership Development Program at the University of Denver Daniels College of Business, co-founder of Franklin’s company officer academy, and has been designated as a Chief Fire Officer (CFO) by the Center for Professional Safety Excellence (CPSE). Chief Polenzani has presented classes at numerous conferences, including FDIC International, the Southeastern Association of Fire Chiefs Conference, the Alaska Fire Conference, West Virginia's fire and EMS conference (ESCAPe), the South Atlantic Fire Rescue Expo, Nebraska’s Les Lukert Conference, and the Connecticut State Fire Academy. He has published articles in Fire Engineering magazine and FireEngineering.com, is an instructor for TheFireAcademy.com, and serves as President of the Middle-Tennessee F.O.O.L.S. (a non-profit organization that provides free or low-cost training to firefighters throughout the state).

Inside The Firehouse: Understanding The Injuries We Inflict On Each Other

Respect for the fire service is ever present: from the child on the street to the elderly person who calls us to help. Sadly, however, respect within the fire service may be at an all-time low. The injuries we are imposing on each other outpace the trauma of what we encounter or witness on the street. This course examines elements of Moral Suffering like Moral Distress and Moral Injury; how external and internal factors influence the impact of suffering, and how prolonged Moral Suffering is causing members of the fire service to leave, adversely impacting recruitment and retention goals. Join this "ask anything" forum style workshop presented through a unique partnership lens of Behavioral Health and Fire Service Leadership as we discuss strategies to address these deeply impactful and harmful injuries that threaten the fabric of our calling.

Presenter(s):  Michelle Albert, LPC & Matthew Tobia

Presenter(s) Biography:  Michelle is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia who holds undergraduate degrees from the University of Utah and a Masters degree from Argosy University with specialties in Forensics and Trauma. Since 2010, she has worked for the Alexandria City Department of Community and Human Services, where she has held the position of Forensic Services Supervisor since 2012. In this role, she also serves as the Outpatient Competency Restoration Coordinator and the Not Guilty by Reason of Insanity (NGRI) Coordinator. In 2013, Michelle established a private practice, where she focuses on working with first responders, public service personnel, members of the military and their families. Her dedication to this population led her to become a Certified Compassion Fatigue Professional (CCFP) in 2020 and a Certified Clinical Trauma Provider, Level II (CCTP-II) in 2024. Michelle is affiliated with a variety of associations and organizations, including the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Center for Excellence, The Overwatch Collective (TOC), She is a skilled presenter who is deeply invested in providing education and support for first responders and public service personnel. She is dedicated to creating a space for them to learn, grow, and improve their health and wellness while fostering a sense of camaraderie and humor.

Matthew Tobia is the Fire Chief with the City of Harrisonburg (VA) Fire Department and is a 35- year student of emergency services. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Maryland Baltimore County and is a graduate of the Executive Fire Officer program at the National Fire Academy. Matt has served as a member of the Editorial Board for Fire-Rescue Magazine and has authored over 120 articles. He is also the former chair of the IAFC’s Safety, Health and Survival Section, holds the Chief Fire Officer credential and is a member of the Institute of Fire Engineers. Prior to Harrisonburg, Chief Tobia spent 23 years with the Anne Arundel County (MD) Fire Department and four years with Loudoun County (VA) Fire Rescue. Matt began volunteering in south central Pennsylvania in 1987 and is active with the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) and the Mid Atlantic Burn Camp for Children.

Leadership - Lessons From The Line

There are as many leadership theories as there are authors and books, and sometimes, it is difficult to translate theory into practice.    This presentation is not theory, but rather a series of practical leadership skills designed for the leader or those who aspire to be one.  I will identify the leadership behaviors that I've found useful rising through the ranks in the fire service in local government up through senior executive service in the federal government.  In a concluding workshop, participants will identify the leadership traits they most admire and abhor, as well as those leadership skills that they most want to develop in themselves.

Presenter:  Dr. Denis Onieal

Presenter Biography:  As the Deputy United States Fire Administrator, Dr. Denis Onieal was the senior career federal fire official responsible for the day-to-day operation of the United States Fire Administration (USFA) — the annual training of over 140,000 first responders at and through the National Fire Academy; the National Fire Incident Reporting System, which documents and analyzes 28 million fire department emergency responses a year; the USFA’s fire prevention, public information and public education programs; and the 26 campus buildings and the grounds of the historic National Emergency Training Center in Emmitsburg, Maryland. Prior to his appointment as Deputy Fire Administrator, he served as Superintendent of the United States National Fire Academy. During his tenure, the NFA staff increased enrollments from 15,000 to over 100,000 students per year; completely revised all curriculum's so that each course received undergraduate or graduate credit recommendation through the American Council on Education; established a nationwide fire training system in partnership with each State Fire Training Academy; instituted and alliance with over 110 associate and bachelor degree programs to standardize fire degree programs; and launched an on-line training program to include self-paced and instructor led courses for those unable to attend campus classes. An honorably discharged Army veteran, he joined the Jersey City Fire Department and rose through the ranks from firefighter to deputy chief, and then to acting chief, leading a uniformed force of 650 firefighters and officers. With the exception of his time as Chief of Department, he spent his entire time "in the street" as a line fire officer – including 15 years as a firefighter, lieutenant and captain in two of the city’s busiest ladder companies. He completed a Bachelor of Science from New Jersey City University, a Master of Public Administration from Fairleigh Dickinson University and a Doctorate in Education from New York University (NYU). He taught in the master and doctorate programs in education at NYU for five years. Beginning on Sept. 12, 2001, he led the USFA’s team at the World Trade Center, working behind the scenes to help the New York City Fire Department re-establish their systems of command, control and on-site communications. In 2005, he was sent to Atlanta, Georgia, to lead the in-processing, training and dispatch of 4,000 firefighters to assist in the response to Hurricane Katrina. He served in leadership roles in almost every national disaster. He is the recipient of the Department of Homeland Security Secretary’s Medal for Exceptional Service; the Congressional Fire Services Institute Mason Lankford Leadership Award; the North American Fire Training Director’s Lifetime Achievement Award; the International Association of Fire Chiefs President’s Award for Outstanding Leadership; the James O. Page EMS Achievement Award for Exemplary Leadership; the Metropolitan Fire Chiefs President’s Award of Distinction; the Dr. John Granito Award for Excellence in Fire Leadership and Management Research; the IFSTA Everett Hudiburg Award; the Fire Engineering Lifetime Achievement Award; and the Firehouse Magazine Lifetime Achievement Award. He is a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the International Association of Fire Chiefs. He serves on the Boards of the International Fire Service Training Association, the National Fire Protection Association and the Wellspan Health System.

Leave It Better Than You Found It

With youth, high turnover, and less experience testing most Fire Departments in America, how will we effect the future for the better? How can we create the best environment to develop strong fire companies, future leaders, and just overall great people? This presentation may show the way.

Presenter:  Chris Logan

Presenter Biography:  Chris Logan is a 17 year career firefighter. He currently serves as Company Officer on Engine 1 with the Georgetown (KY) Fire Department. Married to his wife Kate for over 12 years they have two boys Hunter (18) and Wyatt (11). Captain Logan is a student of Leadership and Firefighter development with a passion for creating great people in and out of the firehouse.

Left Seat Tips And Tactics

There is no doubt that the Driver/Engineer is one of the most critical jobs in any fire company. This class is a fast-paced look at effective, time-tested techniques, tricks of the trade and tips for Engineers. We will review tactical considerations on a variety of incidents uniquely from the perspective of the Engineer. The wide variety of incidents a fire company responds to requires the Engineer to be on their game at all times.  This class will impart several, real-world quick tips and will provide valuable training in areas such as booster back-up, positive and static water supply, relay, tandem and dual pumping operations, as well as diagnosing and correcting common (and some not-so-common) problems that Engineers may encounter on scene. Left Seat Tips and Tactics is geared towards current, newly promoted, and step-up engineers, as well as those firefighters seeking to promote and company officers looking to provide quality company level training to their crew. It is also aimed at Training Officers looking to improve their current driver/engineer development programs in their organizations.

Presenter:  Nick Peppard

Presenter Biography:  Nick Peppard is a 19-year student of the craft. Nick is currently a firefighter/paramedic at the Oshkosh (WI) Fire Department. Nick is a founding member of the Rust Belt Jakes training cadre. Nick holds numerous fire service certifications and a bachelor’s degree in Fire Administration from Waldorf University. He has presented at numerous regional and national fire conferences including FDIC, Firehouse Expo, MAFFC, LIFT, Revolutionary Tactics at the Lake and many others. Nick is a founding member and training chair of the Old-Fashioned FOOLS, is a founding member of the Sawdust City Fire Expo and is co-host of the Make Due: Suburban Fireman Podcast with Sean Duffy of Build Your Culture. He is a published author with Fire Engineering Magazine and is a proud member of IAFF Local #316. He is very passionate about training and helping others better themselves so that we can all better fulfill our oath to serve and protect THEM. The Rust Belt Jakes training cadre was established in 2022 by Nick Peppard, Marc Aloan.

Management Of The Agitated Patient

The management of the agitated patient has received increasing attention in recent years, in part because of some tragic outcomes when law enforcement and fire/rescue providers are confronted with agitated patients. What are the best strategies for approaching these situations to ensure the safety of all of those involved? The discussion will include medical as well as non-medical interventions.

Presenter:  George Lindbeck, MD

Presenter Biography:  Virginia State EMS Medical Director

The Power Of Five: Stress First Aid Leading Actions

Company Officers are perfectly positioned to have maximum impact on the health and wellness of their crew.  This workshop will explore the research-based five elements of well-being and the five elements that company officers can employ to build resilience on a day-to-day basis and help their crew get through challenging situations.  The same actions help leaders handle stress reactions in themselves so they can be effective in their roles.  These elements are the foundation of Stress First Aid, but previous knowledge or training in Stress First Aid is not required.

Presenter(s):  Vickie Taylor and Lisa DeMarco Tilley

Presenter(s) Biography:  Vickie H. Taylor, LCSW, is the Director of the Prince William County Public Safety Resilience Center, a counseling unit created in 2016 and funded by Prince William County government to serve law enforcement officers, corrections, firefighters, paramedics and 9-1-1 tele-communicators. Prior to assuming this position, Ms. Taylor worked in community behavioral health for 36 years at Prince William County Community Services. In 1985, she began providing behavioral health consultation to the public safety agencies in Prince William County, VA. She also works on a contract basis with the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation as a trainer, behavioral health consultant, and the coordinator of the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Week-end Family Day. She is a contributing author and trainer of Stress First Aid for Firefighters and Emergency Medical Personnel and Stress First Aid for Law Enforcement Personnel.

Lisa DeMarco Tilley, LPC is a Behavioral Health Specialist with the Prince William County Public Safety Resilience Center who has provided behavioral health services for the members of the Prince William Department of Fire and Rescue (DFR) for 10 years. In addition, Ms. Tilley serves as the Clinical Director for the DFR Peer Support Team. Ms. Tilley has more than 25 years of experience providing individual, couples, family and group therapy in community and private counseling settings. In addition to her current position, she is also an Auricular Acupuncture Detox Specialist. She has been providing adjunct holistic care for public safety personnel for more than 15 years guided by the practices of the National Acupuncture and Detoxification Association. Additionally, she has worked as a facilitator with the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) Memorial Weekend Family Day for more than 15 years. Ms. Tilley is certified as a national trainer for SFA through the Center for First Responder Excellence. She provides training to the PWC Department of Fire & Rescue, PWC Police Department and Public Safety Communications, as well as other fire-rescue departments around the country.

Trauma Happens! A Closer Look At Mechanism Of Injury

Trauma doesn't just appear, it happens! Unfortunately for us in EMS, we seldom see it happen, so we are left considering what exactly occurred. Many times we don't understand the full severity of what happened in our absence. This graphic lecture/presentation will examine through slides, video and photos of traumatic accidents what actually transpired, getting in to detail about mechanisms involved in the trauma and results of the accident. To complete the course, a practical discussion of some trauma photos will challenge the provider to make educated guesses on the severity of trauma in the patients they will treat in the field.

Presenter:  Rory Putnam

Presenter Biography:  Rory Putnam is a Paramedic from Windham, ME and the owner of Atlantic Life Safety, an EMS, Emergency Management & Safety education/consulting company in New England. He has over 33 years in private service, municipal and federal government EMS and EMA operations, education and communications management positions and still works in the field for York Ambulance in Maine. He is the EMS Instructor for Biddeford Regional Center of Technology. He has also been published by EMS World Magazine, written peer-reviewed CEU articles, is a frequent state, regional and national speaker and a Lead Paramedic Instructor for EMTS, Inc in northern MA. 

Understanding Stroke: Causes, Mimics, Chameleons, And Treatments

This course is designed to cover the basics of stroke: risk factors, types of strokes, stroke treatments, stroke mimics and other conditions that look like something else but are still strokes.

Presenter:  Kathryn Funk

Presenter Biography:  Kathryn Funk, AGACNP-BC, MSN is the Stroke Registry Coordinator for the Virginia Department of Health. She has also worked as a Neurocritical Care NP at a Comprehensive Stroke Center, a Stroke Program Coordinator , and as a bedside nurse in the neuro ICU and stroke/telemetry unit. Additionally, Kathryn has worked as Disease Specific Stroke Reviewer for the Joint Commission for the past 7 years. She holds Masters in Acute Care Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner and in Nurse Executive Leadership, as well as certifications in Stroke and Neuroscience. She is a past Chair of the Virginia Stroke Coordinators’ Consortium, and an inaugural member of the VA Dept. of Health Stroke Quality Improvement Initiative. She is passionate about raising community awareness about stroke and is also a frequent presenter on stroke topics at local, state, and regional conferences.

Failing To Plan Is Planning To Fail: What's Your Status?

Those dusty books or binders that are hidden in the back of your bookshelf, on the floor balancing that wobbly desk, or serving as your unofficial coffee cup holder contain content that could potentially save lives and minimize damages during an emergency.  The pages within these books contain vital information that has been tested and validated as guidelines on how to respond to the unknown.  This class will help the attendee understand the types of plans agencies should have in place, what should be included, resources for plan assistance, and a practical exercise demonstrating the importance of planning.

Presenter(s):  Kari Magner, Amber Moore, Devin Chinault

Presenter(s) Biography:  Kari has dedicated her life to the first responder and public safety communities since she was 15. She volunteered with her local EMS agency, obtaining her EMT certification, becoming a preceptor, and holding offices within the agency. Kari also worked as an Emergency Communications Officer for 16 years, serving in the role as dispatcher, training officer, assistant supervisor, supervisor, and Quality Assurance Coordinator. She then followed her new passion of merging her first responder knowledge into the Emergency Management field. Kari has strived to erase barriers between agencies who often work together, but rarely plan together. Recognizing the importance of agency cooperation and interoperability, she now focuses on helping EMS agencies and 911 centers to develop Continuity Plans and other emergency plans that will help communities across the Commonwealth be resilient and prepared for the unknown!

As a field responder and dispatcher, Amber has a combined 17 years of experience. She started as an EMT and transitioned into the Communications Center as a dispatcher, continuing her progression to an operations supervisor. Her passion lies with being the vital link between a caller and field crews, and the continuum of knowledge for the Communications Center post call intake/dispatch. With hands on experience during events from a field and communication position, she also served in active roles in the Command Post. Believer of connecting the field providers with the voices behind the headset where every opportunity presents itself. Currently she is the PSAP (911 Center) Specialist and EMD Accreditation Coordinator for the Virgnia Office of EMS in the Division of Emergency Operations.

Devin Chinault is a seasoned rural EMS provider with 13 years of hands-on experience. With over five years of dispatching expertise, Devin has adeptly handled fire, police, and EMS communications, ensuring efficient and effective emergency responses. Their keen interest in emergency management, particularly within EMS agencies, drives their commitment to improving emergency services. Currently, Devin serves as a communications specialist with the Virginia Office of EMS, bringing a wealth of knowledge and a passion for excellence to his role.

Fast Food Restaurant Fires

With over 300,000 fast food restaurants in the U.S., odds are good that your department will respond to a fire in one of them. This class analyzes the dangers of the lightweight/high-speed/low-cost construction techniques used in today's chain restaurants and discusses tactics for safely mitigating fires in the restaurant environment.  

Presenter:  Joseph R. Polenzani

Presenter Biography:  Joseph R. Polenzani began his fire service career 32 years ago as a volunteer with the Ashland City (TN) Fire Dept. In 1998, he became a career firefighter with the Franklin (TN) Fire Dept., where he is currently a battalion chief. He has also served as a volunteer firefighter/engineer with the Williamson County (TN) Rescue Squad. Chief Polenzani has a master's degree in public safety leadership and administration from Arizona State University and is a certified Fire Officer IV, Fire Instructor II, and Advanced EMT. He is a graduate of the Public Safety Leadership Development Program at the University of Denver Daniels College of Business, co-founder of Franklin’s company officer academy, and has been designated as a Chief Fire Officer (CFO) by the Center for Professional Safety Excellence (CPSE). Chief Polenzani has presented classes at numerous conferences, including FDIC International, the Southeastern Association of Fire Chiefs Conference, the Alaska Fire Conference, West Virginia's fire and EMS conference (ESCAPe), the South Atlantic Fire Rescue Expo, Nebraska’s Les Lukert Conference, and the Connecticut State Fire Academy. He has published articles in Fire Engineering magazine and FireEngineering.com, is an instructor for TheFireAcademy.com, and serves as President of the Middle-Tennessee F.O.O.L.S. (a non-profit organization that provides free or low-cost training to firefighters throughout the state).

Foul Ball: Concussion In Sports Injury

When kids get injured in sports it is an issue we are seldom prepared for. We know how to handle the injury, but what about the lasting effects of potential concussion and the seriousness of them? Do we know how to handle a situation where a child or the coach wants to return to play, but we feel there are concerns? Do we know enough to determine what we are seeing for signs and symptoms that may be dangerous to the player? What about coaches, athletic trainers and parents and their knowledge and involvement in the patient's care? This course will help you better understand these injuries and when a kid should go back in to the game or go to the hospital. It will help you to better understand concussion and it's effects on the brain and learn injury grading and how to appropriately treat it including criteria for return to play. So get on the ball and take this class! You'll be better prepared to handle concussion.

Presenter:  Rory Putnam

Presenter Biography:  Rory Putnam is a Paramedic from Windham, ME and the owner of Atlantic Life Safety, an EMS, Emergency Management & Safety education/consulting company in New England. He has over 33 years in private service, municipal and federal government EMS and EMA operations, education and communications management positions and still works in the field for York Ambulance in Maine. He is the EMS Instructor for Biddeford Regional Center of Technology. He has also been published by EMS World Magazine, written peer-reviewed CEU articles, is a frequent state, regional and national speaker and a Lead Paramedic Instructor for EMTS, Inc in northern MA. 

Inside The Firehouse: Understanding The Injuries We Inflict On Each Other

Respect for the fire service is ever present: from the child on the street to the elderly person who calls us to help. Sadly, however, respect within the fire service may be at an all-time low. The injuries we are imposing on each other outpace the trauma of what we encounter or witness on the street. This course examines elements of Moral Suffering like Moral Distress and Moral Injury; how external and internal factors influence the impact of suffering, and how prolonged Moral Suffering is causing members of the fire service to leave, adversely impacting recruitment and retention goals. Join this "ask anything" forum style workshop presented through a unique partnership lens of Behavioral Health and Fire Service Leadership as we discuss strategies to address these deeply impactful and harmful injuries that threaten the fabric of our calling.

Presenter(s):  Michelle Albert, LPC & Matthew Tobia

Presenter(s) Biography:  Michelle is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia who holds undergraduate degrees from the University of Utah and a Masters degree from Argosy University with specialties in Forensics and Trauma. Since 2010, she has worked for the Alexandria City Department of Community and Human Services, where she has held the position of Forensic Services Supervisor since 2012. In this role, she also serves as the Outpatient Competency Restoration Coordinator and the Not Guilty by Reason of Insanity (NGRI) Coordinator. In 2013, Michelle established a private practice, where she focuses on working with first responders, public service personnel, members of the military and their families. Her dedication to this population led her to become a Certified Compassion Fatigue Professional (CCFP) in 2020 and a Certified Clinical Trauma Provider, Level II (CCTP-II) in 2024. Michelle is affiliated with a variety of associations and organizations, including the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Center for Excellence, The Overwatch Collective (TOC), She is a skilled presenter who is deeply invested in providing education and support for first responders and public service personnel. She is dedicated to creating a space for them to learn, grow, and improve their health and wellness while fostering a sense of camaraderie and humor.

Matthew Tobia is the Fire Chief with the City of Harrisonburg (VA) Fire Department and is a 35- year student of emergency services. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Maryland Baltimore County and is a graduate of the Executive Fire Officer program at the National Fire Academy. Matt has served as a member of the Editorial Board for Fire-Rescue Magazine and has authored over 120 articles. He is also the former chair of the IAFC’s Safety, Health and Survival Section, holds the Chief Fire Officer credential and is a member of the Institute of Fire Engineers. Prior to Harrisonburg, Chief Tobia spent 23 years with the Anne Arundel County (MD) Fire Department and four years with Loudoun County (VA) Fire Rescue. Matt began volunteering in south central Pennsylvania in 1987 and is active with the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) and the Mid Atlantic Burn Camp for Children.

Leadership - Lessons From The Line

There are as many leadership theories as there are authors and books, and sometimes, it is difficult to translate theory into practice.    This presentation is not theory, but rather a series of practical leadership skills designed for the leader or those who aspire to be one.  I will identify the leadership behaviors that I've found useful rising through the ranks in the fire service in local government up through senior executive service in the federal government.  In a concluding workshop, participants will identify the leadership traits they most admire and abhor, as well as those leadership skills that they most want to develop in themselves.

Presenter:  Dr. Denis Onieal

Presenter Biography:  As the Deputy United States Fire Administrator, Dr. Denis Onieal was the senior career federal fire official responsible for the day-to-day operation of the United States Fire Administration (USFA) — the annual training of over 140,000 first responders at and through the National Fire Academy; the National Fire Incident Reporting System, which documents and analyzes 28 million fire department emergency responses a year; the USFA’s fire prevention, public information and public education programs; and the 26 campus buildings and the grounds of the historic National Emergency Training Center in Emmitsburg, Maryland. Prior to his appointment as Deputy Fire Administrator, he served as Superintendent of the United States National Fire Academy. During his tenure, the NFA staff increased enrollments from 15,000 to over 100,000 students per year; completely revised all curriculum's so that each course received undergraduate or graduate credit recommendation through the American Council on Education; established a nationwide fire training system in partnership with each State Fire Training Academy; instituted and alliance with over 110 associate and bachelor degree programs to standardize fire degree programs; and launched an on-line training program to include self-paced and instructor led courses for those unable to attend campus classes. An honorably discharged Army veteran, he joined the Jersey City Fire Department and rose through the ranks from firefighter to deputy chief, and then to acting chief, leading a uniformed force of 650 firefighters and officers. With the exception of his time as Chief of Department, he spent his entire time "in the street" as a line fire officer – including 15 years as a firefighter, lieutenant and captain in two of the city’s busiest ladder companies. He completed a Bachelor of Science from New Jersey City University, a Master of Public Administration from Fairleigh Dickinson University and a Doctorate in Education from New York University (NYU). He taught in the master and doctorate programs in education at NYU for five years. Beginning on Sept. 12, 2001, he led the USFA’s team at the World Trade Center, working behind the scenes to help the New York City Fire Department re-establish their systems of command, control and on-site communications. In 2005, he was sent to Atlanta, Georgia, to lead the in-processing, training and dispatch of 4,000 firefighters to assist in the response to Hurricane Katrina. He served in leadership roles in almost every national disaster. He is the recipient of the Department of Homeland Security Secretary’s Medal for Exceptional Service; the Congressional Fire Services Institute Mason Lankford Leadership Award; the North American Fire Training Director’s Lifetime Achievement Award; the International Association of Fire Chiefs President’s Award for Outstanding Leadership; the James O. Page EMS Achievement Award for Exemplary Leadership; the Metropolitan Fire Chiefs President’s Award of Distinction; the Dr. John Granito Award for Excellence in Fire Leadership and Management Research; the IFSTA Everett Hudiburg Award; the Fire Engineering Lifetime Achievement Award; and the Firehouse Magazine Lifetime Achievement Award. He is a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the International Association of Fire Chiefs. He serves on the Boards of the International Fire Service Training Association, the National Fire Protection Association and the Wellspan Health System.

Management Of The Agitated Patient

The management of the agitated patient has received increasing attention in recent years, in part because of some tragic outcomes when law enforcement and fire/rescue providers are confronted with agitated patients. What are the best strategies for approaching these situations to ensure the safety of all of those involved? The discussion will include medical as well as non-medical interventions.

Presenter:  George Lindbeck, MD

Presenter Biography:  Virginia State EMS Medical Director

Understanding Stroke: Causes, Mimics, Chameleons, And Treatments

This course is designed to cover the basics of stroke: risk factors, types of strokes, stroke treatments, stroke mimics and other conditions that look like something else but are still strokes.

Presenter:  Kathryn Funk

Presenter Biography:  Kathryn Funk, AGACNP-BC, MSN is the Stroke Registry Coordinator for the Virginia Department of Health. She has also worked as a Neurocritical Care NP at a Comprehensive Stroke Center, a Stroke Program Coordinator , and as a bedside nurse in the neuro ICU and stroke/telemetry unit. Additionally, Kathryn has worked as Disease Specific Stroke Reviewer for the Joint Commission for the past 7 years. She holds Masters in Acute Care Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner and in Nurse Executive Leadership, as well as certifications in Stroke and Neuroscience. She is a past Chair of the Virginia Stroke Coordinators’ Consortium, and an inaugural member of the VA Dept. of Health Stroke Quality Improvement Initiative. She is passionate about raising community awareness about stroke and is also a frequent presenter on stroke topics at local, state, and regional conferences.

Engine Operations School - HOT Program 2-Day 16 Hour Course

Truck Fundamentals School - HOT Program 2-Day 16 Hour Course

Company Officer School - HOT Program 2-Day 16 Hour Course

Chief Officer School - HOT Program 2-Day 16 Hour Course

EMS Operations - HOT Program 2-Day 16 Hour Course

Federal - Military Section Day

Session Agenda Coming Soon.

Can't We All Just Get Along? The Comm Vs The Field

Bridging the gap between field responders and the Communications Center. Presenting on how PSAP personnel and field responders manage mental health differently, yet the similar. How can you help calm the chaos between dispatch and the field, and how can dispatch calm your chaos? Open discussion on how the field responders can make a positive impact on the Communications center. Deepen discussion on how and why including dispatch into debriefs on serious calls is vital to their well-being and looping them in post-call in lieu of no debriefing. Sharing hardships, challenges and fears from the Communications standpoint, Field view to the PSAP, and how some can be mitigated with the help from both sides.

Presenter(s):  Kari Magner & Amber Moore

Presenter(s) Biography:  Kari has dedicated her life to the first responder and public safety communities since she was 15. She volunteered with her local EMS agency, obtaining her EMT certification, becoming a preceptor, and holding offices within the agency. Kari also worked as an Emergency Communications Officer for 16 years, serving in the role as dispatcher, training officer, assistant supervisor, supervisor, and Quality Assurance Coordinator. She then followed her new passion of merging her first responder knowledge into the Emergency Management field. Kari has strived to erase barriers between agencies who often work together, but rarely plan together. Recognizing the importance of agency cooperation and interoperability, she now focuses on helping EMS agencies and 911 centers to develop Continuity Plans and other emergency plans that will help communities across the Commonwealth be resilient and prepared for the unknown!

As a field responder and dispatcher, Amber has a combined 17 years of experience. She started as an EMT and transitioned into the Communications Center as a dispatcher, continuing her progression to an operations supervisor. Her passion lies with being the vital link between a caller and field crews, and the continuum of knowledge for the Communications Center post call intake/dispatch. With hands on experience during events from a field and communication position, she also served in active roles in the Command Post. Believer of connecting the field providers with the voices behind the headset where every opportunity presents itself. Currently she is the PSAP (911 Center) Specialist and EMD Accreditation Coordinator for the Virgnia Office of EMS in the Division of Emergency Operations.

Creating And Refining A Fire Academy: The Role Of The Training Officer

If your training academy has been stripped of all the cultural values that make great firefighters, or if your department never had it to begin with, this workshop is for you.  This workshop wraps the key cultural aspects of brother/sisterhood into your training curriculum, from the most important historical origins for the fire service to modern disciplinary processes for recruits to develop model firefighter behaviors.  Attendees will leave with HR-friendly turn-key examples that they can take back and implement immediately.    The fire service is ready for a back-to-basics approach to training recruit firefighters.  A fire academy is much more than gaining certifications.  It's about incoming personnel learning the values and behaviors that make great firefighters.  This program shows how training officers can model desired firefighter behaviors and hold recruits accountable in a way that is acceptable to modern human resources practices.

Presenter(s):  Bobby Drake & Eddie Buchanan

Presenter(s) Biography:  Bobby Drake is an Operations Battalion Chief with the Hanover Fire-EMS Department in Hanover, VA. Throughout his career he has served as a Recruit Academy Instructor, Co-Author of “The Training Officer’s Handbook,” a member of the NFPA Fire Services Training Technical Committee and a graduate and staff member of the Virginia Fire Officer Academy.

Eddie Buchanan began his fire service career in 1982 and retired as an assistant chief with Hanover Fire & EMS in Richmond, VA. He is a past president of the International Society of Fire Service Instructors and is the 2015 recipient of the George D. Post, Instructor of the Year Award from the ISFSI. He serves on the executive advisory board of Fire Engineering Magazine and FDIC and is co-author of the Training Officer’s Handbook and author of the Volunteer Training Officer's Handbook from Fire Engineering Books & Videos. He served on the NFPA Technical Committee on Fire Service Training and the NFPA 1700: “Guide for Structural Firefighting” Committee and the Technical Committee for Fire Services Training. He is a past board member of the Volunteer/Combination Officer's Section of the International Association of Fire Chiefs and serves on various advisory boards and committees for the fire service industry. He is the host of the Fire Service Data & Tech Talk Podcast on Fire Engineering.

VDFP - 1033 (LE) - Recertification Course - Use Of Force/Control Tactics Sustainment/Refresher Training

VDFP - 1033 (LE) - Re-certification Course - Use of Force/Control Tactics Sustainment/Refresher Training

Virginia Fire Rescue Conference - Opening & Awards Ceremony

Agenday coming soon!

Dive! Dive! Dive!

An overview of the physiologic changes that happen to human body when diving at depths, as well as discussion of the pathology and injury pattern for various diving related injuries.  We will also discuss field treatment and basics of Emergency Department treatment and Hyperbaric chamber use.

Presenter:  Joseph Lang, MD FACEP, ABEM-EMS

Presenter Biography:  Dr. Lang is the Program Director of the EMS Fellowship at Eastern Virginia Medical School, and is currently an Assistant Professor in the Department of Emergency Medicine at EVMS. He is a Partner with Emergency Physicians of Tidewater and works mainly in the ED at Sentara Leigh Emergency Department. He is Board Certified in Emergency Medicine and Sub-Specialty certified in Emergency Medicine Services. He currently serves as the Medical Director for the FBI Regional SWAT Team in Norfolk, and was Tactical Medic with Portsmouth Police SWAT for 14 years.

Dropping The Shield

A powerful and interactive workshop designed specifically for first responders and their families as they experience the unique challenges inside and outside the yellow tape. As a seasoned 21 plus year recently retired Lieutenant of the fire service, Kenny knows all too well the struggles you face firsthand. By sharing his own personal struggles with mental health setbacks and his signature HELP acronym, he guides you through understanding and healing to empower you to navigate life's challenges with newfound strength, resilience and clarity. Develop skills to identify potential issues in yourself and your colleagues before they escalate. Gain knowledge about common mental health issues faced by first responders and their families. Discover coping mechanisms for managing stress, anxiety, and depression. Learn how to support others and cultivate a culture of proactive mental health within your team. Gain confidence in seeking help and navigating the mental health system. Build a strong support network in and outside of the First Responder community. Having witnessed the devastating impact of trauma as a first responder, I have dedicated my next chapter in life to providing support and hope to those affected. Through Operation Yellow Tape, I am creating a platform that brings together first responders, and their family and friends to break the stigma of mental health struggles making it okay to get the help they need and deserve.

Presenter:  Kenny Mitchell Jr.

Presenter Biography:   Lt. Kenny Mitchell Jr (ret) began his fire service career in 2002 with The Virginia Beach Fire Department. Kenny was assigned to Fire Station 4 and served on the MIRT (Marine Incident Response Team) his entire time with VBFD. In 2007 he relocated to Chesterfield, Virginia where he was employed with Chesterfield County Fire & EMS until April 1, 2024, when he retired as a Lieutenant after nearly 22 years. 

Essentials Of Fire Chaplaincy - 2-Day 16 Hour Course

This course, created by the Federation of Fire Chaplains, provides an opportunity for everyone –experienced chaplains, new chaplains, and prospective chaplains alike – to learn valuable lessons about Fire Chaplaincy. The class consists of 16 hours of instruction, on two consecutive days, covering the following areas:

• The Foundations of Fire Chaplaincy
• Personhood of the Fire Chaplain
• Fire Chaplain’s Ministry to Firefighters
• Fire Chaplain’s Ministry to People in Crisis
• Beginning a Fire Department Chaplaincy
• Operations
• Stress Management
• Firefighter Injury or Death /Death Notification
• Fire Department Funerals

Presenter(s):  John Long & Jimmie Duncan

Presenter(s) Biography:  John F. Long, Jr. has been a firefighter since 1975. Starting his service with the United Fire Company of Montrose, Pennsylvania. He enlisted in the United States Coast Guard in 1978 and served as a Chief Electronics Technician until his retirement in 1998. John is certified as a Fire Officer III, and Fire Instructor III. He has held all of the Line Officers positions and is currently serving as the President of the Ferndale Volunteer Fire Company in Glen Burnie, MD. John started serving as a Fire Chaplain when he was elected to the position with the Anne Arundel County Volunteer Firefighters Association in 2002. In 2003 he was appointed as a Chaplain with the Maryland State Firemen's Association and was elected Chief Chaplain in 2005, a position he currently holds. He was appointed Chaplain with the Anne Arundel County Fire Department in 2006 and is currently serving as Chaplain One for the combination department. He has been a member of the Federation since 2005 and has since completed his Advanced Chaplaincy Certificate and serves as an Instructor. John served as a Deacon with the Lake Shore Baptist Church in Pasadena, MD, and was ordained for service as a Chaplain in 2004. He is married to Mary K. (Kathy) Long since 1979, and they have two boys Daniel , and Adam, and two grandchildren. 

Jimmie R. Duncan, Jr. became the Executive Director of the Federation of Fire Chaplains March 1, 2020. He has been a member of the Fire Service since 1987, joining the Irving (Texas) Fire Department Jun 15 of that year. He subsequently retired in 2019 after 32 years of service. He holds a Master Firefighter Certification from the State of Texas, he was a licensed paramedic (1991-2020), and also holds certificates in High Angle Rescue I and II, Confined Space Rescue, and Trench Rescue and is a certified Instructor. Jimmie also holds numerous certificates from the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation, which includes a Certificate of Specialized Training in the area of Pastoral Crisis Intervention. Jimmie served as the Chaplain and  Critical Incident Stress Management coordinator for his department for 20 years. Jimmie is one of the founding members and President of the Texas Corps of Fire Chaplains and is a member of the Texas Line of Duty Task Force. He holds a BA degree in Religion from Gardner-Webb College (Now University). Jimmie Currently resides in Irving, Texas with his wife, Cindy. 

Fire Officer Decision-Making: From Theory To Practice

For fire officers, split-second choices can mean the difference between safety and danger, success and setback. However, decision-making is both an art and a science. This class is designed for firefighters and officers looking to elevate their leadership skills and hone their ability to navigate the complexities of both emergency response scenarios and day-to-day personnel issues. Throughout this training, participants will delve into a range of topics essential to effective management and decision-making. Utilizing real-world case studies and simulations, we will discuss how to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations. Discussions will center on prioritizing objectives under pressure, communicating clearly amidst chaos, and adapting strategies in dynamic environments. Participants will emerge with a heightened understanding of leadership in crisis situations, equipped with the tools to make informed decisions swiftly and decisively. This class isn't just about learning; it's about preparing you to lead confidently when careers, lives, and property are on the line.  

Presenter:  Joseph R. Polenzani

Presenter Biography:  Joseph R. Polenzani began his fire service career 32 years ago as a volunteer with the Ashland City (TN) Fire Dept. In 1998, he became a career firefighter with the Franklin (TN) Fire Dept., where he is currently a battalion chief. He has also served as a volunteer firefighter/engineer with the Williamson County (TN) Rescue Squad. Chief Polenzani has a master's degree in public safety leadership and administration from Arizona State University and is a certified Fire Officer IV, Fire Instructor II, and Advanced EMT. He is a graduate of the Public Safety Leadership Development Program at the University of Denver Daniels College of Business, co-founder of Franklin’s company officer academy, and has been designated as a Chief Fire Officer (CFO) by the Center for Professional Safety Excellence (CPSE). Chief Polenzani has presented classes at numerous conferences, including FDIC International, the Southeastern Association of Fire Chiefs Conference, the Alaska Fire Conference, West Virginia's fire and EMS conference (ESCAPe), the South Atlantic Fire Rescue Expo, Nebraska’s Les Lukert Conference, and the Connecticut State Fire Academy. He has published articles in Fire Engineering magazine and FireEngineering.com, is an instructor for TheFireAcademy.com, and serves as President of the Middle-Tennessee F.O.O.L.S. (a non-profit organization that provides free or low-cost training to firefighters throughout the state).

Guidelines For Prehospital Pain Management

A review of a recent project that developed evidence based guidelines for pain management for pre hospital providers. What are the options available and what are the best strategies for pain management in the pre hospital environment?

Presenter:  George Lindbeck, MD

Presenter Biography:  Virginia State EMS Medical Director

Shock Attack

Emphasizing how to differentiate between cardiogenic shock and others forms of shock in the field.  Discusses progression of care from Pre-Arrival to ECMO.

Presenter(s):  Colleen Kupesky, MSN, CNS, CCRN, CSC & Megan Vaughan, MSN, RN

Presenter(s) Biography:  Colleen has been a nurse for 30 years with primary experience in cardiac surgery ICU. Specializing as CNS for cardiovascular critical care for 3 years.

Megan Vaughan is a critical care nurse with over 10 years experience. Specializes in Quality Analytics and Process Improvement Strategies for the Cardiovascular Care Continuum

Side Charlie Engine Operations

Often, the most underappreciated and underutilized tactic on the fireground is an Engine Company operating on the Charlie side. The company assigned to the rear has the ability to secure a secondary water supply stretch additional attack lines that do not interfere with the primary attack lines. Being assigned to engine company in the rear is a huge responsibility because you have to often times get creative on how you are going to accomplish these tasks.  Side Charlie Engine Operations is designed to cover all aspects of operating in the rear of a structure. participants will learn how to integrate this concept into current SOGs and build their Engine Company both operationally and culturally to fulfill the role of the Side Charlie Engine Company. We will cover various topics including water supply considerations, where when and how to place attack lines and tactical considerations.

Presenter:  Brandon Chapman

Presenter Biography:  Brandon Chapman has 15 years of career and volunteer experience and currently serves as a Fireman on Engine 17 in the city of Pittsburgh, He also holds the title of Assistant Fire Chief for the Stowe Township Fire Department and is a Fireman for the West Lanham Hills volunteer Fire Company 28 of Prince Georges County Maryland. Brandon Is a PA State Suppression instructor, teaches recruit School for the city of Pittsburgh and is also a lead instructor for the Butler County community college. he shares expertise in fire suppression specifically through the engine company. Brandon is a Co-founder and instructor for GRIT Fire Training LLC, he actively contributes to the development of comprehensive training programs to promote firemanship through training.

The Tactical Engine (Reloaded)

The Tactical Engine (Reloaded) is a down and dirty look at the blue-collar fundamentals of aggressive engine work. This recently updated class has been stripped down, overhauled and restructured to add more technical knowledge, real world scenarios and dynamic discussion points. This class will examine effective tactics for first-alarm assignment engine companies. It will explore efficiently performing essential fireground tasks, will delve into tactical priorities and will examine fireground decision making. The class will also address truck work for engines that don't have the luxury of properly staffed truck companies arriving in a timely manner. Subjects covered will include attributes and foundational principles of building a high-performing engine company, size up, initial actions, water supply considerations, the engine search, forcible entry, coordinated ventilation, riding assignments, weapon selection, hose line management, and how to maximize limited staffing/resources in various operational arenas. This class is geared toward those looking to maximize the performance of their engine company.

Presenter:  Nick Peppard

Presenter Biography:  Nick Peppard is a 19-year student of the craft. Nick is currently a firefighter/paramedic at the Oshkosh (WI) Fire Department. Nick is a founding member of the Rust Belt Jakes training cadre. Nick holds numerous fire service certifications and a bachelor’s degree in Fire Administration from Waldorf University. He has presented at numerous regional and national fire conferences including FDIC, Firehouse Expo, MAFFC, LIFT, Revolutionary Tactics at the Lake and many others. Nick is a founding member and training chair of the Old-Fashioned FOOLS, is a founding member of the Sawdust City Fire Expo and is co-host of the Make Due: Suburban Fireman Podcast with Sean Duffy of Build Your Culture. He is a published author with Fire Engineering Magazine and is a proud member of IAFF Local #316. He is very passionate about training and helping others better themselves so that we can all better fulfill our oath to serve and protect THEM. The Rust Belt Jakes training cadre was established in 2022 by Nick Peppard, Marc Aloan.

We Are Gonna Pump You Up! VAD Devices And Artificial Hearts

As technology advances to keep patients alive and preserve a good quality life, transplants still remain unable to meet demand so we have seen an increase in VAD devices and Artificial Hearts, as well as Impella devices and other mechanical adjuncts which cardiologists can use to increase survival in at least the short term while patients wait for a transplant. This class will explore the science behind how these technological miracles work, why they are used, the criteria behind them and the amazing history that led to their invention. We will look closely at different models and discuss in detail what providers can expect to see for presentation, complications and how to troubleshoot them and get the patients the specialized care they need when the devices don't work the way they are supposed to in order to buy these people another chance at life.

Presenter:  Rory Putnam

Presenter Biography:  Rory Putnam is a Paramedic from Windham, ME and the owner of Atlantic Life Safety, an EMS, Emergency Management & Safety education/consulting company in New England. He has over 33 years in private service, municipal and federal government EMS and EMA operations, education and communications management positions and still works in the field for York Ambulance in Maine. He is the EMS Instructor for Biddeford Regional Center of Technology. He has also been published by EMS World Magazine, written peer-reviewed CEU articles, is a frequent state, regional and national speaker and a Lead Paramedic Instructor for EMTS, Inc in northern MA. 

Can't We All Just Get Along? The Comm Vs The Field

Bridging the gap between field responders and the Communications Center. Presenting on how PSAP personnel and field responders manage mental health differently, yet the similar. How can you help calm the chaos between dispatch and the field, and how can dispatch calm your chaos? Open discussion on how the field responders can make a positive impact on the Communications center. Deepen discussion on how and why including dispatch into debriefs on serious calls is vital to their well-being and looping them in post-call in lieu of no debriefing. Sharing hardships, challenges and fears from the Communications standpoint, Field view to the PSAP, and how some can be mitigated with the help from both sides.

Presenter(s):  Kari Magner & Amber Moore

Presenter(s) Biography:  Kari has dedicated her life to the first responder and public safety communities since she was 15. She volunteered with her local EMS agency, obtaining her EMT certification, becoming a preceptor, and holding offices within the agency. Kari also worked as an Emergency Communications Officer for 16 years, serving in the role as dispatcher, training officer, assistant supervisor, supervisor, and Quality Assurance Coordinator. She then followed her new passion of merging her first responder knowledge into the Emergency Management field. Kari has strived to erase barriers between agencies who often work together, but rarely plan together. Recognizing the importance of agency cooperation and interoperability, she now focuses on helping EMS agencies and 911 centers to develop Continuity Plans and other emergency plans that will help communities across the Commonwealth be resilient and prepared for the unknown!

As a field responder and dispatcher, Amber has a combined 17 years of experience. She started as an EMT and transitioned into the Communications Center as a dispatcher, continuing her progression to an operations supervisor. Her passion lies with being the vital link between a caller and field crews, and the continuum of knowledge for the Communications Center post call intake/dispatch. With hands on experience during events from a field and communication position, she also served in active roles in the Command Post. Believer of connecting the field providers with the voices behind the headset where every opportunity presents itself. Currently she is the PSAP (911 Center) Specialist and EMD Accreditation Coordinator for the Virgnia Office of EMS in the Division of Emergency Operations.

Dive! Dive! Dive!

An overview of the physiologic changes that happen to human body when diving at depths, as well as discussion of the pathology and injury pattern for various diving related injuries.  We will also discuss field treatment and basics of Emergency Department treatment and Hyperbaric chamber use.

Presenter:  Joseph Lang, MD FACEP, ABEM-EMS

Presenter Biography:  Dr. Lang is the Program Director of the EMS Fellowship at Eastern Virginia Medical School, and is currently an Assistant Professor in the Department of Emergency Medicine at EVMS. He is a Partner with Emergency Physicians of Tidewater and works mainly in the ED at Sentara Leigh Emergency Department. He is Board Certified in Emergency Medicine and Sub-Specialty certified in Emergency Medicine Services. He currently serves as the Medical Director for the FBI Regional SWAT Team in Norfolk, and was Tactical Medic with Portsmouth Police SWAT for 14 years.

Dropping The Shield

A powerful and interactive workshop designed specifically for first responders and their families as they experience the unique challenges inside and outside the yellow tape. As a seasoned 21 plus year recently retired Lieutenant of the fire service, Kenny knows all too well the struggles you face firsthand. By sharing his own personal struggles with mental health setbacks and his signature HELP acronym, he guides you through understanding and healing to empower you to navigate life's challenges with newfound strength, resilience and clarity. Develop skills to identify potential issues in yourself and your colleagues before they escalate. Gain knowledge about common mental health issues faced by first responders and their families. Discover coping mechanisms for managing stress, anxiety, and depression. Learn how to support others and cultivate a culture of proactive mental health within your team. Gain confidence in seeking help and navigating the mental health system. Build a strong support network in and outside of the First Responder community. Having witnessed the devastating impact of trauma as a first responder, I have dedicated my next chapter in life to providing support and hope to those affected. Through Operation Yellow Tape, I am creating a platform that brings together first responders, and their family and friends to break the stigma of mental health struggles making it okay to get the help they need and deserve.

Presenter:  Kenny Mitchell Jr.

Presenter Biography:   Lt. Kenny Mitchell Jr (ret) began his fire service career in 2002 with The Virginia Beach Fire Department. Kenny was assigned to Fire Station 4 and served on the MIRT (Marine Incident Response Team) his entire time with VBFD. In 2007 he relocated to Chesterfield, Virginia where he was employed with Chesterfield County Fire & EMS until April 1, 2024, when he retired as a Lieutenant after nearly 22 years. 

Fire Officer Decision-Making: From Theory To Practice

For fire officers, split-second choices can mean the difference between safety and danger, success and setback. However, decision-making is both an art and a science. This class is designed for firefighters and officers looking to elevate their leadership skills and hone their ability to navigate the complexities of both emergency response scenarios and day-to-day personnel issues. Throughout this training, participants will delve into a range of topics essential to effective management and decision-making. Utilizing real-world case studies and simulations, we will discuss how to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations. Discussions will center on prioritizing objectives under pressure, communicating clearly amidst chaos, and adapting strategies in dynamic environments. Participants will emerge with a heightened understanding of leadership in crisis situations, equipped with the tools to make informed decisions swiftly and decisively. This class isn't just about learning; it's about preparing you to lead confidently when careers, lives, and property are on the line.  

Presenter:  Joseph R. Polenzani

Presenter Biography:  Joseph R. Polenzani began his fire service career 32 years ago as a volunteer with the Ashland City (TN) Fire Dept. In 1998, he became a career firefighter with the Franklin (TN) Fire Dept., where he is currently a battalion chief. He has also served as a volunteer firefighter/engineer with the Williamson County (TN) Rescue Squad. Chief Polenzani has a master's degree in public safety leadership and administration from Arizona State University and is a certified Fire Officer IV, Fire Instructor II, and Advanced EMT. He is a graduate of the Public Safety Leadership Development Program at the University of Denver Daniels College of Business, co-founder of Franklin’s company officer academy, and has been designated as a Chief Fire Officer (CFO) by the Center for Professional Safety Excellence (CPSE). Chief Polenzani has presented classes at numerous conferences, including FDIC International, the Southeastern Association of Fire Chiefs Conference, the Alaska Fire Conference, West Virginia's fire and EMS conference (ESCAPe), the South Atlantic Fire Rescue Expo, Nebraska’s Les Lukert Conference, and the Connecticut State Fire Academy. He has published articles in Fire Engineering magazine and FireEngineering.com, is an instructor for TheFireAcademy.com, and serves as President of the Middle-Tennessee F.O.O.L.S. (a non-profit organization that provides free or low-cost training to firefighters throughout the state).

Guidelines For Prehospital Pain Management

A review of a recent project that developed evidence based guidelines for pain management for pre-hospital providers. What are the options available and what are the best strategies for pain management in the pre-hospital environment?

Presenter:  George Lindbeck, MD

Presenter Biography:  Virginia State EMS Medical Director

Rule # 1, Cardio: Surviving Lifes Rare Cardiac Diseases

Like the guys on the movie "Zombieland" said, it's all about Rule # 1, Cardio! But we won't make you run away from Zombies here! Come join this fun class and we'll explore some of the rare cardiac diseases that can cause issues with our patients and can show on an EKG. Cardiac problems are still the number one killer of people in the United States so learning more about these different conditions can help you become a better clinician and develop the tools you need to recognize and treat them. We'll delve into disorders caused by congenital defects as well as sports-induced problems and difficult to diagnose MI's. Treatment and diagnostic tools like 15 and 18 lead EKG's will be taught and a practical experience will be provided. So come learn why even Zombie fighters need to know Cardio!

Presenter:  Rory Putnam

Presenter Biography:  Rory Putnam is a Paramedic from Windham, ME and the owner of Atlantic Life Safety, an EMS, Emergency Management & Safety education/consulting company in New England. He has over 33 years in private service, municipal and federal government EMS and EMA operations, education and communications management positions and still works in the field for York Ambulance in Maine. He is the EMS Instructor for Biddeford Regional Center of Technology. He has also been published by EMS World Magazine, written peer-reviewed CEU articles, is a frequent state, regional and national speaker and a Lead Paramedic Instructor for EMTS, Inc in northern MA. 

Shock Attack

Emphasizing how to differentiate between cardiogenic shock and others forms of shock in the field.  Discusses progression of care from Pre-Arrival to ECMO.

Presenter(s):  Colleen Kupesky, MSN, CNS, CCRN, CSC & Megan Vaughan, MSN, RN

Presenter(s) Biography:  Colleen has been a nurse for 30 years with primary experience in cardiac surgery ICU. Specializing as CNS for cardiovascular critical care for 3 years.

Megan Vaughan is a critical care nurse with over 10 years experience. Specializes in Quality Analytics and Process Improvement Strategies for the Cardiovascular Care Continuum

Cardiac Chameleons: When The EKG Changes In Your Stroke Patient

A stroke is unique in presentation, but we sometimes forget that it is still created by cardiovascular disease issues. Because of this we can expect to see EKG changes in our patients, though most EMS providers will seldom look for them. Unfortunately, many of these can be sudden and unexpected as we are concentrating on the patient's stroke symptoms. This class will explore common EKG changes we can see in stroke patients while reiterating the importance of good diagnosis, early recognition and treatment. Emphasis will be placed on case studies and identifying the EKG changes that are typically seen with stroke so you can better care for these high risk patients for better outcomes!

Presenter:  Rory Putnam

Presenter Biography:  Rory Putnam is a Paramedic from Windham, ME and the owner of Atlantic Life Safety, an EMS, Emergency Management & Safety education/consulting company in New England. He has over 33 years in private service, municipal and federal government EMS and EMA operations, education and communications management positions and still works in the field for York Ambulance in Maine. He is the EMS Instructor for Biddeford Regional Center of Technology. He has also been published by EMS World Magazine, written peer-reviewed CEU articles, is a frequent state, regional and national speaker and a Lead Paramedic Instructor for EMTS, Inc in northern MA. 

Creating And Refining A Fire Academy: The Role Of The Training Officer

If your training academy has been stripped of all the cultural values that make great firefighters, or if your department never had it to begin with, this workshop is for you.  This workshop wraps the key cultural aspects of brother/sisterhood into your training curriculum, from the most important historical origins for the fire service to modern disciplinary processes for recruits to develop model firefighter behaviors.  Attendees will leave with HR-friendly turn-key examples that they can take back and implement immediately.    The fire service is ready for a back-to-basics approach to training recruit firefighters.  A fire academy is much more than gaining certifications.  It's about incoming personnel learning the values and behaviors that make great firefighters.  This program shows how training officers can model desired firefighter behaviors and hold recruits accountable in a way that is acceptable to modern human resources practices.

Presenter(s):  Bobby Drake & Eddie Buchanan

Presenter(s) Biography:  Bobby Drake is an Operations Battalion Chief with the Hanover Fire-EMS Department in Hanover, VA. Throughout his career he has served as a Recruit Academy Instructor, Co-Author of “The Training Officer’s Handbook,” a member of the NFPA Fire Services Training Technical Committee and a graduate and staff member of the Virginia Fire Officer Academy.

Eddie Buchanan began his fire service career in 1982 and retired as an assistant chief with Hanover Fire & EMS in Richmond, VA. He is a past president of the International Society of Fire Service Instructors and is the 2015 recipient of the George D. Post, Instructor of the Year Award from the ISFSI. He serves on the executive advisory board of Fire Engineering Magazine and FDIC and is co-author of the Training Officer’s Handbook and author of the Volunteer Training Officer's Handbook from Fire Engineering Books & Videos. He served on the NFPA Technical Committee on Fire Service Training and the NFPA 1700: “Guide for Structural Firefighting” Committee and the Technical Committee for Fire Services Training. He is a past board member of the Volunteer/Combination Officer's Section of the International Association of Fire Chiefs and serves on various advisory boards and committees for the fire service industry. He is the host of the Fire Service Data & Tech Talk Podcast on Fire Engineering.

EHAC & STEMI Metrics: How Pre-Arrival Care Affects Patient Outcomes

Discuss the impact of Early Heart Attack Care, Community Outreach/Education, and Pre-Arrival Care affect Patient Outcomes; Identifies EMS documentation that is submitted for Quality Analytics and Process Improvement Opportunities for STEMI Care; Describes the importance and impact of Pre-Arrival EKG Transmission services.

Guidelines For Prehospital Airway Management

A review of a recent project that developed evidence based guidelines for airway management for pre-hospital providers. What are the options and devices available and what are the best strategies for airway management in the pre-hospital environment?

Presenter:  George Lindbeck, MD

Presenter Biography:  Virginia State EMS Medical Director

The Command Mindset

Listed consistently in after action, close call, and line of duty death reports is the lack of clear command and control. What is not offered is the root causes of why sound and consistent command and control was not executed. Nor is training or clear and tangible examples an incident commander can use to understand where their command and control faltered or how they can improve. This class provides the “why” and the “how” behind becoming a better incident commander. Delivered from a 28-year veteran Chief officer that has served as a Company officer, Battalion Chief, Deputy Chief, and Chief of Operations in a large metro department that responds to over 130,000 incidents a year. Learning the fundamental building blocks that build and support a strong incident commander is paramount to operational success on the fireground. This class will cover leadership, impact of stress on your performance, 3 keys to strong and successful incident command, and how to terminate an incident correctly and provide feedback to foster future success.

Playing With Fire

This lecture will cover the use of a Cyanokit in a pre hospital setting. Much of the content, however, will be applicable to clinical staff in hospitals. The use of a Cyanokit can be a daunting multi step process that can be confusing for providers often times. This lecture will cover: indications for use of Cyanokit, how to assemble/mix, dosage/volume discussion, case studies from local departments in Texas that are utilizing this product, mechanism of action and potential side effects during use, and special considerations in regards to advanced airway management in the acutely injured airway patient. For a critical care portion, the use of Cyanokit in conjunction with pressors will be discussed. Cyanokit is a nitric oxide scavenger, and will limit vasodilation, thus, allowing primary first-line pressor dosages to be reduced.   LO1- identify the indications for use of a Cyanokit. LO2- identify different sources /causes of cyanide poisoning. LO3- identify the indications for advanced airway management/techniques for airway injuries and why it is important to be performed in conjunction with Cyanokit administration. LO4- Be able to efficiently assemble and infuse the correct volume/dose of the Cyanokit.

Presenter:  Anthony Henry. Paramedic, CCP, TP-C

Presenter Biography:  Anthony Henry started his career in EMS in 2012. In 2014 attended the Paramedic program at Mercy College of Health Sciences in Des Moines, Iowa. In 2016, Anthony attended the University of Iowa's (go Hawks) critical care program and gained a critical care endorsement. Shortly after, Anthony moved to Texas and has been employed with the Baytown Fire Department as a Firefighter/Paramedic. In 2020, Anthony was hired as a Flight Paramedic with HCA AirLIFE Houston and started moving into multiple education rolls at his places of employment and FOAMed. Fire and Medicine are both passions of Anthony, and this lecture includes the best of both worlds.

Running Scared: Risk Management NOT Risk Aversion

 “Risk a lot to save a lot.” “Our safety is our number one priority.” “Hit it hard from the yard!” “Roof ops are too dangerous!” “Never trust a truss.” “It’s not my emergency.” “Community risk reduction.” “Vacant buildings are too dangerous to commit personnel to the interior.” “Clean cabs don’t make grabs!” Survivability profiling. Transitional attack. Risk/Benefit Analysis. 2-in/2-out…and the list goes on and on! If you’ve been around the fire service for any length of time then you’ve probably at least heard of and, in many cases, discussed (sometimes animatedly) these concepts, terms and mindsets. While many of these concepts were well-intended and may even contain some fundamental truths, they have often been distorted and used as cultural weapons within our industry. The fire service seems to be experiencing a state of contrast, contention and, at times, even conflict these days. At the center of that contention is a battle for the very fabric of who we are and why we exist. As the fire service seems to be creeping closer and closer to white collar business practices and continues to say “yes” to more diversified service models, many are left wondering what is happening to our identity and future as firefighters. With many on both sides of the aisle passionately declaring their positions on safety, incident priorities and risk management, it is important now more than ever that we take a real, honest look at what our citizens want and expect from us as the American fire service. We mustn't base our decisions on anecdote, emotional vitriol, or feelings, but rather on real data, hard numbers, and a unified mission of saving those who cannot save themselves. This class examines the dichotomy of risk management and the subsequent impacts that the safety culture of the past two decades has had on the American fire service. The class will dissect the concepts of mission creep and normalization of deviance within our service. It will review and facilitate discussion on the current cultural divide pertaining to strategic, tactical and safety strategies being employed across the nation. It reviews extensive data, technical knowledge, and real world experiences to unwrap the many layers of the cultural battle happening amongst us in an effort to present sound, unemotional reasoning and create open, meaningful dialogue with the end goal being unity, mission readiness, and a return to our fundamental, blue-collar roots of service before self. Finally, it takes a hard look at the facts behind firefighter fatalities, and how to use current data to keep us centered on our mission of saving lives and property, not running scared from anecdotal myths and fire service folklore!

Presenter:  Nick Peppard

Presenter Biography:  Nick Peppard is a 19-year student of the craft. Nick is currently a firefighter/paramedic at the Oshkosh (WI) Fire Department. Nick is a founding member of the Rust Belt Jakes training cadre. Nick holds numerous fire service certifications and a bachelor’s degree in Fire Administration from Waldorf University. He has presented at numerous regional and national fire conferences including FDIC, Firehouse Expo, MAFFC, LIFT, Revolutionary Tactics at the Lake and many others. Nick is a founding member and training chair of the Old-Fashioned FOOLS, is a founding member of the Sawdust City Fire Expo and is co-host of the Make Due: Suburban Fireman Podcast with Sean Duffy of Build Your Culture. He is a published author with Fire Engineering Magazine and is a proud member of IAFF Local #316. He is very passionate about training and helping others better themselves so that we can all better fulfill our oath to serve and protect THEM. The Rust Belt Jakes training cadre was established in 2022 by Nick Peppard, Marc Aloan.

Safe Siting Of Battery Storage Systems - A Guide For AHJ Approval

The course was developed specifically for members of the regulatory community. The purpose of the course is to provide insight into energy storage system safety so that AHJ’s will be able to make informed decisions in terms of providing siting approvals. The scope of the course will cover risk, administrative & design mitigation methods, detection, suppression & exposure control, along with best practices above code requirements.

Presenter:  Anthony Natale

Presenter Biography:  Mr. Natale has 30 Years in the petroleum, hazmat and utility sectors specializing in industrial/high-voltage firefighting, and large-scale incident management. Anthony serves as a technical committee member on NFPA 1, the Fire Code, NFPA 18, Water Additives for Fire Suppression and Vapor Mitigation and NFPA 855, Standard for the Installation of Stationary Energy Storage Systems. In his current role, Anthony’s team is responsible for BESS risk assessments, emergency response plan development, response to BESS emergencies and training for the fire services on the hazards and response tactics associated with BESS emergencies.

Side Charlie Engine Operations

Often, the most underappreciated and underutilized tactic on the fireground is an Engine Company operating on the Charlie side. The company assigned to the rear has the ability to secure a secondary water supply stretch additional attack lines that do not interfere with the primary attack lines. Being assigned to engine company in the rear is a huge responsibility because you have to often times get creative on how you are going to accomplish these tasks.  Side Charlie Engine Operations is designed to cover all aspects of operating in the rear of a structure. participants will learn how to integrate this concept into current SOGs and build their Engine Company both operationally and culturally to fulfill the role of the Side Charlie Engine Company. We will cover various topics including water supply considerations, where when and how to place attack lines and tactical considerations.

Presenter:  Brandon Chapman

Presenter Biography:  Brandon Chapman has 15 years of career and volunteer experience and currently serves as a Fireman on Engine 17 in the city of Pittsburgh, He also holds the title of Assistant Fire Chief for the Stowe Township Fire Department and is a Fireman for the West Lanham Hills volunteer Fire Company 28 of Prince Georges County Maryland. Brandon Is a PA State Suppression instructor, teaches recruit School for the city of Pittsburgh and is also a lead instructor for the Butler County community college. he shares expertise in fire suppression specifically through the engine company. Brandon is a Co-founder and instructor for GRIT Fire Training LLC, he actively contributes to the development of comprehensive training programs to promote firemanship through training.

To Infinity And Beyond! Harnessing The Power Of Soft Skills For Success Both Inside And Outside The Four Walls Of The Firehouse.

Explore the vital role of soft skills within the four walls of the firehouse and BEYOND! Come learn how self-assessment, setting values and improving your emotional intelligence can level up your leadership game. These so-called "soft skills", once mastered, can enhance your decision-making capability, improve your composure, optimize team dynamics, and grow confidence. All of these skills improve you and your team's effectiveness in every aspect of the fire service.  

Presenter(s)  Kerry Henderson & Kyle Matousek

Presenter(s) Biography:  Battalion Chief Kerry Henderson and Lieutenant Kyle Matousek began working together in 2022 as Fire Service Leadership Instructors/ Speakers and founded H.M. Leadership Concepts. Chief Henderson is 23-year fire service veteran from Virginia and currently serves as a Battalion Chief for James City County Fire Department. Kerry has served in many roles throughout her career to include Fire Training Instructor, Station Captain, Diver, Paramedic, Training Chief and more. Kerry has a master’s degree from Jacksonville State University. Her biggest accomplishment to date is being a mom. Lieutenant Matousek is a 13-year Veteran of the fire service and U.S. Coast Guard Veteran. Kyle currently serves as a Company Officer in Oak Brook, Illinois. Kyle is a Fire Department Safety Officer, Instructor, Paramedic, Fire Investigator and has a master’s degree from Southern Illinois University. In 2022, Kyle and Kerry were named the top 2 winners of the W.S. Darley Co. Leadership Essay Contest. This contest sparked a passion to speak and teach others about their leadership beliefs and since then the two have traveled the Country speaking and sharing their message and working to shake up the traditional fire service leadership model.

Using Emotional Intelligence To Improve Stress Management

Recent research indicates that a key indicator and predictor of true leadership is an individual's capacity to find meaning in negative events and learn from challenging circumstances.  The Stress Management Composite Scale comprises three Emotional Intelligence competencies: Flexibility, Stress Tolerance, and Optimism. These competencies are essential for overcoming adversity and emerging stronger and more committed, which are the qualities that define extraordinary leaders.  "Using Emotional Intelligence to Improve Stress Management" is designed to help participants assess their proficiency in these three competencies and provide practical tools to develop the skills necessary to become extraordinary leaders.

Presenter:  Kirsten Martin

Presenter Biography:  Kirsten Martin has over 20 years of experience in public safety, beginning her career in the late 90s as a volunteer with Goochland County Fire-Rescue (GCFR). While serving as a career firefighter with Chesterfield Fire and EMS, she earned a B.A. in Human Resource Management with a minor in Leadership from the University of Richmond. In 2016, she returned to GCFR as a firefighter/paramedic and is currently pursuing a Master's in Fire Rescue Executive Leadership from Waldorf University. Kirsten has completed the National Fire Academy’s Managing Officers Program and several other advanced courses, including the New Executive Chief Officer, Command and Control of Incident Operations, and Command and Control Decision-Making at Multi-Alarm Incidents. She actively participates in several professional organizations, including the IAFF Local 4865 and the Virginia Fire Chief’s Association Women of Fire & EMS section. In September 2023, Kirsten launched MartinEQ, a company specializing in Multi-Health Systems solutions, offering emotional quotient inventories (EQi-2.0 & EQ360) and emotional intelligence coaching.

Blocked And Unfriended By My Own Heart: Heart Blocks In The Young

We have all had patients who exhibit heart blocks, but most are the population we expect to see them in older patients. So what happens when we see a younger patient, either pediatric or young to middle aged adult who has a heart block? Would we believe our eyes, diagnose and treat it the right way? Join Rory as he takes us on a journey through his own personal experience of dealing with a heart block and misdiagnosis over several years culminating in a major event that led to pacemaker placement. We'll discuss the epidemiology and pathophysiology of what is occurring in heart blocks using multiple case studies, and how we can best treat it. Emphasis will be placed on recognition and not being blinded as we see a cardiac arrhythmia that is not common in younger patients, but can be just as troublesome.

Presenter:  Rory Putnam

Presenter Biography:  Rory Putnam is a Paramedic from Windham, ME and the owner of Atlantic Life Safety, an EMS, Emergency Management & Safety education/consulting company in New England. He has over 33 years in private service, municipal and federal government EMS and EMA operations, education and communications management positions and still works in the field for York Ambulance in Maine. He is the EMS Instructor for Biddeford Regional Center of Technology. He has also been published by EMS World Magazine, written peer-reviewed CEU articles, is a frequent state, regional and national speaker and a Lead Paramedic Instructor for EMTS, Inc in northern MA. 

EHAC & STEMI Metrics: How Pre-Arrival Care Affects Patient Outcomes

Discuss the impact of Early Heart Attack Care, Community Outreach/Education, and Pre-Arrival Care affect Patient Outcomes; Identifies EMS documentation that is submitted for Quality Analytics and Process Improvement Opportunities for STEMI Care; Describes the importance and impact of Pre-Arrival EKG Transmission services.

Presenter:  Megan Vaughan, MSN, RN

Presenter Biography:  Critical care nurse with over 10 years experience. Specializes in Quality Analytics and Process Improvement Strategies for the Cardiovascular Care Continuum

Guidelines For Prehospital Airway Management

A review of a recent project that developed evidence based guidelines for airway management for pre-hospital providers. What are the options and devices available and what are the best strategies for airway management in the pre-hospital environment?

Presenter:  George Lindbeck, MD

Presenter Biography:  Virginia State EMS Medical Director

The Command Mindset

Playing With Fire

This lecture will cover the use of a Cyanokit in a pre hospital setting. Much of the content, however, will be applicable to clinical staff in hospitals. The use of a Cyanokit can be a daunting multi step process that can be confusing for providers often times. This lecture will cover: indications for use of Cyanokit, how to assemble/mix, dosage/volume discussion, case studies from local departments in Texas that are utilizing this product, mechanism of action and potential side effects during use, and special considerations in regards to advanced airway management in the acutely injured airway patient. For a critical care portion, the use of Cyanokit in conjunction with pressors will be discussed. Cyanokit is a nitric oxide scavenger, and will limit vasodilation, thus, allowing primary first-line pressor dosages to be reduced.   LO1- identify the indications for use of a Cyanokit. LO2- identify different sources /causes of cyanide poisoning. LO3- identify the indications for advanced airway management/techniques for airway injuries and why it is important to be performed in conjunction with Cyanokit administration. LO4- Be able to efficiently assemble and infuse the correct volume/dose of the Cyanokit.

Presenter:  Anthony Henry. Paramedic, CCP, TP-C

Presenter Biography:  Anthony Henry started his career in EMS in 2012. In 2014 attended the Paramedic program at Mercy College of Health Sciences in Des Moines, Iowa. In 2016, Anthony attended the University of Iowa's (go Hawks) critical care program and gained a critical care endorsement. Shortly after, Anthony moved to Texas and has been employed with the Baytown Fire Department as a Firefighter/Paramedic. In 2020, Anthony was hired as a Flight Paramedic with HCA AirLIFE Houston and started moving into multiple education rolls at his places of employment and FOAMed. Fire and Medicine are both passions of Anthony, and this lecture includes the best of both worlds.

Safe Siting Of Battery Storage Systems - A Guide For AHJ Approval

The course was developed specifically for members of the regulatory community. The purpose of the course is to provide insight into energy storage system safety so that AHJ's will be able to make informed decisions in terms of providing siting approvals. The scope of the course will cover risk, administrative & design mitigation methods, detection, suppression & exposure control, along with best practices above code requirements.

Presenter:  Anthony Natale

Presenter Biography:  Mr. Natale has 30 Years in the petroleum, hazmat and utility sectors specializing in industrial/high-voltage firefighting, and large-scale incident management. Anthony serves as a technical committee member on NFPA 1, the Fire Code, NFPA 18, Water Additives for Fire Suppression and Vapor Mitigation and NFPA 855, Standard for the Installation of Stationary Energy Storage Systems. In his current role, Anthony’s team is responsible for BESS risk assessments, emergency response plan development, response to BESS emergencies and training for the fire services on the hazards and response tactics associated with BESS emergencies.

To Infinity And Beyond! Harnessing The Power Of Soft Skills For Success Both Inside And Outside The Four Walls Of The Firehouse.

Explore the vital role of soft skills within the four walls of the firehouse and BEYOND! Come learn how self-assessment, setting values and improving your emotional intelligence can level up your leadership game. These so-called "soft skills", once mastered, can enhance your decision-making capability, improve your composure, optimize team dynamics, and grow confidence. All of these skills improve you and your team's effectiveness in every aspect of the fire service.   

Presenter(s)  Kerry Henderson & Kyle Matousek

Presenter(s) Biography:  Battalion Chief Kerry Henderson and Lieutenant Kyle Matousek began working together in 2022 as Fire Service Leadership Instructors/ Speakers and founded H.M. Leadership Concepts. Chief Henderson is 23-year fire service veteran from Virginia and currently serves as a Battalion Chief for James City County Fire Department. Kerry has served in many roles throughout her career to include Fire Training Instructor, Station Captain, Diver, Paramedic, Training Chief and more. Kerry has a master’s degree from Jacksonville State University. Her biggest accomplishment to date is being a mom. Lieutenant Matousek is a 13-year Veteran of the fire service and U.S. Coast Guard Veteran. Kyle currently serves as a Company Officer in Oak Brook, Illinois. Kyle is a Fire Department Safety Officer, Instructor, Paramedic, Fire Investigator and has a master’s degree from Southern Illinois University. In 2022, Kyle and Kerry were named the top 2 winners of the W.S. Darley Co. Leadership Essay Contest. This contest sparked a passion to speak and teach others about their leadership beliefs and since then the two have traveled the Country speaking and sharing their message and working to shake up the traditional fire service leadership model.

Using Emotional Intelligence To Improve Stress Management

Recent research indicates that a key indicator and predictor of true leadership is an individual's capacity to find meaning in negative events and learn from challenging circumstances.  The Stress Management Composite Scale comprises three Emotional Intelligence competencies: Flexibility, Stress Tolerance, and Optimism. These competencies are essential for overcoming adversity and emerging stronger and more committed, which are the qualities that define extraordinary leaders.  "Using Emotional Intelligence to Improve Stress Management" is designed to help participants assess their proficiency in these three competencies and provide practical tools to develop the skills necessary to become extraordinary leaders.

Presenter:  Kirsten Martin

Presenter Biography:  Kirsten Martin has over 20 years of experience in public safety, beginning her career in the late 90s as a volunteer with Goochland County Fire-Rescue (GCFR). While serving as a career firefighter with Chesterfield Fire and EMS, she earned a B.A. in Human Resource Management with a minor in Leadership from the University of Richmond. In 2016, she returned to GCFR as a firefighter/paramedic and is currently pursuing a Master's in Fire Rescue Executive Leadership from Waldorf University. Kirsten has completed the National Fire Academy’s Managing Officers Program and several other advanced courses, including the New Executive Chief Officer, Command and Control of Incident Operations, and Command and Control Decision-Making at Multi-Alarm Incidents. She actively participates in several professional organizations, including the IAFF Local 4865 and the Virginia Fire Chief’s Association Women of Fire & EMS section. In September 2023, Kirsten launched MartinEQ, a company specializing in Multi-Health Systems solutions, offering emotional quotient inventories (EQi-2.0 & EQ360) and emotional intelligence coaching.

Chief Insights: Navigating Your Path To Promotion

Join us for an engaging and interactive Q&A session featuring a distinguished panel of Fire Chiefs from departments of various sizes across Virginia. This unique opportunity allows participants to steer the conversation, so come prepared with your most pressing questions! Our seasoned chiefs will share their wealth of experience and provide invaluable mentorship and guidance on navigating the path to promotion. Discover effective strategies for advancing in fire and rescue services, learn insider tips, and gain insights directly from those who have successfully climbed the ranks. Whether you're preparing for your next promotion or seeking advice on leadership development, this session offers a rare chance to ask anything and receive personalized, expert advice. Don't miss out on this exceptional opportunity to enhance your career and leadership skills in fire and rescue.

Presenter(s):  Jennifer Flaig & Matthew Tobia

Presenter(s) Biography:  Jennifer Flaig currently serves as the Director of the Human Capital Division for Emergency Services Consulting (ESCI). She brings over 20 years’ experience to the ESCI team developing and directing testing and training programs for public safety departments throughout the United States. She has developed hundreds of valid, defensible public safety exams to assess all ranks within the fire service from firefighter to Fire Chief. Ms. Flaig holds a Master’s Degree in Industrial/Organizational Psychology. Her areas of expertise include job analysis, test validation, test administration, candidate development, diversity training, performance evaluation, supervisory/ leadership training, and organizational assessment. In her role as Director, her responsibilities include new business development, employee development, budgeting, and the coordination, delegation, and implementation of all client programs. Ms. Flaig has designed a public safety test preparation book, supervisory training programs, and leadership training programs. She has developed and implemented innovative testing approaches that minimize group differences (adverse impact), as well as innovative scoring procedures designed to increase assessor consistency and test reliability. Ms. Flaig is an adjunct professor at George Washington University in Arlington, VA and the current President for the Personnel Testing Council of Metropolitan Washington (PTC-MW).

Matthew Tobia is the Fire Chief with the City of Harrisonburg (VA) Fire Department and is a 35- year student of emergency services. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Maryland Baltimore County and is a graduate of the Executive Fire Officer program at the National Fire Academy. Matt has served as a member of the Editorial Board for Fire-Rescue Magazine and has authored over 120 articles. He is also the former chair of the IAFC’s Safety, Health and Survival Section, holds the Chief Fire Officer credential and is a member of the Institute of Fire Engineers. Prior to Harrisonburg, Chief Tobia spent 23 years with the Anne Arundel County (MD) Fire Department and four years with Loudoun County (VA) Fire Rescue. Matt began volunteering in south central Pennsylvania in 1987 and is active with the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) and the Mid Atlantic Burn Camp for Children.

VDFP - 1031/1033 - Recertification Course - Ignitable Liquids Detection K9 Assisting The Fire Investigation

VDFP - 1031/1033 - Re-certification Course - Ignitable Liquids Detection K9 Assisting the Fire Investigation

A Second Is A Hell Of A Long Time.

Emergency incident operations, paramedics, firefighters, company officers and incident commanders must be able to recognize the second by second changing conditions of the incident scene and adapt their performance to the incident conditions, in real time.   Incidents are dynamic, which is to say that incident operations and management must be dynamic as well.  In this course, Paramedics, Firefighters, Company Officers and Incident Commanders will explore how to stay one step ahead of the rapidly changing incident conditions.  Though the use of sports and performance psychology company officers, incident commanders and individual paramedics and firefighters will improve their situational awareness, rapid pattern recognition, critical decision making and sustain their performance at the very second they need it the most; before the close call or near miss emergency situation begins.  

Presenter:  Barry Jacobs

Presenter Biography:  Barry Jacobs has three decades of experience as a volunteer and professional firefighter/paramedic and supervisor. He was an early advocate of Critical Incident Stress Management, obtaining a master’s degree in professional counseling. “My goal is to open doors and to affect positive change in the lives of first responders, who contribute so much to our communities and to provide tools for performance, recovery and resiliency.”

RIT: It Goes Beyond The Drills: Does Water Win? Hands-on-Training Course (2-Day 16 Hour Course)

Rural Water Supply: Old Tips And New Tricks - Hands-on-Training Program

Fire Chiefs Shakers Forum

Designed for the chief officer level issues, this facilitated discussion will involve all participants in an open forum environment.  Facilitators will work with the participants to develop a list of subjects relevant to today's fire service.  The group will discuss the various "hot topics" and share information on successes, challenges and best practices.  The Shakers Forum is the ultimate in fire service networking.  Come and join the group of fire service shakers and learn from the real world experiences of your peers and colleagues.  

Presenter(s):  Mark Light & Edward "Loy" Senter

Presenter(s) Biography:  Mark has been in the fire service for over 44 years. He served in Roanoke County in numerous positions from volunteer to Deputy Chief;  was the Fire Chief in Henrico County; served as the Deputy Executive Director for the International Association of Fire Chiefs; and retired after 12 years as the CEO of the IAFC. He is currently the President and CEO of Light Leadership Group, LLC.  He has a Master of Public Administration from Virginia Tech, completed the EFO program at the National Fire Academy, and the Executive Leaders Program at the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey California. He holds a designation as a Certified Association Executive (CAE). He was a founding member of the Heavy and Tactical Rescue program in Virginia and teaches leadership and management programs across the country.

Chief Edward “Loy” Senter Jr., entered fire and emergency medical services (EMS) in 1978 at age 15 as a junior member of the Chesapeake Beach Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department.  His first job was with the Norfolk International Airport (VA) Fire Department. In 1982, he joined the City of Norfolk (VA) Fire-Rescue Department. In 1986, he was promoted to fire lieutenant and over the next 17 years served in various command assignments. In 2003, he was appointed Norfolk’s fire chief and provided leadership and managerial direction to 533 personnel distributed among 14 fire-rescue stations and six offices, serving a 62 square mile urban area with a resident population of 250,000 and a weekday population of approximately 500,000.  In 2008, Chief Senter was appointed fire and EMS chief of Chesterfield County (VA).  He provides leadership and managerial direction to 500 career and 200 volunteer members distributed among three branches, nine divisions, 22 fire & EMS stations and four volunteer rescue squads serving a population of over 340,000 in a 446 square mile, diverse area. He is a member of the county’s leadership team, the emergency preparedness and capital improvement program (CIP) steering committees, and is co-dean of the Chesterfield University School of Public Safety.  He also serves as a member and past president of the Central Virginia Fire Chiefs Association (CVFCA), a member of both the VFCA and Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Section of the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC), and a member of the Fire Science Advisory Committee for J. Sergeant Reynolds Community College.  Chief Senter holds an associate of applied since degree in fire science from Tidewater Community College, a bachelor of science degree in fire administration from Hampton University, and a master’s degree in public administration from Old Dominion University. He is a graduate of the National Fire Academy’s EFO Program and is also a Virginia certified Fire Officer III and EMT. 

Human Resource Shakers Forum

Discuss real and relevant HR issues impacting the fire service. This forum is intended to provide a safe space to hold open and brave discussions that reflect the participants HR reality, and share ideas to overcome challenges!

Presenter(s):  Christina Smith & David "DJ" Johnston

Presenter(s) Biography:  With over 20 years of experience in the fore service, Christina currently serves as the Human Resource Manager for Chesterfield Fire and EMS. Prior to her current role, Christina served as the Action Officer at Richmond Fire and Personnel Officer at Henrico Fire. She earned her Master's degree in Business Administration and is a SHRM Senior Certified Professional. Christina is the President of Richmond SHRM and co-chair of communications for HR Virginia.

David “DJ” Johnston serves as the Assistant Chief of Administration and Training for Hanover Fire-EMS. He began his career as an Emergency Medical Technician and quickly realized his passion for emergency medicine and furthered his education by becoming a Nationally Registered Paramedic. Joining Hanover Fire-EMS in January of 2007, he has been blessed to serve in many functions throughout the county and has cherished the relationships he has built. Working as a Lieutenant in Operations, serving as the EMS Captain, Battalion Chief in Operations and the Public Information Officer for Hanover Fire-EMS have all been valuable experiences to learn the many functions of the fire service. Chief Johnston also has served on the Technical Rescue Team for many years, and has served as the Chair of the Central Virginia Flammable Liquids Task Force. Currently, Chief Johnston works with the Human Resources Division, Team Logistics, the Training Team and Budget. Chief Johnston is very thankful for his family and their steadfast support of his career with Hanover Fire-EMS.

Health & Safety Forum

Agenda Coming Soon!

Incorporating Facility Dogs To Enhance Fire Rescue Programs

Explore the usages and benefits of incorporating facility dogs within fire departments to support personnel, expand outreach and boost morale. An assistance dog will demonstrate different techniques for alleviating stress, interrupting traumatic triggers and assisting with physical disabilities.

Presenter(s):  Nikki Charles & Sabrina Zambito

Presenter(s) Biography:  Nikki joined the Hero Dogs staff as Executive Director in May 2018. Prior to that, she co-founded and worked as a co-executive director at Network for Victim Recovery of DC (NVRDC), a comprehensive crime victim services organization serving Washington, DC, for six years. She is passionate about helping those who experienced trauma recover using the most progressive and effective treatments and programs available. Prior to founding NVRDC, she was the Administrator of Victim Services for the Criminal Injuries Compensation Board in Maryland. She has received two Governor’s Citations for Excellence in Victim Services. Under her leadership, NVRDC’s case management team was honored with a Navy Award of Group Merit, for NVRDC’s response to the 2013 mass shooting at the Navy Yard. She was also a full time faculty member at American Military University for a decade. She is a master’s level trained grief counselor who received her B.S. from Shepherd College and her M.A. from Hood College.

Saving The Super-Utilizers

The Fairfax County Community Response Team: To provide appropriate services for persons with mental illness and substance abuse, or co-occurring disorders and/or those with intellectual, developmental or physical disabilities to reduce dependence on 911."  This course will follow the Fairfax County Community Response Team from inception, to roadblocks and where we see the future taking our team. This is accomplished through data sharing and case reviews, including a current case where the class will be able to role play and delve into the decision making process our team uses every day to aid our clients.

Presenter:  Katherine Murray

Presenter Biography:  Katherine Murray, NRP, is an EMS Technician on the Community Response Team for the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department in Fairfax, Virginia. Katherine completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Virginia and attended Virginia Commonwealth University for her paramedic certification. She has been a firemedic with Fairfax County since 2012, and has spent most of her career on a busy transport unit. Katherine's favorite quote is: "compassion without action is observation," and she has always been a strong patient advocate. In her role on the Community Response Team, Katherine is able to take the time to investigate the root causes for frequent 911 utilizers to help connect them to more appropriate definitive resources.

Shake, Rattle And Roll: EMS Seizure Response

Seizures are luckily not incredibly common, but because of this it's important that we stay well versed in assessment and treatment. That assessment is made harder by the fact that many seizures don't look like what our concept of them is. We discuss grand mal, petit mal, partial and occasionally focal seizures in our licensure classes, but there are a lot more to consider. Have you ever heard of or encountered a dystonic, atonic, drop or pseudo seizure? We'll take a closer look at these and other rare seizures and discuss better assessment techniques as well as detailing treatments for them.

Presenter:  Rory Putnam

Presenter Biography:  Rory Putnam is a Paramedic from Windham, ME and the owner of Atlantic Life Safety, an EMS, Emergency Management & Safety education/consulting company in New England. He has over 33 years in private service, municipal and federal government EMS and EMA operations, education and communications management positions and still works in the field for York Ambulance in Maine. He is the EMS Instructor for Biddeford Regional Center of Technology. He has also been published by EMS World Magazine, written peer-reviewed CEU articles, is a frequent state, regional and national speaker and a Lead Paramedic Instructor for EMTS, Inc in northern MA. 

Stress First Aid For Chaplains

This learning model provides a Chaplain's adaptation of the Stress First Aid for Emergency Responders program. This module teaches a set of proven principles and practical actions that help Chaplains use spiritual guidance and the SFA framework to assist emergency responders with the early intervention of, and recovery from, traumatic stress.

Presenter:  Dr. Derrick Edwards

Presenter Biography:  Dr. Derrick Edwards is a Tennessee Licensed Professional Counselor and a mental health service provider. He received his master’s degree from Tennessee Tech University (TTU) and his doctoral degree from Trevecca Nazarene University. Edwards currently serves as an assistant professor of psychology at TTU, where he operates the TTU Responder Health Lab. His research focus surrounds the psychological effects of being an emergency responder. Edwards joined the fire service in 2004 and is a licensed AEMT.

The 10 Code Mindset: Stay Alive And Thriving Even Amidst Stress, Demands, And Trauma Experienced In The Career And In Life.

This course provides first responders with a comprehensive understanding of how the mind and body respond to stress. It covers the identification of signs and symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, addictions, mood swings, and suicide risk. Additionally, the course offers a variety of mental fitness strategies to help anyone rise above and prevail against the challenges of life and their career. 

Presenter:  Scott Medlin

Presenter Biography:  Scott Medlin, a national speaker, five-time author, and founder of L.E.O. Motivation LLC, is dedicated to empowering first responders. He leverages his experience from a distinguished law enforcement career (2007-2022) and as a Marine Corps Sergeant to provide essential tools for thriving amidst career stresses. Scott's transformative work is showcased on his YouTube channel and podcast, "The 10 Code Mindset," and in his books like "Mental Health Fight Of The Heroes in Blue." He speaks at various conferences and agencies, such as National C.O.P.S. conference and Atlanta Police Department Quarterly Command Staff Meeting.

The Art Of Reading Smoke: The Next Generation

The Reading Smoke curriculum is a must for anyone looking to master the craft of Firefighting. First-in video combined with dynamic teaching helps you develop the ability to see the Volume, Velocity, Density and Color of smoke. Learning to Read Smoke improves your ability to understand and predict fire behavior. Reading Smoke provides insight for excellent tactical decisions. Reading the Smoke's Volume, Velocity, Density, and Color allows you to answer three questions: Where is the fire? How big is it? What rate of change you should expect?  Whether choosing a tactic at the command level, or performing the tactic at the company level, learning to collect information quickly improves decision-making for firefighter safety and better service to the citizens. Video-based, fast-paced, sets and reps of Reading Smoke will make you better on the fireground.

Presenter:  Phil A Jose

Presenter Biography:  Phillip Jose, Deputy Chief, (Ret.), 30 years Seattle Fire. Chair SOG-PIA committees. Chief of the Year 2013. FDIC Instructor 20 years. 2008 Tom Brennan Award, Author Instructor 1 for Fire and Emergency Services, Air Management for the Fire Service, FE Handbook FF 1 and 2 ; FE “Bread and Butter” video, SCBA.

The Virginia Trauma System And Trauma Triage

This course will review key elements of the Virginia Trauma System, including levels and types of trauma centers found throughout the Commonwealth.  We will also review the types of patient appropriate for each type of trauma center, as available in a given geographic region. A review of mechanisms of injury and the trauma triage criteria will be included. Interactive case studies will be incorporated to demonstrate various trauma patient types.

Presenter(s):  Kelley Rumsey & Tracey Taylor

Presenter(s) Biography:  Kelley has practiced in various roles in trauma, emergency, and critical care nursing for over thirty years. In 2019, Kelley completed her Doctor of Nursing Practice. Nationally, she has served many years in the advancement of nursing certification exams including the Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN), Trauma Certified Registered Nurse (TCRN) and Certified Burn Registered Nurse (CBRN). In addition to championing nursing certification, Dr. Rumsey has served in many capacities in regional Emergency Medical Services and state trauma system development. She is the 2021 recipient of the Virginia Governor’s EMS Award for Outstanding Contribution to EMS Health and Safety for her work with First responder mental health and peer support.

Unified Command, Communications And Control Of An Active Assailant Situation With RTF's

The presentation will talk about mitigation and pre-planning of an active assailant situation. We will also look at recommended equipment for the department and Rescue Task Force. The presentation will include segments on working with local law enforcement to ensure that "buy-in" in in place, the training needed for Police, Fire/EMS and working in a Rescue Task Force model. Terminology and communications within the incident following the ICS model. The students will gain a foundation on "pre-planning" for an incident to include law enforcement, Fire/EMS, hospitals, Media, etc.

Presenter:  Jeff McPhearson

Presenter Biography:  Jeff currently works for Prince George Fire and EMS as a senior firefighter, critical care paramedic with over 30 years of EMS experience and 11 years of fire service experience. Jeff also works for Virginia Department of Fire Programs as an adjunct instructor and Hanover Fire & EMS as a contract EMS/Fire instructor teaching many programs from Paramedic, EMT, Firefighter 1 & 2 to include the Fire Instructor and Fire Officer tracks. Jeff is an adjunct faculty for NAEMT, Training Center Faculty for AHA and an Education coordinator for Virginia Office of OEMS. Jeff has been involved with tactical medicine for over 12 years bringing the first NAEMT TCCC program to the Tri-Cities with Fort Gregg-Adams. 

Women Of Fire & EMS Tactical Day - Hands-on-Training

This dynamic, hands-on training program is designed specifically for women, taught by experienced female instructors who understand the unique challenges faced by women in the fire service. This course empowers participants by offering a supportive environment where they can develop and refine essential firefighting skills.

Through intensive practice in areas such as search and rescue, ladder operations, ventilation techniques, and forcible entry, participants will not only hone their technical abilities but also work to overcome the stigmas associated with women in firefighting. By training to be the best and pushing beyond the barriers of mediocrity, attendees will gain confidence, competence, and a stronger sense of camaraderie within the fire service.

Your Leadership Compass - Using It To Manage Crises And Navigate Change

We seek to offer our leadership successes, life lessons, and experiences from our roles as Fire Chiefs in Lynchburg, VA and Portsmouth, VA.  Changes in the work environment can have a profound impact on individuals and communities, both internally and externally. The instability that often occurs as a result of political or administrative leadership changes can lead to shifts in attitudes and behaviors. What was once permitted may now be promoted, leading to a convergence of goals that may actually diverge in reality. This can result in conflict between various stakeholders, such as labor unions, elected officials, and the community at large. One area that is particularly affected by changes in the environment is mental and physical health. These changes can have significant impacts on individuals' well-being, but they also present opportunities for growth and development. By adapting to these changes, individuals can improve their overall health and well-being. Setting the tone for how to navigate these changes is crucial. By providing opportunities for all individuals to thrive, promoting inclusiveness, and maintaining consistency in decision-making, communities can better weather the challenges brought about by environmental changes. Ultimately, by recognizing the impacts of these changes and seizing the opportunities they present, individuals and communities can emerge stronger and more resilient in the face of adversity. 

Presenter(s):  Greg Wormser and Nestor Mangubat

Presenter(s) Biography:  Falling in love with the Central Virginia area after becoming a permanent resident of Lynchburg in 1993, Greg graduated from Lynchburg College in 1995 and was hired by the Fire Department that same year. It wasn't long before he realized his true calling as that of a public servant. Greg obtained his National Registered Paramedic certification in 1998, and in 2001, he was promoted to Captain at Station 3, supervising eight staff operating three apparatus. In 2007, Greg was promoted to Battalion Chief and was named the Fire Marshal for the City. In 2010, he obtained his Masters Certificate in Local Government Management from Virginia Tech and obtained his Masters Degree in Public Administration from Old Dominion University in 2016. Having been a Field Battalion Chief for two years, Interim Training Chief, and Interim Deputy Chief, Greg has come up through the ranks and was promoted to Deputy Chief in October of 2015. He was promoted to Fire Chief February 21, 2018. Greg holds many Technical Rescue Certifications and is certified as Fire Officer IV. In addition to participating in educational opportunities in Central Virginia, Greg maintains instructorships in Pediatric Advanced Life Support, CPR, and Advanced Cardiac Life Support. Greg volunteers in the community, serving as a board member on three different community-driven projects/associations in the Lynchburg area.

Fire Chief Nestor Mangubat is a dedicated public servant with a passion for serving the community and ensuring the safety of all. His journey in the fire service world began over two decades ago in Chesapeake, Virginia, where he honed his skills and rose through the ranks to become a Fire Battalion Chief. He also served as the Fire Chief’s Executive Officer. In 2018, he brought his expertise to the Portsmouth Family as Deputy Fire Chief, and in 2020, he proudly stepped into the role of Fire Chief. Throughout his career, he tackled various challenges in Fire/EMS, special operations, and fire administration. From handling emergencies on the front line to diving deep into budget planning and strategic initiatives, he has always been driven by a commitment to excellence. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Organizational Leadership & Management from Regent University as well as a Master’s Degree in Business Management & Leadership from Liberty University. He is also a graduate of the prestigious Executive Fire Officer Program, equipping him with advanced knowledge and leadership skills to navigate complex situations with confidence and grace. With each passing day, Chief Mangubat strives to lead by example, inspire the team to reach new heights, and make a lasting impact on the world of public service.

Chief Insights: Navigating Your Path To Promotion

Join us for an engaging and interactive Q&A session featuring a distinguished panel of Fire Chiefs from departments of various sizes across Virginia. This unique opportunity allows participants to steer the conversation, so come prepared with your most pressing questions! Our seasoned chiefs will share their wealth of experience and provide invaluable mentorship and guidance on navigating the path to promotion. Discover effective strategies for advancing in fire and rescue services, learn insider tips, and gain insights directly from those who have successfully climbed the ranks. Whether you're preparing for your next promotion or seeking advice on leadership development, this session offers a rare chance to ask anything and receive personalized, expert advice. Don't miss out on this exceptional opportunity to enhance your career and leadership skills in fire and rescue.

Presenter(s):  Jennifer Flaig & Matthew Tobia

Presenter(s) Biography:  Jennifer Flaig currently serves as the Director of the Human Capital Division for Emergency Services Consulting (ESCI). She brings over 20 years’ experience to the ESCI team developing and directing testing and training programs for public safety departments throughout the United States. She has developed hundreds of valid, defensible public safety exams to assess all ranks within the fire service from firefighter to Fire Chief. Ms. Flaig holds a Master’s Degree in Industrial/Organizational Psychology. Her areas of expertise include job analysis, test validation, test administration, candidate development, diversity training, performance evaluation, supervisory/ leadership training, and organizational assessment. In her role as Director, her responsibilities include new business development, employee development, budgeting, and the coordination, delegation, and implementation of all client programs. Ms. Flaig has designed a public safety test preparation book, supervisory training programs, and leadership training programs. She has developed and implemented innovative testing approaches that minimize group differences (adverse impact), as well as innovative scoring procedures designed to increase assessor consistency and test reliability. Ms. Flaig is an adjunct professor at George Washington University in Arlington, VA and the current President for the Personnel Testing Council of Metropolitan Washington (PTC-MW).

​Matthew Tobia is the Fire Chief with the City of Harrisonburg (VA) Fire Department and is a 35- year student of emergency services. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Maryland Baltimore County and is a graduate of the Executive Fire Officer program at the National Fire Academy. Matt has served as a member of the Editorial Board for Fire-Rescue Magazine and has authored over 120 articles. He is also the former chair of the IAFC’s Safety, Health and Survival Section, holds the Chief Fire Officer credential and is a member of the Institute of Fire Engineers. Prior to Harrisonburg, Chief Tobia spent 23 years with the Anne Arundel County (MD) Fire Department and four years with Loudoun County (VA) Fire Rescue. Matt began volunteering in south central Pennsylvania in 1987 and is active with the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) and the Mid Atlantic Burn Camp for Children.

VDFP - 1031/1033 - Recertification Course - Interview & Interrogation

VDFP - 1031/1033 - Re-certification Course - Interview & Interrogation

Incorporating Facility Dogs To Enhance Fire Rescue Programs

Explore the usages and benefits of incorporating facility dogs within fire departments to support personnel, expand outreach and boost morale. An assistance dog will demonstrate different techniques for alleviating stress, interrupting traumatic triggers and assisting with physical disabilities.

Presenter(s):  Nikki Charles & Sabrina Zambito

Presenter(s) Biography:  Nikki joined the Hero Dogs staff as Executive Director in May 2018. Prior to that, she co-founded and worked as a co-executive director at Network for Victim Recovery of DC (NVRDC), a comprehensive crime victim services organization serving Washington, DC, for six years. She is passionate about helping those who experienced trauma recover using the most progressive and effective treatments and programs available. Prior to founding NVRDC, she was the Administrator of Victim Services for the Criminal Injuries Compensation Board in Maryland. She has received two Governor’s Citations for Excellence in Victim Services. Under her leadership, NVRDC’s case management team was honored with a Navy Award of Group Merit, for NVRDC’s response to the 2013 mass shooting at the Navy Yard. She was also a full time faculty member at American Military University for a decade. She is a master’s level trained grief counselor who received her B.S. from Shepherd College and her M.A. from Hood College.

One Last Breath? The Critical Asthma Patient

A more advanced look at the subject of Rory's "When Asthma Attacks", this course will focus on asthma review, a detailed look at pathophysiology of the disease, and discuss EMS treatments from an ALS perspective including assessment, pharmacological interventions and emerging hospital level approach to asthmatic patients. Emphasis will center on critical asthma patients and what we can do as providers to ensure this isn't their one last breath! Come with Rory on a journey into the life of an asthma patient and what it means to struggle to breathe, with the unique perspective of being a patient himself, he'll help you navigate the best recognition methods and treatments available for your patients!

Presenter:  Rory Putnam

Presenter Biography:  Rory Putnam is a Paramedic from Windham, ME and the owner of Atlantic Life Safety, an EMS, Emergency Management & Safety education/consulting company in New England. He has over 33 years in private service, municipal and federal government EMS and EMA operations, education and communications management positions and still works in the field for York Ambulance in Maine. He is the EMS Instructor for Biddeford Regional Center of Technology. He has also been published by EMS World Magazine, written peer-reviewed CEU articles, is a frequent state, regional and national speaker and a Lead Paramedic Instructor for EMTS, Inc in northern MA. 

Saving The Super-Utilizers

The Fairfax County Community Response Team: “To provide appropriate services for persons with mental illness and substance abuse, or co-occurring disorders and/or those with intellectual, developmental or physical disabilities to reduce dependence on 911."  This course will follow the Fairfax County Community Response Team from inception, to roadblocks and where we see the future taking our team. This is accomplished through data sharing and case reviews, including a current case where the class will be able to role play and delve into the decision making process our team uses every day to aid our clients.

Presenter:  Katherine Murray

Presenter Biography:  Katherine Murray, NRP, is an EMS Technician on the Community Response Team for the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department in Fairfax, Virginia. Katherine completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Virginia and attended Virginia Commonwealth University for her paramedic certification. She has been a firemedic with Fairfax County since 2012, and has spent most of her career on a busy transport unit. Katherine's favorite quote is: "compassion without action is observation," and she has always been a strong patient advocate. In her role on the Community Response Team, Katherine is able to take the time to investigate the root causes for frequent 911 utilizers to help connect them to more appropriate definitive resources.

The Virginia Trauma System And Trauma Triage

This course will review key elements of the Virginia Trauma System, including levels and types of trauma centers found throughout the Commonwealth.  We will also review the types of patient appropriate for each type of trauma center, as available in a given geographic region. A review of mechanisms of injury and the trauma triage criteria will be included. Interactive case studies will be incorporated to demonstrate various trauma patient types.

Presenter(s):  Kelley Rumsey & Tracey Taylor

Presenter(s) Biography:  Kelley has practiced in various roles in trauma, emergency, and critical care nursing for over thirty years. In 2019, Kelley completed her Doctor of Nursing Practice. Nationally, she has served many years in the advancement of nursing certification exams including the Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN), Trauma Certified Registered Nurse (TCRN) and Certified Burn Registered Nurse (CBRN). In addition to championing nursing certification, Dr. Rumsey has served in many capacities in regional Emergency Medical Services and state trauma system development. She is the 2021 recipient of the Virginia Governor’s EMS Award for Outstanding Contribution to EMS Health and Safety for her work with First responder mental health and peer support.

Your Leadership Compass - Using It To Manage Crises And Navigate Change

We seek to offer our leadership successes, life lessons, and experiences from our roles as Fire Chiefs in Lynchburg, VA and Portsmouth, VA.  Changes in the work environment can have a profound impact on individuals and communities, both internally and externally. The instability that often occurs as a result of political or administrative leadership changes can lead to shifts in attitudes and behaviors. What was once permitted may now be promoted, leading to a convergence of goals that may actually diverge in reality. This can result in conflict between various stakeholders, such as labor unions, elected officials, and the community at large. One area that is particularly affected by changes in the environment is mental and physical health. These changes can have significant impacts on individuals' well-being, but they also present opportunities for growth and development. By adapting to these changes, individuals can improve their overall health and well-being. Setting the tone for how to navigate these changes is crucial. By providing opportunities for all individuals to thrive, promoting inclusiveness, and maintaining consistency in decision-making, communities can better weather the challenges brought about by environmental changes. Ultimately, by recognizing the impacts of these changes and seizing the opportunities they present, individuals and communities can emerge stronger and more resilient in the face of adversity. 

Presenter(s):  Greg Wormser and Nestor Mangubat

Presenter(s) Biography:  Falling in love with the Central Virginia area after becoming a permanent resident of Lynchburg in 1993, Greg graduated from Lynchburg College in 1995 and was hired by the Fire Department that same year. It wasn't long before he realized his true calling as that of a public servant. Greg obtained his National Registered Paramedic certification in 1998, and in 2001, he was promoted to Captain at Station 3, supervising eight staff operating three apparatus. In 2007, Greg was promoted to Battalion Chief and was named the Fire Marshal for the City. In 2010, he obtained his Masters Certificate in Local Government Management from Virginia Tech and obtained his Masters Degree in Public Administration from Old Dominion University in 2016. Having been a Field Battalion Chief for two years, Interim Training Chief, and Interim Deputy Chief, Greg has come up through the ranks and was promoted to Deputy Chief in October of 2015. He was promoted to Fire Chief February 21, 2018. Greg holds many Technical Rescue Certifications and is certified as Fire Officer IV. In addition to participating in educational opportunities in Central Virginia, Greg maintains instructorships in Pediatric Advanced Life Support, CPR, and Advanced Cardiac Life Support. Greg volunteers in the community, serving as a board member on three different community-driven projects/associations in the Lynchburg area.

Fire Chief Nestor Mangubat is a dedicated public servant with a passion for serving the community and ensuring the safety of all. His journey in the fire service world began over two decades ago in Chesapeake, Virginia, where he honed his skills and rose through the ranks to become a Fire Battalion Chief. He also served as the Fire Chief’s Executive Officer. In 2018, he brought his expertise to the Portsmouth Family as Deputy Fire Chief, and in 2020, he proudly stepped into the role of Fire Chief. Throughout his career, he tackled various challenges in Fire/EMS, special operations, and fire administration. From handling emergencies on the front line to diving deep into budget planning and strategic initiatives, he has always been driven by a commitment to excellence. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Organizational Leadership & Management from Regent University as well as a Master’s Degree in Business Management & Leadership from Liberty University. He is also a graduate of the prestigious Executive Fire Officer Program, equipping him with advanced knowledge and leadership skills to navigate complex situations with confidence and grace. With each passing day, Chief Mangubat strives to lead by example, inspire the team to reach new heights, and make a lasting impact on the world of public service.

Company Operations In Garden Apartment Fires

This course will provide firefighters and company officers with tactical considerations to be successful at their next fire in a garden style apartment. As our population increases, as does property value. The public is seeking affordable living with many different amenities at an affordable price. With the increase in this type of construction comes the increased chances of fires. Add this to the already decaying garden apartments that exist in your community and we have a fire problem and a life safety problem for our citizens that is here to stay. This class will cover ways to support the incident commander and other command considerations. It will cover construction, access issues, the rescue problem, water supply, line selection, fire attack considerations and more. The goal of this program is to provide the student with the knowledge needed to support the commander in the street and ensure that sound tactics are implemented for a successful outcome.

Presenter:  Jarrod M Sergi

Presenter Biography:  Jarrod Sergi is a proud member of Norfolk Fire Rescue (VA). He is currently assigned to Battalion 3 in the Norview area of the city. Jarrod is a State Instructor for both the Virginia Department of Fire Programs and the National Fire Academy focusing on MAYDAY, Strategy/Tactics and high-rise fire operations. Jarrod serves as a committee member for NFPA 14 and is a graduate of the National Fire Academy’s Executive Fire Officer Program. Prior to working for the city of Norfolk he served onboard the USS Iwo Jima as a Damage Controlman and a Search and Rescue Swimmer. He has been featured in several fire service publications and lectures across the country on the importance of strong company level leadership.

Composed In The Midst Of Chaos

During this training session, we will focus on providing support for coping with psychological health issues related to first responders, professional mental health, stress management, and workplace depression. The exercises and demonstrations will help participants develop emotional de-escalation techniques, effective communication skills, and empathetic strategies. By the end of the training, participants will have the tools to better support individuals during critical incidents and improve outcomes.

Presenter:  Reggie Parker

Presenter Biography:  Reggie Parker serves as the behavioral health coordinator for the City of Hoover. With over 30 years of law enforcement experience, he has developed a diverse skill set encompassing training, negotiation, team leadership, and counseling. In addition to being a Certified Hostage Negotiator, he held the position of team leader for the crisis negotiation team before retiring as a Detective Sergeant in October 2021. Furthermore, he contributed to the field as an instructor for the National Association of School Resource Officers, where he assisted officers in transitioning from the streets to a school setting. As a licensed professional counselor (LPC), Reggie directly engages with first responders and trauma clients, leveraging his mental health knowledge to enhance his practice. He completed his Master of Science in Community Agency Counseling from Jacksonville State University in 2011 and also holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Sociology and Corrections from the same university, which he earned in 1994.

Pediatric Trauma: Injuries Across The Ages

This course will provide a foundational review of key pediatric trauma care concepts.  Using interactive case studies, examples of various injuries occurring across the ages of 0-18 years old will be shared.  Pediatric readiness strategies for Emergency Medical Services will be incorporated throughout the presentation.

Presenter(s):  Kelley Rumsey & Tracey Taylor

Presenter(s) Biography:  Kelley has practiced in various roles in trauma, emergency, and critical care nursing for over thirty years. In 2019, Kelley completed her Doctor of Nursing Practice. Nationally, she has served many years in the advancement of nursing certification exams including the Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN), Trauma Certified Registered Nurse (TCRN) and Certified Burn Registered Nurse (CBRN). In addition to championing nursing certification, Dr. Rumsey has served in many capacities in regional Emergency Medical Services and state trauma system development. She is the 2021 recipient of the Virginia Governor’s EMS Award for Outstanding Contribution to EMS Health and Safety for her work with First responder mental health and peer support.

Six Steps To Becoming A Critical Decision Maker: Leadership 101

Chief Michael Barakey's book, titled "Critical Decision Making, Point-to-Point Leadership in Fire and Emergency Services," is the platform for this 2-hour workshop. Chief Barakey uses the writings and case studies in the book to provide all fire service members the opportunity to review the decision making that occurred on large scale incidents.  Then, based on the six steps of becoming a Critical Decision Maker, review case study decisions from this new perspective. Learning the six steps to becoming a Critical Decision Maker leads to achievement as problem solving is a journey (from one point to another) and overcoming the obstacles to achieve a successful outcome. Immersion, Influence, Encouragement, Vision, Transformation, and Implementation are the six steps that allows firefighters and officers to progress from point to point. This workshop provides the fundamental principles that identify the challenges that fire service leader's encounters, and then provide a step-by-step process to get through difficult situations and incidents.

Presenter:  Michael Barakey

Presenter Biography:  Michael J. Barakey is a 31-year fire service veteran and is the Fire Chief of Suffolk (VA) Fire & Rescue and serves on the 9-1-1 Services Board, appointed by Governor Youngkin in 2023. Barakey is a nationally registered paramedic and is a neonatal/pediatric critical care paramedic for the Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters. Barakey is the participating agency representative and former task force leader for VA-TF2, one of the 28 National Urban Search and Rescue Teams. Barakey is the Chair of the Hampton Roads Fire Chief’s Association and has a master’s degree in public administration from Old Dominion University and graduated the National Fire Academy’s Executive Fire Officer Program in 2009, is credentialed as a Chief Fire Officer, and is a PEER Team Leader for the Commission on Fire Accreditation International. Barakey authored Critical Decision Making: Point-To-Point Leadership in Fire and Emergency Services through Fire Engineering Books and Videos, regularly contributes to Fire Engineering Magazine, and is an FDIC International pre-conference and classroom instructor.

Slap The Cap: The Comprehensive Capnography Course

First Nationally presented comprehensive course (Since 1998) on capnography that is an eye-opening experience when participants learn the incredible benefits gained from full ETCO2 monitoring and waveform assessment. In this exciting and informative session, Bob reviews the related A&P of the respiratory system and explains, through the use of multi-media and audience involvement, the role of capnography in all aspects of emergency and critical care. From cases of cardiac arrest to airway and ventilation management. Patient assessment as an initial triage through primary assessment and secondary to ongoing reassessment. In medical and trauma cases alike, the case is made for using capnography as a key patient assessment tool for every patient. From the triage of any patient to the ongoing monitoring of the patient. In fact, anyone with a problem with ABC's should have continuous monitoring of ETCO2 and waveform. Be a part of this comprehensive course that explains in detail why you measure CO2, how the machine measures it, how the waveforms are made and real cases from A-Z. Come and learn how to fully integrate this session into your practice and utilize it to its fullest potential! Capnography: It's not just for confirming tube placement!

Presenter:  Bob Page

Presenter Biography:  Bob Page is an internationally known speaker, instructor, author and paramedic. He is recognized for his energetic, humorous and motivational style. Bob takes ordinarily dry and hard to teach topics and transforms them into a fun, learning experience. He holds a Master’s degree in Adult Education. Bob has been an instructor for almost 4 decades teaching a variety of adult education courses from customer service to advanced medical care. He is a Certified Healthcare Simulation Educator and Operations Specialist. He has presented over 4000 seminars worldwide. He was recognized by his peers in Missouri as Missouri’s “Most Creative Educator” in 2009 and was awarded the Legends That Walk Among us Award from NAEMSE is 2012.

Summer Of 63

Command and Leadership lessons from the Battle of Gettysburg – A look at the key leaders at the Battle of Gettysburg, the good, the bad and the ugly.  What we as fire service officers can learn from these key leaders focusing on their command and leadership styles.

Presenter:  Allen Baldwin

Presenter Biography:  Currently serving as the Deputy Chief of the York County Virginia Department of Fire and Life Safety. Been involved in the fire service for over forty years and still an active responder and suppression instructor. Has served as both a career and volunteer officer in various positions. Holds a Master’s Degree in Organizational Leadership, a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Administration, and an Associate’s Degree in Fire Science and Administration. Additionally, a graduate of the National Fire Academy Executive Fire Officer Academy, Fire Officer IV certification, is Nationally and Virginia certified EMT, Past President of the Virginia Fire Chiefs Association and the Cumberland Valley Firefighters
Association, Currently serving on the Board of Directors for the South Eastern Association of Fire Chiefs and Emergency Responder Safety Institute, Chief Fire Officer, Chief EMS Officer, and Chief Training Officer Designation from the Center for Public Safety Excellence.

The 10 Code Mindset: Stay Alive And Thriving Even Amidst Stress, Demands, And Trauma Experienced In The Career And In Life.

This course provides first responders with a comprehensive understanding of how the mind and body respond to stress. It covers the identification of signs and symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, addictions, mood swings, and suicide risk. Additionally, the course offers a variety of mental fitness strategies to help anyone rise above and prevail against the challenges of life and their career. 

Presenter:  Scott Medlin

Presenter Biography:  Scott Medlin, a national speaker, five-time author, and founder of L.E.O. Motivation LLC, is dedicated to empowering first responders. He leverages his experience from a distinguished law enforcement career (2007-2022) and as a Marine Corps Sergeant to provide essential tools for thriving amidst career stresses. Scott's transformative work is showcased on his YouTube channel and podcast, "The 10 Code Mindset," and in his books like "Mental Health Fight Of The Heroes in Blue." He speaks at various conferences and agencies, such as National C.O.P.S. conference and Atlanta Police Department Quarterly Command Staff Meeting.

The Art Of Reading Smoke: The Next Generation

The Reading Smoke curriculum is a must for anyone looking to master the craft of Firefighting. First-in video combined with dynamic teaching helps you develop the ability to see the Volume, Velocity, Density and Color of smoke. Learning to Read Smoke improves your ability to understand and predict fire behavior. Reading Smoke provides insight for excellent tactical decisions. Reading the Smoke's Volume, Velocity, Density, and Color allows you to answer three questions: Where is the fire? How big is it? What rate of change you should expect?  Whether choosing a tactic at the command level, or performing the tactic at the company level, learning to collect information quickly improves decision-making for firefighter safety and better service to the citizens. Video-based, fast-paced, sets and reps of Reading Smoke will make you better on the fireground.

Presenter:  Phil A Jose

Presenter Biography:  Phillip Jose, Deputy Chief, (Ret.), 30 years Seattle Fire. Chair SOG-PIA committees. Chief of the Year 2013. FDIC Instructor 20 years. 2008 Tom Brennan Award, Author Instructor 1 for Fire and Emergency Services, Air Management for the Fire Service, FE Handbook FF 1 and 2 ; FE “Bread and Butter” video, SCBA.

The Art Of The Company Chauffeur

Engineer, Driver, Technician, Chauffer, Wheelman. Call it what you want, but we can all agree that the driver operator must be someone who does more than just drive from the fire house to the call. During this interactive lecture we will discuss some of the following questions and topics.  -The "why", why we need to be the best we can be as drivers  -Front seat communications  -What are some of the responsibilities of the Driver/Operator? Ethical and legal  -What are some challenges we may face?  -Human performance related to the driver/operator   -How do we overcome these challenges? -Do you really know your rig and how things work? -Mechanical challenges  -Positioning vs Parking - "Lone wolf" tactics. Can you do more then just stare at the pump panel? -Steering Wheel Holder vs Driver Operator This will be geared to those who are currently Driver Operators within their departments or those who aspire to be. This will be taught by a current engine company driver working for a larger metropolitan fire department within the DC capital Region who teaches driver operator classes within the area, both career and volunteer. This class will dive into some of the mechanical aspects of the rigs and things to look for to prevent any mechanical break downs or out of service time. We will discuss things that could go wrong on the fire ground and how to overcome these problems in a very interactive environment. The goal is for the drivers in the room to bounce ideas off each other and to be able to have an open discussion.

Presenter:  Brian Edwards

Presenter Biography:  Brian Edwards, Career Apparatus Technician with the Fairfax County Fire Rescue Department in Northern Virginia. Volunteer Firefighter/EMT with the Warrenton Volunteer Fire Department as training lieutenant. Adjunct fire service instructor with Fairfax County, Loudoun County, Training to Perform Under Pressure and Virginia Department of Fire Programs. Logistics Specialist and CDL Driver with Virginia Task Force 1 USAR team, and acting lead instructor for logistics and FMCSA CDL Drivers Training. Scott 3m SCBA Supplied Air repair and training Technician. Grew up in the Volunteer fire service in New Jersey starting in 2002 and started as a career Firefighter/EMT in Loudoun County VA in 2010. Prior to joining the career fire service, I was a heavy-duty truck and equipment mechanic for truck drivers for 8 years.

The Effective Role Of The Fire/EMS Service Instructor: A Way To Lead And Influence

The opportunity to model and provide the role of a Fire/EMS Instructor is something we try and grasp every day! training provides an angle, a conduit, a platform for knowledge and abilities to the department. It's a gift to be an effective instructor. It's a way to engage with every member of the department. From humility, consistency, and integrity to empower, trust and team building within training. It provides a reminder of the immense impact on those who train and pass on knowledge in the Fire/EMS service.

Presenter:  Jeff McPhearson

Presenter Biography:  Jeff currently works for Prince George Fire and EMS as a senior firefighter, critical care paramedic with over 30 years of EMS experience and 11 years of fire service experience. Jeff also works for Virginia Department of Fire Programs as an adjunct instructor and Hanover Fire & EMS as a contract EMS/Fire instructor teaching many programs from Paramedic, EMT, Firefighter 1 & 2 to include the Fire Instructor and Fire Officer tracks. Jeff is an adjunct faculty for NAEMT, Training Center Faculty for AHA and an Education coordinator for Virginia Office of OEMS. Jeff has been involved with tactical medicine for over 12 years bringing the first NAEMT TCCC program to the Tri-Cities with Fort Gregg-Adams. 

The Stuff They Didn't Teach In Officer Class

When those bugles are pinned on your collar, you"ve ARRIVED right? Unfortunately, that is the thought process in many of our heads when we are placed in Leadership positions. The truth is we are certified, we passed a test and killed the interview, so we become entitled. Just because we hold a certification on our transcript, it does not mean that we are fully prepared to lead in today's fire service. All too often our ego gets in the way when we go from taking direction to giving it, and we forget all the lessons (good and bad) we learned while we were riding backwards preparing to wear those bugles. I say this because I am one of these leaders who fell victim to my own hype. I was failing miserably in my role as a leader and had no idea because the calls were answered, and everyone was going home safe after shift. An opportunity for Self-Reflection on what I was doing and the impact it was having on my team at work and more importantly my family at home gave me the ability to make major changes. These changes made in attitude, priorities and purpose were leading factors in personal, professional and departmental goals coming to fruition for myself but also members of our team. Together we all started to thrive on and off the job. The goal now is to share these simple steps with anyone willing to listen so that the next generation of leaders doesn't have to play catch up as they progress in their career. The wasted years of ineffective leadership cannot be changed but rather used as an example of what not to do and how to course correct to a more impactful and prosperous experience for you as a leader but importantly for your crew and your family at home when the shift is over.

Presenter:  Randolph Feltner

Presenter Biography:  Randy Feltner currently serves as a Battalion Chief with Naval District Washington Fire and Emergency Services. He has 24 years’ experience in Fire and EMS both as a career and volunteer firefighter. He is a graduate of the 2017 Virginia Fire Officers Academy and the 2018 Virginia Chief Officers Academy where he currently serves as a staff member. He graduated from Columbia Southern University with an M.S. Emergency Services Management and a B.S. Fire Service Administration. He is a Health and Wellness Advocate for Firefighters and a Survivor of a Heart Attack and Cardiac Arrest while on duty in 2018. Since his cardiac event he has become a spokesperson for Survivors Have Heart which is a support and advocacy group for Heart Attack Survivors nationwide. He has presented on Leadership and Health/Wellness at Conferences and Workshops across the Country. Most importantly he is a father of two young girls and has been happily married to his wife Katie for 20 years.

Building Your Replacement

Everyone who walks through the door of the firehouse has a similar answer when asked why they are there, "I want to help people" is usually the response given. As we move through our career some have the fortune to be given the opportunity to lead the same firefighters who are giving that answer. Those leaders are given the opportunity to have a true impact before their time is done. The hard truth is all our careers will end and eventually nobody who works in our stations will remember our names, no matter how much we contribute or how many accolades we receive. Not one firefighter has ever taken the oath to become famous or be remembered, they all did it to help people. That help isn't just for the citizens we serve, it's also for the people we serve with. As leaders our job is to prepare the next in line to take our spot when we leave. This course talks about how to ensure there is no drop off when the day comes for you to move on. Professional Development is not about padding your resume but gaining the knowledge needed to be an effective leader from the moment you get the bugles pinned on your collar or that title is given to you. The impact we have on the fire service has nothing to do with us, it lives in the firefighters we leave behind to replace us. That impact will never show if we do not prepare the generation that is to take our place and that preparation starts on the very first day we start in our position.

Presenter:  Randolph Feltner

Presenter Biography:  Randy Feltner currently serves as a Battalion Chief with Naval District Washington Fire and Emergency Services. He has 24 years’ experience in Fire and EMS both as a career and volunteer firefighter. He is a graduate of the 2017 Virginia Fire Officers Academy and the 2018 Virginia Chief Officers Academy where he currently serves as a staff member. He graduated from Columbia Southern University with an M.S. Emergency Services Management and a B.S. Fire Service Administration. He is a Health and Wellness Advocate for Firefighters and a Survivor of a Heart Attack and Cardiac Arrest while on duty in 2018. Since his cardiac event he has become a spokesperson for Survivors Have Heart which is a support and advocacy group for Heart Attack Survivors nationwide. He has presented on Leadership and Health/Wellness at Conferences and Workshops across the Country. Most importantly he is a father of two young girls and has been happily married to his wife Katie for 20 years.

CO = HR X SV, The Most Important Formula In EMS

The course will provide a brief review of the A & P of the human body mainly the heart. We will then talk about normal functions, then relate many of the diseases that can decrease cardiac output. How medicines can impact the heart rate and/or stroke volume to increase or decrease cardiac output. Cardiac Output is also a factor in the formula for blood pressure so we will discuss that formula also. This is an interactive presentation with the members of the class. 

Presenter:  Jeff McPhearson

Presenter Biography:  Jeff currently works for Prince George Fire and EMS as a senior firefighter, critical care paramedic with over 30 years of EMS experience and 11 years of fire service experience. Jeff also works for Virginia Department of Fire Programs as an adjunct instructor and Hanover Fire & EMS as a contract EMS/Fire instructor teaching many programs from Paramedic, EMT, Firefighter 1 & 2 to include the Fire Instructor and Fire Officer tracks. Jeff is an adjunct faculty for NAEMT, Training Center Faculty for AHA and an Education coordinator for Virginia Office of OEMS. Jeff has been involved with tactical medicine for over 12 years bringing the first NAEMT TCCC program to the Tri-Cities with Fort Gregg-Adams. 

Company Operations In Garden Apartment Fires

This course will provide firefighters and company officers with tactical considerations to be successful at their next fire in a garden style apartment. As our population increases, as does property value. The public is seeking affordable living with many different amenities at an affordable price. With the increase in this type of construction comes the increased chances of fires. Add this to the already decaying garden apartments that exist in your community and we have a fire problem and a life safety problem for our citizens that is here to stay. This class will cover ways to support the incident commander and other command considerations. It will cover construction, access issues, the rescue problem, water supply, line selection, fire attack considerations and more. The goal of this program is to provide the student with the knowledge needed to support the commander in the street and ensure that sound tactics are implemented for a successful outcome.

Presenter:  Jarrod M Sergi

Presenter Biography:  Jarrod Sergi is a proud member of Norfolk Fire Rescue (VA). He is currently assigned to Battalion 3 in the Norview area of the city. Jarrod is a State Instructor for both the Virginia Department of Fire Programs and the National Fire Academy focusing on MAYDAY, Strategy/Tactics and high-rise fire operations. Jarrod serves as a committee member for NFPA 14 and is a graduate of the National Fire Academy’s Executive Fire Officer Program. Prior to working for the city of Norfolk he served onboard the USS Iwo Jima as a Damage Controlman and a Search and Rescue Swimmer. He has been featured in several fire service publications and lectures across the country on the importance of strong company level leadership.

Composed In The Midst Of Chaos

During this training session, we will focus on providing support for coping with psychological health issues related to first responders, professional mental health, stress management, and workplace depression. The exercises and demonstrations will help participants develop emotional de-escalation techniques, effective communication skills, and empathetic strategies. By the end of the training, participants will have the tools to better support individuals during critical incidents and improve outcomes.

Presenter:  Reggie Parker

Presenter Biography:  Reggie Parker serves as the behavioral health coordinator for the City of Hoover. With over 30 years of law enforcement experience, he has developed a diverse skill set encompassing training, negotiation, team leadership, and counseling. In addition to being a Certified Hostage Negotiator, he held the position of team leader for the crisis negotiation team before retiring as a Detective Sergeant in October 2021. Furthermore, he contributed to the field as an instructor for the National Association of School Resource Officers, where he assisted officers in transitioning from the streets to a school setting. As a licensed professional counselor (LPC), Reggie directly engages with first responders and trauma clients, leveraging his mental health knowledge to enhance his practice. He completed his Master of Science in Community Agency Counseling from Jacksonville State University in 2011 and also holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Sociology and Corrections from the same university, which he earned in 1994.

Never Forget Where It All Started

Reminding us of the importance of never forgetting our humble beginnings and who was there with us and the need sometimes to go home.

Presenter:  Allen Baldwin

Presenter Biography:  Currently serving as the Deputy Chief of the York County Virginia Department of Fire and Life Safety. Been involved in the fire service for over forty years and still an active responder and suppression instructor. Has served as both a career and volunteer officer in various positions. Holds a Master’s Degree in Organizational Leadership, a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Administration, and an Associate’s Degree in Fire Science and Administration. Additionally, a graduate of the National Fire Academy Executive Fire Officer Academy, Fire Officer IV certification, is Nationally and Virginia certified EMT, Past President of the Virginia Fire Chiefs Association and the Cumberland Valley Firefighters
Association, Currently serving on the Board of Directors for the South Eastern Association of Fire Chiefs and Emergency Responder Safety Institute, Chief Fire Officer, Chief EMS Officer, and Chief Training Officer Designation from the Center for Public Safety Excellence.

Pediatric Trauma: Injuries Across The Ages

This course will provide a foundational review of key pediatric trauma care concepts.  Using interactive case studies, examples of various injuries occurring across the ages of 0-18 years old will be shared.  Pediatric readiness strategies for Emergency Medical Services will be incorporated throughout the presentation.

Presenter(s):  Kelley Rumsey & Tracey Taylor

Presenter(s) Biography:  Kelley has practiced in various roles in trauma, emergency, and critical care nursing for over thirty years. In 2019, Kelley completed her Doctor of Nursing Practice. Nationally, she has served many years in the advancement of nursing certification exams including the Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN), Trauma Certified Registered Nurse (TCRN) and Certified Burn Registered Nurse (CBRN). In addition to championing nursing certification, Dr. Rumsey has served in many capacities in regional Emergency Medical Services and state trauma system development. She is the 2021 recipient of the Virginia Governor’s EMS Award for Outstanding Contribution to EMS Health and Safety for her work with First responder mental health and peer support.

Six Steps To Becoming A Critical Decision Maker: Leadership 101

Chief Michael Barakey's book, titled "Critical Decision Making, Point-to-Point Leadership in Fire and Emergency Services," is the platform for this 1.75-hour workshop. Chief Barakey uses the writings and case studies in the book to provide all fire service members the opportunity to review the decision making that occurred on large scale incidents.  Then, based on the six steps of becoming a Critical Decision Maker, review case study decisions from this new perspective. Learning the six steps to becoming a Critical Decision Maker leads to achievement as problem solving is a journey (from one point to another) and overcoming the obstacles to achieve a successful outcome. Immersion, Influence, Encouragement, Vision, Transformation, and Implementation are the six steps that allows firefighters and officers to progress from point to point.  This workshop provides the fundamental principles that identify the challenges that fire service leader's encounters, and then provide a step-by-step process to get through difficult situations and incidents.

Presenter:  Michael Barakey

Presenter Biography:  Michael J. Barakey is a 31-year fire service veteran and is the Fire Chief of Suffolk (VA) Fire & Rescue and serves on the 9-1-1 Services Board, appointed by Governor Youngkin in 2023. Barakey is a nationally registered paramedic and is a neonatal/pediatric critical care paramedic for the Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters. Barakey is the participating agency representative and former task force leader for VA-TF2, one of the 28 National Urban Search and Rescue Teams. Barakey is the Chair of the Hampton Roads Fire Chief’s Association and has a master’s degree in public administration from Old Dominion University and graduated the National Fire Academy’s Executive Fire Officer Program in 2009, is credentialed as a Chief Fire Officer, and is a PEER Team Leader for the Commission on Fire Accreditation International. Barakey authored Critical Decision Making: Point-To-Point Leadership in Fire and Emergency Services through Fire Engineering Books and Videos, regularly contributes to Fire Engineering Magazine, and is an FDIC International pre-conference and classroom instructor.

The Art Of The Company Chauffeur

Engineer, Driver, Technician, Chauffer, Wheelman. Call it what you want, but we can all agree that the driver operator must be someone who does more than just drive from the fire house to the call. During this interactive lecture we will discuss some of the following questions and topics.  -The "why", why we need to be the best we can be as drivers  -Front seat communications  -What are some of the responsibilities of the Driver/Operator? Ethical and legal  -What are some challenges we may face?  -Human performance related to the driver/operator   -How do we overcome these challenges? -Do you really know your rig and how things work? -Mechanical challenges  -Positioning vs Parking - "Lone wolf" tactics. Can you do more then just stare at the pump panel? -Steering Wheel Holder vs Driver Operator This will be geared to those who are currently Driver Operators within their departments or those who aspire to be. This will be taught by a current engine company driver working for a larger metropolitan fire department within the DC capital Region who teaches driver operator classes within the area, both career and volunteer. This class will dive into some of the mechanical aspects of the rigs and things to look for to prevent any mechanical break downs or out of service time. We will discuss things that could go wrong on the fire ground and how to overcome these problems in a very interactive environment. The goal is for the drivers in the room to bounce ideas off each other and to be able to have an open discussion.

Presenter:  Brian Edwards

Presenter Biography:  Brian Edwards, Career Apparatus Technician with the Fairfax County Fire Rescue Department in Northern Virginia. Volunteer Firefighter/EMT with the Warrenton Volunteer Fire Department as training lieutenant. Adjunct fire service instructor with Fairfax County, Loudoun County, Training to Perform Under Pressure and Virginia Department of Fire Programs. Logistics Specialist and CDL Driver with Virginia Task Force 1 USAR team, and acting lead instructor for logistics and FMCSA CDL Drivers Training. Scott 3m SCBA Supplied Air repair and training Technician. Grew up in the Volunteer fire service in New Jersey starting in 2002 and started as a career Firefighter/EMT in Loudoun County VA in 2010. Prior to joining the career fire service, I was a heavy-duty truck and equipment mechanic for truck drivers for 8 years.

Leadership Expectations - What Does Your Team Expect?

This interactive class discusses how  company officers and chief officers can and should develop, discuss and deploy expectations with their crews. Topics discussed will surround operational, administrative and functional roles that fire and EMS officers need to help set the tone of their team. Attendees will be able to take back examples of expectations, riding assignments and how to start the discussion with their team. This class is good for the new or even seasoned officer that wants to improve accountability, and team dynamics.

Presenter:  Michael Carter

Presenter Biography:  Michael Carter is a 23-year veteran of fire and EMS serving in a myriad of emergency services positions ranging from Firefighter/Paramedic to Chief of the Department in combination and career organizations. Chief Carter is currently assigned as the Battalion Chief of Training with the City of Virginia Beach Fire Department (VBFD). He holds a bachelor’s degree in EMS Management a master’s degree in public administration and working on a Ph.D. in Public Administration. Chief Carter is a graduate of the Virginia Chief Officer Academy and the National Fire Academy Executive Fire Officer (EFO) Program and was one of the first to be credentialed as a Chief Medical Officer, now Chief EMS Officer (CEMSO) from the Center of Public Safety of Excellence. Additionally, he is actively with the Virginia Fire Chiefs Association serving on the Board of Directors and is also a member of the Virginia Fire Rescue Conference Committee.

Leadership Expectations - What Does Your Team Expect?

This interactive class discusses how  company officers and chief officers can and should develop, discuss and deploy expectations with their crews. Topics discussed will surround operational, administrative and functional roles that fire and EMS officers need to help set the tone of their team. Attendees will be able to take back examples of expectations, riding assignments and how to start the discussion with their team. This class is good for the new or even seasoned officer that wants to improve accountability, and team dynamics.

Presenter:  Michael Carter

Presenter Biography:  Michael Carter is a 23-year veteran of fire and EMS serving in a myriad of emergency services positions ranging from Firefighter/Paramedic to Chief of the Department in combination and career organizations. Chief Carter is currently assigned as the Battalion Chief of Training with the City of Virginia Beach Fire Department (VBFD). He holds a bachelor’s degree in EMS Management a master’s degree in public administration and working on a Ph.D. in Public Administration. Chief Carter is a graduate of the Virginia Chief Officer Academy and the National Fire Academy Executive Fire Officer (EFO) Program and was one of the first to be credentialed as a Chief Medical Officer, now Chief EMS Officer (CEMSO) from the Center of Public Safety of Excellence. Additionally, he is actively with the Virginia Fire Chiefs Association serving on the Board of Directors and is also a member of the Virginia Fire Rescue Conference Committee.

It's Not Your Mayday Or Is It?

The lecture will discuss proven policies and procedures that not only assist with the initial R.I.T. but also the commanding officer during a Mayday. Many tricks of the trade will be discussed as well as the basic training and equipment needed to affect a firefighter rescue. Multiple scenarios / case studies will be brought to light providing valuable information. The students will be an integral part of the lecture not only gaining valuable information but using the best team approach in providing information to complete complex firefighter down tasks.

Presenter:  Jimmy Payne

Presenter Biography:  James “Jimmy” Payne served 28 years in the Baltimore City Fire Department, retiring as the Captain of Rescue 1 - Baltimore’s only Heavy Rescue. He worked in the busiest engine and ladder companies that the city had to offer. Jimmy served as a member of multiple specialized teams such as the BCFD Dive Rescue Team, the SRO Team (Special Operations) and the Maryland Search & Rescue Taskforce 2 as a Hazardous Materials Specialist. In 2015, Jimmy took a position as Division Chief of Midway Fire in Georgetown County, SC. Jimmy teaches not only National but International.

It's Not Your Mayday Or Is It?

The lecture will discuss proven policies and procedures that not only assist with the initial R.I.T. but also the commanding officer during a Mayday. Many tricks of the trade will be discussed as well as the basic training and equipment needed to affect a firefighter rescue. Multiple scenarios / case studies will be brought to light providing valuable information. The students will be an integral part of the lecture not only gaining valuable information but using the best team approach in providing information to complete complex firefighter down tasks.

Presenter:  Jimmy Payne

Presenter Biography:  James “Jimmy” Payne served 28 years in the Baltimore City Fire Department, retiring as the Captain of Rescue 1 - Baltimore’s only Heavy Rescue. He worked in the busiest engine and ladder companies that the city had to offer. Jimmy served as a member of multiple specialized teams such as the BCFD Dive Rescue Team, the SRO Team (Special Operations) and the Maryland Search & Rescue Taskforce 2 as a Hazardous Materials Specialist. In 2015, Jimmy took a position as Division Chief of Midway Fire in Georgetown County, SC. Jimmy teaches not only National but International.

Firefighter EMS Treatment - Hands-on-Training Course

This course will cover common emergencies with injured firefighters such as smoke inhalation, burns, sprains and strains, fractures, and heat emergencies. Students will practice hands-on skills in providing treatment and care for the injured firefighter. The focus will be on removal of contaminated firefighter gear during an emergency and stabilization of the C-spine after a traumatic fall. Rapid Gear removal techniques from the firefighter in cardiac arrest. Practical exercises will include trauma assessment and splinting of sprains and fractures. Treatment of heat related emergencies to include IV administration & fluid resuscitation. In the afternoon students will integrate into the live burn track/MAYDAY putting it together scenarios to practice skills, with ambulance transports.  

Mayday Command - Hands-on-Training Course

Fireground Maydays are among the most critical and challenging situations a firefighter can face. This intensive one-day Hands-On Training (HOT) class is designed to equip fire service professionals with the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively manage and command a Mayday incident. Participants will explore the causes of Maydays, preventative measures, and the application of command and ICS tools to mitigate these high-pressure situations.

A Comprehensive Look At Recruit Wellness

Course is designed to give you a looked into how the Virginia Beach Fire Department approaches Recruit Wellness. The Department looks at Recruit Wellness in a multi pronged approach. The areas that will be discussed with be the physical fitness, nutrition, sleep and preparedness.

Presenter:  Aaron McKissick

Presenter Biography:  Public Safety Wellness Coordinator for the Virginia Beach Fire Department and Owner of 1st Due Wellness Consulting LLC

Engine Company Operations In Multiple Dwellings

This class will address the challenges and tactics for an engine company to be successful for fires in multiple dwellings. It will present proven methods to combat and simplify the multiple-dwelling fire. Topics include tactics, challenges, tactical priorities to ensure fireground success, and the tactical triage of ensuring search and fire attack work together for successful citizen outcomes.  

Presenter:  Jonah Smith

Presenter Biography:  Jonah Smith grew up in Richmond, VA where his exposure to the fire service began in the Church Hill area of the RVA with some of the best firefighters in the city. Jonah attended the University of South Carolina for both a Bachelors and Masters and started with the Columbia Fire Department in 2003. After a few years, Jonah pursued a career with the Charlotte, NC Fire Department where he began in 2005. He is currently the Captain on Engine 20 in the city’s south side. Additionally, since the day he received his certifications in 2003, he has volunteered with departments including the Lexington County FD and Columbia Fire Department. Currently he serves as an Assistant Chief at the Pleasant Valley Fire Department in South Carolina. Jonah is a 10 time FDIC instructor and has presented at numerous conferences to include: Firehouse Expo, Fire Rescue International, South Carolina Fire Rescue, and the South Atlantic Fire Rescue Expo.

Fire Department Operations In Historic Properties

A look at the challenges of protecting historic properties  and the responsibility that comes with it.  Pre-planning, Operations, Tactics and setting your department up for success will be discussed.

Presenter:  Allen Baldwin

Presenter Biography:  Currently serving as the Deputy Chief of the York County Virginia Department of Fire and Life Safety. Been involved in the fire service for over forty years and still an active responder and suppression instructor. Has served as both a career and volunteer officer in various positions. Holds a Master’s Degree in Organizational Leadership, a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Administration, and an Associate’s Degree in Fire Science and Administration. Additionally, a graduate of the National Fire Academy Executive Fire Officer Academy, Fire Officer IV certification, is Nationally and Virginia certified EMT, Past President of the Virginia Fire Chiefs Association and the Cumberland Valley Firefighters Association, Currently serving on the Board of Directors for the South Eastern Association of Fire Chiefs and Emergency Responder Safety Institute, Chief Fire Officer, Chief EMS Officer, and Chief Training Officer Designation from the Center for Public Safety Excellence.

Getting From Perception To Reality Using Adaptive Planning

Let’s face facts.  The world and our surroundings are changing at ever-increasing speeds. This creates an ever-increasing situation of chasing your organizational tail.  Strategic planning at any level is challenging for even the best and most disciplined organizations.  Because of technology, what once took years and months can be accomplished in mere days and hours.  Traditional strategic planning processes can often be like pouring water into a container with holes.  In other words, when developing something, before being able to implement it, the environment that caused it is different.  Couple that with very few organizations working hard enough to get to the root causes of what needs to be done.  Instead, diving headfirst into a planning effort based on perception, not reality.  This remarkably relevant presentation will introduce the attendees to the fundamental principles of adaptive planning and a proven process to create alignment between what your organization needs to do to be successful and the fast-paced nature of the environment that drives what needs to be done. 

Presenter:  Cecil V. "Buddy" Martinette Jr. 

Presenter Biography:  Cecil V. “Buddy” Martinette Jr. owns PB/T Consulting, is a former Chief Executive Officer, and is a founding member of Spec Rescue International, a specialized rescue training and consultation company headquartered in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Before this position, Buddy served in the public sector as Chief of the Wilmington Fire Department in Wilmington, North Carolina (retired); Assistant County Administrator in Hanover County, Virginia; and Chief of the Lynchburg Fire and EMS Department in Lynchburg, Virginia. Buddy has written numerous articles for the fire service and frequently lectures on
organizational leadership and specialized rescue operations to public safety, military, industrial, and law enforcement organizations. Buddy is the author of the first, second, and third editions of the Jones & Bartlett book Trench Rescue: Principles and Practice to NFPA 1006 and 1670 and Fire Engineering Books Creating and Leading High-Performance Organizations. He was also awarded a design patent for his nut, bolt, and drill bit sizing tool called “Sizing Buddy.” Buddy has a Bachelor of Science in fire administration from Hampton University and a master’s in public administration from Troy State University. In addition, he is a graduate of the National Fire Academy Executive Fire Officer Program, where he received the Outstanding Research Award in leadership. He has also received the designation of Chief Fire Officer by the Commission on Chief Fire Officer Designation.

In The Hot Seat

The purpose of this course is to give each attendee the opportunity to learn from their experience and the experience of others, including the instructor. Each student experiences being first-in at multiple structure fires in multiple types of buildings. The challenge for students is to apply their understanding of building construction, fire behavior, and their agency resourcing, to formulate and communicate an incident action plan. Using a discussion-based approach to teach, the instructor then engages students in a discussion that dissects the fire problem to identify the cues and patterns available, consider the relative value of the information, and use that to improve the accuracy of the next decision at the next fire. The students also learn what to look for when assessing whether the plan is working (are we winning) or the danger signs that a plan is ineffective (are we losing). Because the students are actively engaged in the discussion, they learn from their own experience as well as the experience of others including the instructor.

Presenter:  Phil A Jose

Presenter Biography:  Phillip Jose, Deputy Chief, (Ret.), 30 years Seattle Fire. Chair SOG-PIA committees. Chief of the Year 2013. FDIC Instructor 20 years. 2008 Tom Brennan Award, Author Instructor 1 for Fire and Emergency Services, Air Management for the Fire Service, FE Handbook FF 1 and 2 ; FE “Bread and Butter” video, SCBA.

Introduction To Mechanical Ventilation

Participants will be introduced to the use of Mechanical Ventilators as it applies to EMS scene response and inter-facility transports. Much of our time will be spent discussing BVM vs Mechanical Ventilator use and Modes of ventilation with advantages and disadvantages of each mode discussed. Settings/adjustments and troubleshooting alarms will also be discussed. Participants will be given hands on time using the Zoll AEV ventilator in various scenarios.

Presenter:  Shawn Fields 

Presenter Biography: 14 years of experience in Fire & EMS. Currently serve as Lieutenant with Chesterfield Fire & EMS. Function as Lead ALS Field Training Officer and adjunct instructor for both EMS and Fire Training within the department. Previously presented at EMS Symposium and Central VA EMS Expo. Certified as VA EMT-P, NREMT-P, FP-C and CCEMT.

Leadership On The Spectrum

This presentation will cover leadership challenges of someone who has a social disorder, specifically Aspergers, while in a supervisory role. I will also discuss why public service can be appealing to those who have social disorders or on the spectrum. I will be sharing how I overcame doubts from childhood regarding fitting into society to working in a position of leadership. Attendees will hear management and leadership principles that helped me and can help anyone get on the path of servant leadership. Attendees will hear tips on how to manage when social interactions can be challenging.

Presenter:  Keith Besley

Presenter Biography:  Keith Besley has been in emergency services since 2000 when he began as a volunteer with Mineral Volunteer Fire Department in Louisa County. During his career, Keith has worked in various roles including as a 911 dispatcher for Fluvanna County and as an EMT for Richmond Ambulance Authority. Keith currently works full time as a Captain for Spotsylvania County Fire, Rescue, and Emergency Management where he is assigned to Ladder 10 on B shift. Keith enjoys teaching DPO, DAO, and in Spotsylvania’s Officer Development Program. Keith is a part- time dispatcher for Louisa County Sheriffs Office, a part-time Firefighter/EMT for Louisa County Fire and Emergency Services, and recently an adjunct instructor for Virginia Department of Fire Programs. When not at work, Keith enjoys time at home or traveling with his wife Amanda and their two sons Henry and William.

Management Of Cardiac Arrest

This course would be delivered in lecture format based upon several case. Each case will be presented at intervals with focused discussions on specific interventions, etc supporting the suggested intervention. This information will be drawn from the medical literature. We will approach one case with an emphasis on the BLS management of cardiac arrest. A second case will focus on BLS and ALS management issues. The third case  will focus on initial BLS care, transitioning to ALS care once assets are on scene; in the ALS portion of this case, not only ALS management will be reviewed but also BLS-assist of the ALS providers will be considered. Once these general cardiac arrest cases are complete, we will take a break. and then return with additional cases, reviewing traumatic cardiac arrest, overdose-related cardiac arrest, cardiac arrest in the pregnant patient, etc.

Presenter:  William Brady, MD

Presenter Biography:  Dr. William J. Brady is a Professor of Emergency Medicine, Cardiovascular Medicine, and Nursing at the University of Virginia, as well as being the Vice Chair for Faculty Development in the Department of Emergency Medicine, and has been awarded the University's prestigious David A. Harrison Distinguished Educator Award and All-University Teaching Award. In addition to his positions at UVA, Dr. Brady is the the Medical Director for Albemarle County Fire Rescue. // Lucian Mirra has two decades of experience as an EMS provider, leader, and educator. He has served as a firefighter/paramedic, EMS supervisor, emergency management coordinator, training officer, and paramedic program director. He has presented at numerous conferences including EMS World Expo and the International Association of Emergency Managers Conference, and has authored several textbook chapters and journal articles. He holds a master’s degree in education and is currently a doctoral candidate in education at the University of Virginia. He currently serves as the EMS Coordinator for Albemarle County Fire Rescue and is a life member of the Western Albemarle Rescue Squad.

MCS Education For EMS And First Responders

This course is designed to identify MCS patients and understand how to manage them in the event of an emergency.

Presenter:  Mindy Seigh

Presenter Biography:  Mindy Seigh, BSN, RN, CCTC, VAD-C, Senior Heart Transplant/VAD Coordinator at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital

Simulation Escape Rooms: One Hour Course: Session #1

Escape Rooms are fun team building exercises based on a theme and puzzle/problem solving that leads to an exit from the room. Bob Page has developed an EMS related scenario with high fidelity simulation and added a theme designed to challenge EMS providers critical thinking, situational awareness and patient assessment and management techniques. it is recommended that at least one ALS provider be on each team. In this class, a team or up to 6-10 enters the "room" with a scenario. The team must find clues and solve all of the puzzles to get their equipment and perfectly perform required skills on high fidelity simulators to get the "key" to open the box that has the Final Solution"; a super serum that will save the patient's life and allow the successful escape from the room. Clues are a part of the scene survey, patient assessment findings. As time goes on the patient deteriorates and the team must manage the patient while solving the puzzles to get the "solutions" Without it, the team is destined to perform CPR until your team solves all the puzzles or time expires.  Time slots are one hour per team which allows time for pre-brief, scenario, and debrief afterwards. You will need to sign up for the time slot you want to attend. Get a group from your service and sign up for the same time slot or work with another group you form onsite. 

Presenter:  Bob Page

Presenter Biography:  Bob Page is an internationally known speaker, instructor, author and paramedic. He is recognized for his energetic, humorous and motivational style. Bob takes ordinarily dry and hard to teach topics and transforms them into a fun, learning experience. He holds a Master’s degree in Adult Education. Bob has been an instructor for almost 4 decades teaching a variety of adult education courses from customer service to advanced medical care. He is a Certified Healthcare Simulation Educator and Operations Specialist. He has presented over 4000 seminars worldwide. He was recognized by his peers in Missouri as Missouri’s “Most Creative Educator” in 2009 and was awarded the Legends That Walk Among us Award from NAEMSE is 2012.

Simulation Escape Rooms: One Hour Course: Session #2

Escape Rooms are fun team building exercises based on a theme and puzzle/problem solving that leads to an exit from the room. Bob Page has developed an EMS related scenario with high fidelity simulation and added a theme designed to challenge EMS providers critical thinking, situational awareness and patient assessment and management techniques. it is recommended that at least one ALS provider be on each team. In this class, a team or up to 6-10 enters the "room" with a scenario. The team must find clues and solve all of the puzzles to get their equipment and perfectly perform required skills on high fidelity simulators to get the "key" to open the box that has the Final Solution"; a super serum that will save the patient's life and allow the successful escape from the room. Clues are a part of the scene survey, patient assessment findings. As time goes on the patient deteriorates and the team must manage the patient while solving the puzzles to get the "solutions" Without it, the team is destined to perform CPR until your team solves all the puzzles or time expires.  Time slots are one hour per team which allows time for pre-brief, scenario, and debrief afterwards. You will need to sign up for the time slot you want to attend. Get a group from your service and sign up for the same time slot or work with another group you form onsite. 

Presenter:  Bob Page

Presenter Biography:  Bob Page is an internationally known speaker, instructor, author and paramedic. He is recognized for his energetic, humorous and motivational style. Bob takes ordinarily dry and hard to teach topics and transforms them into a fun, learning experience. He holds a Master’s degree in Adult Education. Bob has been an instructor for almost 4 decades teaching a variety of adult education courses from customer service to advanced medical care. He is a Certified Healthcare Simulation Educator and Operations Specialist. He has presented over 4000 seminars worldwide. He was recognized by his peers in Missouri as Missouri’s “Most Creative Educator” in 2009 and was awarded the Legends That Walk Among us Award from NAEMSE is 2012.

Simulation Escape Rooms: One Hour Course: Session #3

Escape Rooms are fun team building exercises based on a theme and puzzle/problem solving that leads to an exit from the room. Bob Page has developed an EMS related scenario with high fidelity simulation and added a theme designed to challenge EMS providers critical thinking, situational awareness and patient assessment and management techniques. it is recommended that at least one ALS provider be on each team. In this class, a team or up to 6-10 enters the "room" with a scenario. The team must find clues and solve all of the puzzles to get their equipment and perfectly perform required skills on high fidelity simulators to get the "key" to open the box that has the Final Solution"; a super serum that will save the patient's life and allow the successful escape from the room. Clues are a part of the scene survey, patient assessment findings. As time goes on the patient deteriorates and the team must manage the patient while solving the puzzles to get the "solutions" Without it, the team is destined to perform CPR until your team solves all the puzzles or time expires.  Time slots are one hour per team which allows time for pre-brief, scenario, and debrief afterwards. You will need to sign up for the time slot you want to attend. Get a group from your service and sign up for the same time slot or work with another group you form onsite. 

Presenter:  Bob Page

Presenter Biography:  Bob Page is an internationally known speaker, instructor, author and paramedic. He is recognized for his energetic, humorous and motivational style. Bob takes ordinarily dry and hard to teach topics and transforms them into a fun, learning experience. He holds a Master’s degree in Adult Education. Bob has been an instructor for almost 4 decades teaching a variety of adult education courses from customer service to advanced medical care. He is a Certified Healthcare Simulation Educator and Operations Specialist. He has presented over 4000 seminars worldwide. He was recognized by his peers in Missouri as Missouri’s “Most Creative Educator” in 2009 and was awarded the Legends That Walk Among us Award from NAEMSE is 2012.

Simulation Escape Rooms: One Hour Course: Session #4

Escape Rooms are fun team building exercises based on a theme and puzzle/problem solving that leads to an exit from the room. Bob Page has developed an EMS related scenario with high fidelity simulation and added a theme designed to challenge EMS providers critical thinking, situational awareness and patient assessment and management techniques. it is recommended that at least one ALS provider be on each team. In this class, a team or up to 6-10 enters the "room" with a scenario. The team must find clues and solve all of the puzzles to get their equipment and perfectly perform required skills on high fidelity simulators to get the "key" to open the box that has the Final Solution"; a super serum that will save the patient's life and allow the successful escape from the room. Clues are a part of the scene survey, patient assessment findings. As time goes on the patient deteriorates and the team must manage the patient while solving the puzzles to get the "solutions" Without it, the team is destined to perform CPR until your team solves all the puzzles or time expires.  Time slots are one hour per team which allows time for pre-brief, scenario, and debrief afterwards. You will need to sign up for the time slot you want to attend. Get a group from your service and sign up for the same time slot or work with another group you form onsite. 

Presenter:  Bob Page

Presenter Biography:  Bob Page is an internationally known speaker, instructor, author and paramedic. He is recognized for his energetic, humorous and motivational style. Bob takes ordinarily dry and hard to teach topics and transforms them into a fun, learning experience. He holds a Master’s degree in Adult Education. Bob has been an instructor for almost 4 decades teaching a variety of adult education courses from customer service to advanced medical care. He is a Certified Healthcare Simulation Educator and Operations Specialist. He has presented over 4000 seminars worldwide. He was recognized by his peers in Missouri as Missouri’s “Most Creative Educator” in 2009 and was awarded the Legends That Walk Among us Award from NAEMSE is 2012.

Simulation Escape Rooms: One Hour Course: Session #5

Escape Rooms are fun team building exercises based on a theme and puzzle/problem solving that leads to an exit from the room. Bob Page has developed an EMS related scenario with high fidelity simulation and added a theme designed to challenge EMS providers critical thinking, situational awareness and patient assessment and management techniques. it is recommended that at least one ALS provider be on each team. In this class, a team or up to 6-10 enters the "room" with a scenario. The team must find clues and solve all of the puzzles to get their equipment and perfectly perform required skills on high fidelity simulators to get the "key" to open the box that has the Final Solution"; a super serum that will save the patient's life and allow the successful escape from the room. Clues are a part of the scene survey, patient assessment findings. As time goes on the patient deteriorates and the team must manage the patient while solving the puzzles to get the "solutions" Without it, the team is destined to perform CPR until your team solves all the puzzles or time expires.  Time slots are one hour per team which allows time for pre-brief, scenario, and debrief afterwards. You will need to sign up for the time slot you want to attend. Get a group from your service and sign up for the same time slot or work with another group you form onsite. 

Presenter:  Bob Page

Presenter Biography:  Bob Page is an internationally known speaker, instructor, author and paramedic. He is recognized for his energetic, humorous and motivational style. Bob takes ordinarily dry and hard to teach topics and transforms them into a fun, learning experience. He holds a Master’s degree in Adult Education. Bob has been an instructor for almost 4 decades teaching a variety of adult education courses from customer service to advanced medical care. He is a Certified Healthcare Simulation Educator and Operations Specialist. He has presented over 4000 seminars worldwide. He was recognized by his peers in Missouri as Missouri’s “Most Creative Educator” in 2009 and was awarded the Legends That Walk Among us Award from NAEMSE is 2012.

Simulation Escape Rooms: One Hour Course: Session #6

Escape Rooms are fun team building exercises based on a theme and puzzle/problem solving that leads to an exit from the room. Bob Page has developed an EMS related scenario with high fidelity simulation and added a theme designed to challenge EMS providers critical thinking, situational awareness and patient assessment and management techniques. it is recommended that at least one ALS provider be on each team. In this class, a team or up to 6-10 enters the "room" with a scenario. The team must find clues and solve all of the puzzles to get their equipment and perfectly perform required skills on high fidelity simulators to get the "key" to open the box that has the Final Solution"; a super serum that will save the patient's life and allow the successful escape from the room. Clues are a part of the scene survey, patient assessment findings. As time goes on the patient deteriorates and the team must manage the patient while solving the puzzles to get the "solutions" Without it, the team is destined to perform CPR until your team solves all the puzzles or time expires.  Time slots are one hour per team which allows time for pre-brief, scenario, and debrief afterwards. You will need to sign up for the time slot you want to attend. Get a group from your service and sign up for the same time slot or work with another group you form onsite. 

Presenter:  Bob Page

Presenter Biography:  Bob Page is an internationally known speaker, instructor, author and paramedic. He is recognized for his energetic, humorous and motivational style. Bob takes ordinarily dry and hard to teach topics and transforms them into a fun, learning experience. He holds a Master’s degree in Adult Education. Bob has been an instructor for almost 4 decades teaching a variety of adult education courses from customer service to advanced medical care. He is a Certified Healthcare Simulation Educator and Operations Specialist. He has presented over 4000 seminars worldwide. He was recognized by his peers in Missouri as Missouri’s “Most Creative Educator” in 2009 and was awarded the Legends That Walk Among us Award from NAEMSE is 2012.

Six Tips To Guide The New Fire Officers

As an officer you'll make critical decisions on training, safety, personnel, and on-scene operations. Join me as we share six invaluable tips for aspiring officers and current officers alike. In this presentation we will review a series of particular tips on how to be the best officer possible. This comprehensive training will discuss aspects on the importance of various topics such as utilizing your resources, mental health in the fire service, the importance of professionalism as an officer, and more. You will walk away with a better understanding of the multifaceted parts of being a fire officer. Let's ignite our potential and make a difference.

Presenter: Tom Marchiano

Presenter Biography: Tom Marchiano has been in the fire service since 2004. Over the years Tom has held the positions of Lieutenant, Captain, Assistant Chief, and currently serves as Chief of Department. Fueled by his passion for training, Tom obtained National Fire Instructor certification from the New York State Fire Academy. In 2020 he became a contributor for The Firehouse Tribune, writing articles for the website and hosting the website's podcast. In 2021 he joined the Technical Rescue team in Orange County NY. With a passion for leadership, Tom created a presentation for new and aspiring fire officers which he presents at conferences as well as virtually. In addition to his fire service experience, Tom has been a 911 dispatcher for 15 years. Tom continues to follow his passion for training and uses his skills and experiences to assist first responders in becoming the best version of themselves on and off duty.

The 5-Tool Firefighter: Five Key Attributes To A Well-Rounded Firefighter

It has long been said firefighters are a special breed of athletes. In fact, firefighting and sports go hand in hand. Instead of training for world championships or gold medals, firefighters are training each and every day to protect life and property. So, what separates good firefighters from exceptional well-rounded firefighters? Simply five key attributes obtained and implemented through my time in the fire service and as an athlete. These five key attributes (leadership, firematics, situational awareness, fitness for duty & adaptability) are a MUST for all firefighters to add to their arsenal of weapons, along with takeaways to implement them into their development ranging from the probationary firefighter all the way up to the seasoned veteran. Armed with research, personal stories and data driven facts, this presentation will address the attributes of what is considered a well-rounded 5-Tool Firefighter. Based on the book, "The 5-Tool Firefighter".

Presenter:  Nicholas Higgins

Presenter Biography Nicholas J. Higgins is a lieutenant in charge of training for Piscataway Fire District #2 in New Jersey. With over 20 years of service, Nick is a NJ State Fire Instructor, an advocate for the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation and an international speaker. Nick has shared his message to the fire service speaking on many firefighting related topics at many state and national conferences such as FIREHOUSE and has been a guest on many fire service podcasts such as "S-Alarm Task Force", "Firefighter Success" & "Crew1stCulture". In addition, Nick is the founder of The Firehouse Tribune, co-host of "Station Talk Podcast" and the host of "The 5-Tool Firefighter Podcast". Nick has authored two books, "The 5-Tool Firefighter" and "The 5- Tool Firefighter Tactical Workbook" and is published in Firefighter Nation.

You Do Not Want To Promote!

The fire service is full of individuals who say they want to be company officers, but are incredibly unprepared for the weight of leadership, misunderstand the role of the company officer, have never been provided with mentors, and in many cases, all of the above. Although there is no substitution for technical competency when called upon to "do the job", the vast majority of time is not spent in that role. In fact, the easiest part of being a company officer is running calls. The hard part is living a life worthy of the title aspired to. The presentation will have an open and honest discussion around what it truly means to be a company officer, and how to navigate the minefield of leadership. This program will be perhaps the single most direct and honest conversation around what is involved in being a company officer.

Presenter:  Matthew Tobia

​Presenter Biography:  Matthew Tobia is the Fire Chief with the City of Harrisonburg (VA) Fire Department and is a 35- year student of emergency services. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Maryland Baltimore County and is a graduate of the Executive Fire Officer program at the National Fire Academy. Matt has served as a member of the Editorial Board for Fire-Rescue Magazine and has authored over 120 articles. He is also the former chair of the IAFC’s Safety, Health and Survival Section, holds the Chief Fire Officer credential and is a member of the Institute of Fire Engineers. Prior to Harrisonburg, Chief Tobia spent 23 years with the Anne Arundel County (MD) Fire Department and four years with Loudoun County (VA) Fire Rescue. Matt began volunteering in south central Pennsylvania in 1987 and is active with the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) and the Mid Atlantic Burn Camp for Children.

A Comprehensive Look At Recruit Wellness

Course is designed to give you a looked into how the Virginia Beach Fire Department approaches Recruit Wellness. The Department looks at Recruit Wellness in a multi pronged approach. The areas that will be discussed with be the physical fitness, nutrition, sleep and preparedness.

Presenter:  Aaron McKissick

Presenter Biography:  Public Safety Wellness Coordinator for the Virginia Beach Fire Department and Owner of 1st Due Wellness Consulting LLC

Leadership And A Movie

How to take a great leadership move and turn it into a station training on Leadership, Command and Presence.  A look at numerous movies that can be used for this activity along with supporting material and concepts to develop a fun out of the box approach to some great training.

Presenter:  Allen Baldwin

Presenter Biography:  Currently serving as the Deputy Chief of the York County Virginia Department of Fire and Life Safety. Been involved in the fire service for over forty years and still an active responder and suppression instructor. Has served as both a career and volunteer officer in various positions. Holds a Master’s Degree in Organizational Leadership, a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Administration, and an Associate’s Degree in Fire Science and Administration. Additionally, a graduate of the National Fire Academy Executive Fire Officer Academy, Fire Officer IV certification, is Nationally and Virginia certified EMT, Past President of the Virginia Fire Chiefs Association and the Cumberland Valley Firefighters Association, Currently serving on the Board of Directors for the South Eastern Association of Fire Chiefs and Emergency Responder Safety Institute, Chief Fire Officer, Chief EMS Officer, and Chief Training Officer Designation from the Center for Public Safety Excellence.

Leadership On The Spectrum

This presentation will cover leadership challenges of someone who has a social disorder, specifically Aspergers, while in a supervisory role. I will also discuss why public service can be appealing to those who have social disorders or on the spectrum. I will be sharing how I overcame doubts from childhood regarding fitting into society to working in a position of leadership. Attendees will hear management and leadership principles that helped me and can help anyone get on the path of servant leadership. Attendees will hear tips on how to manage when social interactions can be challenging.

Presenter:  Keith Besley

Presenter Biography:  Keith Besley has been in emergency services since 2000 when he began as a volunteer with Mineral Volunteer Fire Department in Louisa County. During his career, Keith has worked in various roles including as a 911 dispatcher for Fluvanna County and as an EMT for Richmond Ambulance Authority. Keith currently works full time as a Captain for Spotsylvania County Fire, Rescue, and Emergency Management where he is assigned to Ladder 10 on B shift. Keith enjoys teaching DPO, DAO, and in Spotsylvania’s Officer Development Program. Keith is a part- time dispatcher for Louisa County Sheriffs Office, a part-time Firefighter/EMT for Louisa County Fire and Emergency Services, and recently an adjunct instructor for Virginia Department of Fire Programs. When not at work, Keith enjoys time at home or traveling with his wife Amanda and their two sons Henry and William.

Maintaining Relevance: Leadership Required To Guide Future Organizations

Relevance is defined as “When something is "relevant," and it matters. Its relevance is clear. Relevance is simply the noun form of the adjective "relevant," which means "important to the matter at hand."  The fire service has a proud tradition of being our communities' “go-to” organization.  EMS, Hazardous Materials, Technical Rescue, Community Paramedicine, and Community Risk Reduction are all the results of our collective efforts to address what is needed to add value and continue to be relevant and meaningful to the people we serve.  The challenge for the fire service remains a constant push-pull between culture and tradition that may prevent many organizations from continuing to be the type of organization the community needs in the future. Successful fire and EMS organizations need to honor traditions and past efforts while also understanding that the best course of action may be to do things differently than they have always been done.    

Presenter:  Cecil V. "Buddy" Martinette Jr. 

Presenter Biography:  Cecil V. “Buddy” Martinette Jr. owns PB/T Consulting, is a former Chief Executive Officer, and is a founding member of Spec Rescue International, a specialized rescue training and consultation company headquartered in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Before this position, Buddy served in the public sector as Chief of the Wilmington Fire Department in Wilmington, North Carolina (retired); Assistant County Administrator in Hanover County, Virginia; and Chief of the Lynchburg Fire and EMS Department in Lynchburg, Virginia. Buddy has written numerous articles for the fire service and frequently lectures on organizational leadership and specialized rescue operations to public safety, military, industrial, and law enforcement organizations. Buddy is the author of the first, second, and third editions of the Jones & Bartlett book Trench Rescue: Principles and Practice to NFPA 1006 and 1670 and Fire Engineering Books Creating and Leading High-Performance Organizations. He was also awarded a design patent for his nut, bolt, and drill bit sizing tool called “Sizing Buddy.” Buddy has a Bachelor of Science in fire administration from Hampton University and a master’s in public administration from Troy State University. In addition, he is a graduate of the National Fire Academy Executive Fire Officer Program, where he received the Outstanding Research Award in leadership. He has also received the designation of Chief Fire Officer by the Commission on Chief Fire Officer Designation.

Management Of Cardiac Arrest

This course would be delivered in lecture format based upon several case. Each case will be presented at intervals with focused discussions on specific interventions, etc supporting the suggested intervention. This information will be drawn from the medical literature. We will approach one case with an emphasis on the BLS management of cardiac arrest. A second case will focus on BLS and ALS management issues. The third case  will focus on initial BLS care, transitioning to ALS care once assets are on scene; in the ALS portion of this case, not only ALS management will be reviewed but also BLS-assist of the ALS providers will be considered. Once these general cardiac arrest cases are complete, we will take a break. and then return with additional cases, reviewing traumatic cardiac arrest, overdose-related cardiac arrest, cardiac arrest in the pregnant patient, etc.

Presenter:  William Brady, MD

Presenter Biography:  Dr. William J. Brady is a Professor of Emergency Medicine, Cardiovascular Medicine, and Nursing at the University of Virginia, as well as being the Vice Chair for Faculty Development in the Department of Emergency Medicine, and has been awarded the University's prestigious David A. Harrison Distinguished Educator Award and All-University Teaching Award. In addition to his positions at UVA, Dr. Brady is the the Medical Director for Albemarle County Fire Rescue. // Lucian Mirra has two decades of experience as an EMS provider, leader, and educator. He has served as a firefighter/paramedic, EMS supervisor, emergency management coordinator, training officer, and paramedic program director. He has presented at numerous conferences including EMS World Expo and the International Association of Emergency Managers Conference, and has authored several textbook chapters and journal articles. He holds a master’s degree in education and is currently a doctoral candidate in education at the University of Virginia. He currently serves as the EMS Coordinator for Albemarle County Fire Rescue and is a life member of the Western Albemarle Rescue Squad.

MCS Education For EMS And First Responders

This course is designed to identify MCS patients and understand how to manage them in the event of an emergency.

Presenter:  Mindy Seigh

Presenter Biography:  Mindy Seigh, BSN, RN, CCTC, VAD-C, Senior Heart Transplant/VAD Coordinator at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital

Six Tips To Guide The New Fire Officers

As an officer you'll make critical decisions on training, safety, personnel, and on-scene operations. Join me as we share six invaluable tips for aspiring officers and current officers alike. In this presentation we will review a series of particular tips on how to be the best officer possible. This comprehensive training will discuss aspects on the importance of various topics such as utilizing your resources, mental health in the fire service, the importance of professionalism as an officer, and more. You will walk away with a better understanding of the multifaceted parts of being a fire officer. Let's ignite our potential and make a difference.

Presenter: Tom Marchiano

Presenter Biography: Tom Marchiano has been in the fire service since 2004. Over the years Tom has held the positions of Lieutenant, Captain, Assistant Chief, and currently serves as Chief of Department. Fueled by his passion for training, Tom obtained National Fire Instructor certification from the New York State Fire Academy. In 2020 he became a contributor for The Firehouse Tribune, writing articles for the website and hosting the website's podcast. In 2021 he joined the Technical Rescue team in Orange County NY. With a passion for leadership, Tom created a presentation for new and aspiring fire officers which he presents at conferences as well as virtually. In addition to his fire service experience, Tom has been a 911 dispatcher for 15 years. Tom continues to follow his passion for training and uses his skills and experiences to assist first responders in becoming the best version of themselves on and off duty.

When You Come To A Fork In The Road ... Take It! How To Navigate The Minefield Of Ethical Decision Making

This program will explore how company officers can approach decisions that pose ethical challenges. Real world scenarios will be used to highlight the issues that company officers will encounter. The program will provide participants with actionable steps they can follow that will help them, and their organization, survive potential ethical disasters and in the best case scenario, avoid them from the outset. Students will be challenged to consider how they would handle situations presented during the program.

Presenter:  Matthew Tobia

​Presenter Biography:  Matthew Tobia is the Fire Chief with the City of Harrisonburg (VA) Fire Department and is a 35- year student of emergency services. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Maryland Baltimore County and is a graduate of the Executive Fire Officer program at the National Fire Academy. Matt has served as a member of the Editorial Board for Fire-Rescue Magazine and has authored over 120 articles. He is also the former chair of the IAFC’s Safety, Health and Survival Section, holds the Chief Fire Officer credential and is a member of the Institute of Fire Engineers. Prior to Harrisonburg, Chief Tobia spent 23 years with the Anne Arundel County (MD) Fire Department and four years with Loudoun County (VA) Fire Rescue. Matt began volunteering in south central Pennsylvania in 1987 and is active with the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) and the Mid Atlantic Burn Camp for Children.

A Rational Approach To Cardiac Arrest Management

We will discuss a rational approach to cardiac arrest management, ranging from appropriate pre-arrival therapy to BLS and ALS interventions. The most recent literature, coupled with appropriate expert society guideline references, will be used to suggest a rational strategy to cardiac arrest resuscitation. We will challenge, when appropriate, the existing dogma of resuscitation.

Name of Presenter(s):  Lucian Mirra & Dr. William Brady

Presenter(s) Biography:  Lucian Mirra has two decades of experience as an EMS provider, leader, and educator. He has served as a firefighter/paramedic, EMS supervisor, emergency management coordinator, training officer, and paramedic program director. He has presented at numerous conferences including EMS World Expo and the International Association of Emergency Managers Conference, and has authored several textbook chapters and journal articles. He holds a master’s degree in education and is currently a doctoral candidate in education at the University of Virginia. He currently serves as the EMS Coordinator for Albemarle County Fire Rescue and is a life member of the Western Albemarle Rescue Squad.

Dr. William J. Brady is a Professor of Emergency Medicine, Cardiovascular Medicine, and Nursing at the University of Virginia, as well as being the Vice Chair for Faculty Development in the Department of Emergency Medicine, and has been awarded the University's prestigious David A. Harrison Distinguished Educator Award and All-University Teaching Award. In addition to his positions at UVA, Dr. Brady is the the Medical Director for Albemarle County Fire Rescue.

Crew Resource Management Awareness Course

This VFIS Program on Crew Resource Management (CRM) Awareness reviews the basics principles and concepts of CRM such as decision making, human aspects (Humanware), open communication, shared understand, improved situational awareness, organizational culture, complacency, how to develop a learning culture, improved task allocation, self-reflection and implantation guidance.  Remember "If We Change Nothing, Nothing Will Change" This program is also designed for the participant to start developing a mental tool kit  for use when human error and sever conditions on scene or response can have devastating outcomes.

Presenter:  Anthony “Jake” E. Hoover

Presenter Biography:  Anthony “Jake” E. Hoover is an Education Specialist for VFIS Education and Training, a subsidiary of Glatfelter Insurance Group. His responsibilities include providing education and training through a multitude of programs to help reduce risk and promote safety for fire, rescue, and EMS agencies across the United States. Since 1986, Jake has gained extensive experience in fire, rescue, emergency medical services, and technical rescue. Jake currently serves as part-time battalion chief for York Area United Fire and Rescue in York, Pennsylvania. He is a retired captain from Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service in Maryland. Prior to that he worked at York Hospital as a senior paramedic coordinating 2 medic units, overseeing an AED Program, and served as a tactical EMS paramedic. He is a life member with Hanover Area Fire and Rescue Services where he had work prior to joining York Hospital Medic 97 but also volunteered since 1989. Jake has served in many ranks within the fire department including as a chief officer and the assistant to the fire commissioner. He has participated, pioneered, and help develop a technical rescue team with over 20 years of experience. He graduated from St. Joseph’s Paramedic Institute, has an associate’s degree from Harrisburg Area Community College, and bachelor’s degree from Liberty University. He has an extensive teaching background including Harrisburg Area Community College, PA Department of Health, Wellspan Health, and many years in emergency services

Engine Company Operations And Victims: A Real Life Hat Dance

This presentation will dive into information from the Firefighter Rescue Survey and Underwriters Laboratories study to demonstrate methods of engine operations to ensure victim survivability in a fire event. The course will discuss the importance of engine company efficiency and skill to ensure victims stand a chance. The course will use statistics as well as real world knowledge to leave the student better prepared for a save on the fireground.

Presenter:  Jonah Smith

Presenter Biography:  Jonah Smith grew up in Richmond, VA where his exposure to the fire service began in the Church Hill area of the RVA with some of the best firefighters in the city. Jonah attended the University of South Carolina for both a Bachelors and Masters and started with the Columbia Fire Department in 2003. After a few years, Jonah pursued a career with the Charlotte, NC Fire Department where he began in 2005. He is currently the Captain on Engine 20 in the city’s south side. Additionally, since the day he received his certifications in 2003, he has volunteered with departments including the Lexington County FD and Columbia Fire Department. Currently he serves as an Assistant Chief at the Pleasant Valley Fire Department in South Carolina. Jonah is a 10 time FDIC instructor and has presented at numerous conferences to include: Firehouse Expo, Fire Rescue International, South Carolina Fire Rescue, and the South Atlantic Fire Rescue Expo.

Engine OIC- Operating In The Gray

A discussion about the "standard" things that all Engine Bosses should be considering, as well as the absolutely non-standard things that make up a day on the line, those scenarios that are in the gray. Because unfortunately, not every incident is made up of black and white decisions, not every day gives you simple solutions, but every day the goal is to get it right. In your role on an Engine Company, the backbone of the fire service, you have to juggle multiple priorities, make decisions of high consequence, in a time compressed environment, with little room for things to go wrong.  We will discuss how set ourselves up to be successful when we operate in the "gray", the calls that aren't in any manual, SOP, or SOG (the black and white). From problem-solving processes and leadership traits to initial tactical planning and play execution, this course is engaging and generates discussion and "outside of the box" thought processes.

Presenter:  Chris Brown

Presenter Biography:  Over 35 years in the fire service. Joined Brandy Station VFD (Culpeper County) as a Junior Firefighter at age 16 and is still a life member. Served several positions there to include over 10 years as Fire Chief. Hired by Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department in 1995. 29 years of service (FCFRD). Promoted to Lt. (R426) in 2002. Promoted to Captain in 2012 and was assigned to E438. 22 years as a company officer in the FCFRD, 18 at Co. 26, which is my current assignment. Has served on numerous committees, workgroups, and training programs to include the “Riding the Seat” program and the LDI Strategy and Tactics Class (2023). I believe in mentoring and passing along information that I have gained over the years, some through training and experience, and some (most) by learning from my mistakes along the way. Passionate for the job and getting a little better every day.

High-Performance Leadership

Being a successful leader at any level of the fire service is very complex and extraordinary. The leaders who prove consistently successful are born differently; they continually identify and refine their styles based on the requirements of the people who work for them and the organization they lead.  Based on the book Creating and Leading High-Performance Organizations, this class will provide you with proven fundamental life strategies to help you succeed as a fire service leader. 

Presenter:  Cecil V. "Buddy" Martinette Jr. 

Presenter Biography:  Cecil V. “Buddy” Martinette Jr. owns PB/T Consulting, is a former Chief Executive Officer, and is a founding member of Spec Rescue International, a specialized rescue training and consultation company headquartered in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Before this position, Buddy served in the public sector as Chief of the Wilmington Fire Department in Wilmington, North Carolina (retired); Assistant County Administrator in Hanover County, Virginia; and Chief of the Lynchburg Fire and EMS Department in Lynchburg, Virginia. Buddy has written numerous articles for the fire service and frequently lectures on organizational leadership and specialized rescue operations to public safety, military, industrial, and law enforcement organizations. Buddy is the author of the first, second, and third editions of the Jones & Bartlett book Trench Rescue: Principles and Practice to NFPA 1006 and 1670 and Fire Engineering Books Creating and Leading High-Performance Organizations. He was also awarded a design patent for his nut, bolt, and drill bit sizing tool called “Sizing Buddy.” Buddy has a Bachelor of Science in fire administration from Hampton University and a master’s in public administration from Troy State University. In addition, he is a graduate of the National Fire Academy Executive Fire Officer Program, where he received the Outstanding Research Award in leadership. He has also received the designation of Chief Fire Officer by the Commission on Chief Fire Officer Designation.

In The Hot Seat

The purpose of this course is to give each attendee the opportunity to learn from their experience and the experience of others, including the instructor. Each student experiences being first-in at multiple structure fires in multiple types of buildings. The challenge for students is to apply their understanding of building construction, fire behavior, and their agency resourcing, to formulate and communicate an incident action plan. Using a discussion-based approach to teach, the instructor then engages students in a discussion that dissects the fire problem to identify the cues and patterns available, consider the relative value of the information, and use that to improve the accuracy of the next decision at the next fire. The students also learn what to look for when assessing whether the plan is working (are we winning) or the danger signs that a plan is ineffective (are we losing). Because the students are actively engaged in the discussion, they learn from their own experience as well as the experience of others including the instructor.

Presenter:  Phil A Jose

Presenter Biography:  Phillip Jose, Deputy Chief, (Ret.), 30 years Seattle Fire. Chair SOG-PIA committees. Chief of the Year 2013. FDIC Instructor 20 years. 2008 Tom Brennan Award, Author Instructor 1 for Fire and Emergency Services, Air Management for the Fire Service, FE Handbook FF 1 and 2 ; FE “Bread and Butter” video, SCBA.

Introduction To Mechanical Ventilation

Participants will be introduced to the use of Mechanical Ventilators as it applies to EMS scene response and inter-facility transports. Much of our time will be spent discussing BVM vs Mechanical Ventilator use and Modes of ventilation with advantages and disadvantages of each mode discussed. Settings/adjustments and troubleshooting alarms will also be discussed. Participants will be given hands on time using the Zoll AEV ventilator in various scenarios.

Presenter:  Shawn Fields 

Presenter Biography: 14 years of experience in Fire & EMS. Currently serve as Lieutenant with Chesterfield Fire & EMS. Function as Lead ALS Field Training Officer and adjunct instructor for both EMS and Fire Training within the department. Previously presented at EMS Symposium and Central VA EMS Expo. Certified as VA EMT-P, NREMT-P, FP-C and CCEMT.

Leading With Drones In The Fire Service

This class will cover the different ways drones can be used in the fire service. We will show how this technology can be used on big box fires to looking for lost kids.

Presenter:  Wayne Bailey

Presenter Biography:  Mr. Wayne Bailey has been volunteering and working in public safety since 1975. In 1995 he started employment with the North Carolina Office of State Fire Marshal (OSFM). During his time at OSFM, he served as a Certification Specialist and Deputy Director over training, certification, accreditation, and ISO Inspections for the state. In 2016, Mr. Bailey started flying uncrewed aircraft. In 2018 he was credentialed as an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot in Charge. Also, he is Internationally accredited by IFSAC and ProBoard as an NFPA 1041 Level III Instructor, Accredited Chief Training Officer by the Center for Public Safety Excellence, and Executive Fire Officer Graduate from the National Fire Academy. After retiring from OSFM in 2019, Mr. Bailey went to work for Blue Ridge Mountain Drones as their Chief Pilot. Mr. Bailey stays busy teaching the FAA part 107 rules to primarily public safety and high school educators. He volunteers his time as an FAA Safety Team Member (FAAST) and is a designated Drone Pro.

Officer Development, With A Side Of Ketchup

Spotsylvania Fire/Rescue developed an Officer Development Program in 2019. This program was a multi-phased approach to create a strong foundation for acting officers, to help develop newly promoted officers, to provide continuing education to all officers, and to ensure that current company officers are brought up to speed with the training provided to new officers. The program is focused on three key officer concepts, administrative duties, leadership skills, and operational competencies. A key focus of the program was to build consistency among the knowledge and actions of the company officers within our system. The program has been consistently delivered since the inception and is continuing to evolve. The core group of three who developed the program have now delivered 18 independent sessions. This core group who have continued to refine the program would like to present on the background of the program (the why and how), the challenges faced with the development and deployment, keys to our success with the program, and predicted changes for the future deployments of the program.

Presenter(s):  Paul Hemming, Chris Lonzo, Carl Roberts

The 5-Tool Firefighter: Five Key Attributes To A Well-Rounded Firefighter

It has long been said firefighters are a special breed of athletes. In fact, firefighting and sports go hand in hand. Instead of training for world championships or gold medals, firefighters are training each and every day to protect life and property. So, what separates good firefighters from exceptional well-rounded firefighters? Simply five key attributes obtained and implemented through my time in the fire service and as an athlete. These five key attributes (leadership, firematics, situational awareness, fitness for duty & adaptability) are a MUST for all firefighters to add to their arsenal of weapons, along with takeaways to implement them into their development ranging from the probationary firefighter all the way up to the seasoned veteran. Armed with research, personal stories and data driven facts, this presentation will address the attributes of what is considered a well-rounded 5-Tool Firefighter. Based on the book, "The 5-Tool Firefighter".

Presenter:  Nicholas Higgins

Presenter Biography Nicholas J. Higgins is a lieutenant in charge of training for Piscataway Fire District #2 in New Jersey. With over 20 years of service, Nick is a NJ State Fire Instructor, an advocate for the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation and an international speaker. Nick has shared his message to the fire service speaking on many firefighting related topics at many state and national conferences such as FIREHOUSE and has been a guest on many fire service podcasts such as "S-Alarm Task Force", "Firefighter Success" & "Crew1stCulture". In addition, Nick is the founder of The Firehouse Tribune, co-host of "Station Talk Podcast" and the host of "The 5-Tool Firefighter Podcast". Nick has authored two books, "The 5-Tool Firefighter" and "The 5- Tool Firefighter Tactical Workbook" and is published in Firefighter Nation.

The Art Of Effective Communication

This session is designed to provide helpful instructions on how to communicate effectively. As fire rescuers, it is crucial to be clear and concise in our communications. Within this session, the importance of clarity in both written and oral communication is emphasized with examples of common errors. Additionally, there is a focus on learning how to improve our communication with some short learning activities. 

A Rational Approach To Cardiac Arrest Management

We will discuss a rational approach to cardiac arrest management, ranging from appropriate pre-arrival therapy to BLS and ALS interventions. The most recent literature, coupled with appropriate expert society guideline references, will be used to suggest a rational strategy to cardiac arrest resuscitation. We will challenge, when appropriate, the existing dogma of resuscitation.

Name of Presenter(s):  Lucian Mirra & Dr. William Brady

Presenter(s) Biography:  Lucian Mirra has two decades of experience as an EMS provider, leader, and educator. He has served as a firefighter/paramedic, EMS supervisor, emergency management coordinator, training officer, and paramedic program director. He has presented at numerous conferences including EMS World Expo and the International Association of Emergency Managers Conference, and has authored several textbook chapters and journal articles. He holds a master’s degree in education and is currently a doctoral candidate in education at the University of Virginia. He currently serves as the EMS Coordinator for Albemarle County Fire Rescue and is a life member of the Western Albemarle Rescue Squad.

​Dr. William J. Brady is a Professor of Emergency Medicine, Cardiovascular Medicine, and Nursing at the University of Virginia, as well as being the Vice Chair for Faculty Development in the Department of Emergency Medicine, and has been awarded the University's prestigious David A. Harrison Distinguished Educator Award and All-University Teaching Award. In addition to his positions at UVA, Dr. Brady is the the Medical Director for Albemarle County Fire Rescue.

Effective Company Training: Challenging All Levels

This lecture provides insight into the actual steps taken to change the culture and mindset towards training within a fire department. The instructor ties lessons found in military leadership to combat training and motivational challenges. This course also provides the design component for company level drills that can easily be expanded across an entire department or contracted to a one-on-one level.

Leading With Drones In The Fire Service

This class will cover the different ways drones can be used in the fire service. We will show how this technology can be used on big box fires to looking for lost kids.

Presenter:  Wayne Bailey

Presenter Biography:  Mr. Wayne Bailey has been volunteering and working in public safety since 1975. In 1995 he started employment with the North Carolina Office of State Fire Marshal (OSFM). During his time at OSFM, he served as a Certification Specialist and Deputy Director over training, certification, accreditation, and ISO Inspections for the state. In 2016, Mr. Bailey started flying uncrewed aircraft. In 2018 he was credentialed as an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot in Charge. Also, he is Internationally accredited by IFSAC and ProBoard as an NFPA 1041 Level III Instructor, Accredited Chief Training Officer by the Center for Public Safety Excellence, and Executive Fire Officer Graduate from the National Fire Academy. After retiring from OSFM in 2019, Mr. Bailey went to work for Blue Ridge Mountain Drones as their Chief Pilot. Mr. Bailey stays busy teaching the FAA part 107 rules to primarily public safety and high school educators. He volunteers his time as an FAA Safety Team Member (FAAST) and is a designated Drone Pro.

Officer Development, With A Side Of Ketchup

Spotsylvania Fire/Rescue developed an Officer Development Program in 2019. This program was a multi-phased approach to create a strong foundation for acting officers, to help develop newly promoted officers, to provide continuing education to all officers, and to ensure that current company officers are brought up to speed with the training provided to new officers. The program is focused on three key officer concepts, administrative duties, leadership skills, and operational competencies. A key focus of the program was to build consistency among the knowledge and actions of the company officers within our system. The program has been consistently delivered since the inception and is continuing to evolve. The core group of three who developed the program have now delivered 18 independent sessions. This core group who have continued to refine the program would like to present on the background of the program (the why and how), the challenges faced with the development and deployment, keys to our success with the program, and predicted changes for the future deployments of the program.

Presenter(s):  Paul Hemming, Chris Lonzo, Carl Roberts

The Art Of Effective Communication

This session is designed to provide helpful instructions on how to communicate effectively. As fire rescuers, it is crucial to be clear and concise in our communications. Within this session, the importance of clarity in both written and oral communication is emphasized with examples of common errors. Additionally, there is a focus on learning how to improve our communication with some short learning activities.  

Clearing The Air: A Breath Of Fresh Knowledge For Firefighting Engine Companies!

In this lecture, firefighters will learn the importance of air monitoring in hazardous situations and how to effectively use monitoring equipment to ensure their safety and the safety of others. Topics covered include identifying potential air contaminants, understanding air monitoring technology, interpreting monitoring results, and making informed decisions in high-pressure situations. Get ready to clear the air and breathe easier with this essential training to make hazardous materials air monitoring easy for engine companies!

Crisis De-Escalation And Self Defense Tactics

Safety has always been Emergency Medical Services (EMS) top priority. We strive for safety  for our providers and safety for our patients or bystanders around us. Crisis intervention is not a new concept, but often, it takes more of a focus on Officers over EMS providers. With knowledge and experience in crisis intervention, mental health care, police training, and self-defense tactics, this presentation was honed and developed.   We want to train and teach EMS providers how to handle those in a crisis properly. Using a simplistic way of memorization so our students can easily identify and utilize what is being taught. As well as taking the time to dive into deep learning mechanics like the "flight or fight" response . Focusing on stigma, data utilization and scenario-based learning to make both the providers and community safer. It doesn't just stop there. Attached to the crisis de-escalation training is also a unique and curated self-defense tactic for medical providers to keep themselves safe without injuring their patients.

From Tradition To Transformation

This presentation involves a discussion on charting a new course of adaptability and resiliency for the American Fire Service by recognizing the significant internal and external changes that are and will impact our industry as we know it today. This presentation will review the history of America's fire service while recognizing the significant changes that have occurred over the past 100 years.  The presentation will also offer an exploration of the history and the significant future changes that will shape the next fire service generation. This presentation aims to provide participants with a deeper understanding of the not-so-distant future fire service, and our ability to adapt and remain resilient. Through interactive discussions, informative presentations, and engaging multimedia content, participants will gain insights into milestones, advancements, and emerging challenges on the horizon. It will also explore the social and cultural factors that influence the community and local leaders perception of the fire service.   The course is primarily a forward-looking perspective, focusing on the significant changes that will shape the next generation of America's fire service. Participants will explore trends, technologies, and potential strategies that will enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of emergency and non-emergency operations. Examples of personal experience from fire departments and organizations I served in or was affiliated with will be highlighted during the presentation. By the end of the course, participants will have a understanding of the historical evolution of America's fire service and the future changes that will shape its development. They will gain insights into next level challenges and opportunities facing our industry and, the motivation to participate in develop strategies and solutions to address a safer, adaptable, and resilient fire service for the next generation.

Leveraging Social Media Workshop For Retention, Recruitment And Education

If you are expecting this to be your normal social media "how-to" class, you will be pleasantly surprised to learn that this is nothing at all like normal. This session is very hands-on with a great deal of audience participation and small group work.  Effectively engaging your target audiences on social media to recruit, retain or educate them requires strategic thought to conduct effectively. This class will take you through the process of creating a strategic plan for social media and provide you with the tools to take back to your department to enhance and improve your social media presence.

Leveraging Your Why: The Power Of Purpose Driven Leadership

In this course, students will gain insight into the psychology behind sharing our "why" as leaders. We will discuss how providing others insight into the reasons behind our leadership decisions can inspire and motivate employees, increase engagement and commitment, and ultimately drive organizational success in ways that simply communicating "what" needs to be done cannot. This increased understanding can foster a sense of engagement and commitment among employees, leading to greater job satisfaction and productivity. Additionally, communicating the "why" can help employees understand the broader impact of their work and how it fits into the organization's overall strategy, which can increase their sense of ownership and accountability.

Presenter(s):  Jonah Smith & Benjamin Martin

Presenter(s) Biography:  Jonah Smith grew up in Richmond, VA where his exposure to the fire service began in the Church Hill area of the RVA with some of the best firefighters in the city. Jonah attended the University of South Carolina for both a Bachelors and Masters and started with the Columbia Fire Department in 2003. After a few years, Jonah pursued a career with the Charlotte, NC Fire Department where he began in 2005. He is currently a Battalion Chief of the 8th Battalion. Additionally, since the day he received his certifications in 2003, he has volunteered with departments including the Lexington County FD and Columbia Fire Department. Currently he serves as a firefighter in the Indian Land FD in South Carolina. Jonah is a 10 time FDIC instructor and has presented at numerous conferences to include: Firehouse Expo, Fire Rescue International, South Carolina Fire Rescue, and the South Atlantic Fire Rescue Expo.

Benjamin Martin has over seventeen years in public safety and currently serves as a Captain with a large metro fire department in Virginia. His leadership articles have appeared in publications including Fire Engineering, FireRescue, Fire Department Training Network (FDTN), International Society of Fire Service Instructors (ISFSI), FirefighterToolbox, and FirefighterWife. He is the founder of EmbraceTheResistance.com which features leadership training for existing and aspiring leaders.

Peer Support Or Chaplains? YES!

Unfortunately some departments are dropping their chaplain programs because they need peer support. This course will go over why chaplains should be a part of your peer support team. It will also cover peer support basic skills like active listening and assessment skills.

Sickle Cell Care - An Evidence-Based Approach

There is increasing evidence regarding Sickle Cell Disease and proper treatment. In June 2018, the National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines 2.1 added Sickle Cell as a stand-alone protocol to address the changes in management. Does your system know about the changes? Should your system consider a Sickle Cell Protocol? In this presentation, we will review the pathophysiology of Sickle Cell Disease, discuss the evidence-based approach and best practice. You will also receive access to a training scenario and grading rubric that you can take back to your crew for practice.

Small Fire Depts - Tips For Winning Big On The Fireground

Many communities in America today are covered by fire departments that have two fire stations or less.  These small fire departments are essential for maintaining public safety in their community. While smaller in size and resources compared to larger metropolitan fire departments, these organizations can still be highly effective by focusing on key areas of expertise and implementing the correct fireground strategy & tactics. To meet these challenges firefighters must adequately identify problems and develop an action plan to address the problems.  It doesn't matter how many resources are responding, the fireground is demanding and unforgiving which requires quick thinking, rapid decision making, and swift action. This class is designed to provide the student with solutions and skills to be technically and tactically proficient to win and meet the needs of today's dynamic fireground.

Street Smart Fire Attack

It has been said "The fire goes as the first line goes." Nothing could be more true, and nothing is more integral to fixing the problem than a successful fire attack. What is a successful fire attack? What makes it "go"? Where does it need to "go"? How should it "go"? What happens when it doesn't "go"? Can it be done with short staffing? The fire service has been afforded a tremendous luxury with the availability of scientific data that can be combined with past practice and the hand you have been dealt to create a successful fire attack. The course will pair available data from UL/NIST studies, textbooks, street experience and trial and error to break down the components of a successful fire attack and provide an understanding of the "why" behind the "how". The course will also provide a flow chart/decision making process students can use to mold the concepts to their individual departments operational make up to successfully execute the required steps in performing the attack at an incident.

The Ace In The Hole: The Squad Company

A common theme is today's fire service is "Doing More with Less" With this being said, fire departments are being forced maximize response efforts with minimal resources. The modern-day rescue pumper or Squad Company allows for an existing engine company into an elite unit to wear multiple hats on the fireground. This allows them to fulfill engine, truck and special operations assignments based on the needs of the incident commander. This class will dive operational roles and responsibilities, planning needs and training efforts needed to implement a successful squad concept within your department. We will also discuss the tactical mindset of the SOC firefighter and how to use that as force multiplier on the emergency scene.

The Virginia Ventilation Trial

Research shows that often, EMS providers have trouble ventilating patients. In this eye-opening, In this eye-opening session, Bob lays out the incredible findings of a 2022 high-fidelity simulations and high-performance ventilation workshops. During 2022, Bob collected data from over 35 classes with over 600 BLS and ALS Providers. Students performed ventilations on high-fidelity simulators, monitoring rate, volume, and pressures. Bob gathered baseline data, and then used state-of-the art feedback devices to show ways to improve ventilations and help students develop muscle memory. After the training, marked skill improvements were recorded in all measured parameters. Come see some sweeping recommendations to the "P" back in CPR and deliver better ventilation performance in all your patients.

Presenter:  Bob Page

Presenter Biography:  Bob Page is an internationally known speaker, instructor, author and paramedic. He is recognized for his energetic, humorous and motivational style. Bob takes ordinarily dry and hard to teach topics and transforms them into a fun, learning experience. He holds a Master’s degree in Adult Education. Bob has been an instructor for almost 4 decades teaching a variety of adult education courses from customer service to advanced medical care. He is a Certified Healthcare Simulation Educator and Operations Specialist. He has presented over 4000 seminars worldwide. He was recognized by his peers in Missouri as Missouri’s “Most Creative Educator” in 2009 and was awarded the Legends That Walk Among us Award from NAEMSE is 2012.

Unplugged Round II: Perspectives On The Fire Service... Ask Anything - No Holds Barred!

This wildly interactive program is an opportunity to raise any issue in the fire service today and gain some perspective from two people who don't mind be held accountable to give straight answers - even when the answers are not popular!  Wear your favorite team jersey!

Presenter(s):  Matthew Tobia & Timothy McKay

Presenter(s) Biography:  A volunteer firefighter in his hometown of Butler, PA, Chief McKay continued his service after moving to Virginia by serving as the Fire Chief of the Farmville Fire Department and Fire Marshal for the Town of Farmville from 2000-2010. He is also a Life Member of the Prince Edward Volunteer Rescue Squad.  A 32-year veteran of the fire service, he chose to pursue his passion of fire and EMS as a career beginning his employment with Chesterfield County Fire and EMS in 2002. He has served in numerous operational assignments as well as holding multiple positions in the department’s Training and Education Unit. Tim also spent time as an operational battalion chief, the Director of EMS, and then as an assistant chief assigned as a shift commander. Currently he serves as the department’s Deputy Fire Chief.  He graduated from Hampden-Sydney College with a degree in political science and has earned a master's degree in public leadership from Virginia State University. Chief McKay is also a graduate of the National Fire Academy's Executive Fire Officer Program.

​Matthew Tobia is the Fire Chief with the City of Harrisonburg (VA) Fire Department and is a 35- year student of emergency services. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Maryland Baltimore County and is a graduate of the Executive Fire Officer program at the National Fire Academy. Matt has served as a member of the Editorial Board for Fire-Rescue Magazine and has authored over 120 articles. He is also the former chair of the IAFC’s Safety, Health and Survival Section, holds the Chief Fire Officer credential and is a member of the Institute of Fire Engineers. Prior to Harrisonburg, Chief Tobia spent 23 years with the Anne Arundel County (MD) Fire Department and four years with Loudoun County (VA) Fire Rescue. Matt began volunteering in south central Pennsylvania in 1987 and is active with the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) and the Mid Atlantic Burn Camp for Children.

Welcome To The Main Event! Medical Planning For Mass Gathering Events

Whether it is a sporting event, concert, high-profile speaker, or another large gathering event, EMS is increasingly faced with planning for and responding to large-scale gatherings. In this class, students will examine current best-practices in planning for these events, including looking at actual events such as the 2017 Unite the Right Rally in Charlottesville, and apply lessons learned to their own planning practices for these events.

Presenter:  Lucian Mirra

Presenter Biography:  Lucian Mirra has two decades of experience as an EMS provider, leader, and educator. He has served as a firefighter/paramedic, EMS supervisor, emergency management coordinator, training officer, and paramedic program director. He has presented at numerous conferences including EMS World Expo and the International Association of Emergency Managers Conference, and has authored several textbook chapters and journal articles. He holds a master’s degree in education and is currently a doctoral candidate in education at the University of Virginia. He currently serves as the EMS Coordinator for Albemarle County Fire Rescue and is a life member of the Western Albemarle Rescue Squad.

From Tradition To Transformation

This presentation involves a discussion on charting a new course of adaptability and resiliency for the American Fire Service by recognizing the significant internal and external changes that are and will impact our industry as we know it today. This presentation will review the history of America's fire service while recognizing the significant changes that have occurred over the past 100 years.  The presentation will also offer an exploration of the history and the significant future changes that will shape the next fire service generation. This presentation aims to provide participants with a deeper understanding of the not-so-distant future fire service, and our ability to adapt and remain resilient. Through interactive discussions, informative presentations, and engaging multimedia content, participants will gain insights into milestones, advancements, and emerging challenges on the horizon. It will also explore the social and cultural factors that influence the community and local leaders perception of the fire service.   The course is primarily a forward-looking perspective, focusing on the significant changes that will shape the next generation of America's fire service. Participants will explore trends, technologies, and potential strategies that will enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of emergency and non-emergency operations. Examples of personal experience from fire departments and organizations I served in or was affiliated with will be highlighted during the presentation. By the end of the course, participants will have a understanding of the historical evolution of America's fire service and the future changes that will shape its development. They will gain insights into next level challenges and opportunities facing our industry and, the motivation to participate in develop strategies and solutions to address a safer, adaptable, and resilient fire service for the next generation.

Leveraging Social Media Workshop For Retention, Recruitment And Education

If you are expecting this to be your normal social media "how-to" class, you will be pleasantly surprised to learn that this is nothing at all like normal. This session is very hands-on with a great deal of audience participation and small group work.  Effectively engaging your target audiences on social media to recruit, retain or educate them requires strategic thought to conduct effectively. This class will take you through the process of creating a strategic plan for social media and provide you with the tools to take back to your department to enhance and improve your social media presence.

Preparing For The Excited Delirium Patient

The low frequency and high acuity calls are the ones that providers feel the most unprepared for. Through a review of the pathophysiology of excited delirium and case-based learning, we will talk about best practice treatment. This class will discuss validated agitation scales to help determine treatment escalation. At the end, participants will walk away with a training scenario and grading rubric to take back to your crew for practice.

Small Fire Depts - Tips For Winning Big On The Fireground

Many communities in America today are covered by fire departments that have two fire stations or less.  These small fire departments are essential for maintaining public safety in their community. While smaller in size and resources compared to larger metropolitan fire departments, these organizations can still be highly effective by focusing on key areas of expertise and implementing the correct fireground strategy & tactics. To meet these challenges firefighters must adequately identify problems and develop an action plan to address the problems.  It doesn't matter how many resources are responding, the fireground is demanding and unforgiving which requires quick thinking, rapid decision making, and swift action. This class is designed to provide the student with solutions and skills to be technically and tactically proficient to win and meet the needs of today's dynamic fireground.

Street Smart Extrication

Vehicle extrication is a puzzle. But its not a normal puzzle; it's a puzzle with constantly changing rules. Manufacturers strive to make the best vehicles on the road so they can make the most sales. They design their vehicles to perform safely when involved in a collision. What they don't care about is the fire department and its ability to extricate someone from one of their vehicles. Extrication challenges facing today's crews have grown exponentially with new vehicle components and construction practices. This class will help dismantle those practices and show real-world ways to beat them, sometimes by using them to your advantage to get trapped occupants out in a timely manner. Learn maneuvers that can be used to extricate trapped civilians in a tested, timely manner.

Target Engaged! Increasing Student Engagement In The Emergency Services Classroom

Student engagement - it seems like a "buzzword" but what does it really mean? With EMS classrooms being among the most diverse educational settings, how do we ensure our students are engaged in the material? This course will first overview the important educational theories in student engagement and how they apply to the diverse EMS classroom. Case studies will then be used to engage participants in discussing best practices for handling common classroom challenges.

Presenter:  Lucian Mirra

Presenter Biography:  Lucian Mirra has two decades of experience as an EMS provider, leader, and educator. He has served as a firefighter/paramedic, EMS supervisor, emergency management coordinator, training officer, and paramedic program director. He has presented at numerous conferences including EMS World Expo and the International Association of Emergency Managers Conference, and has authored several textbook chapters and journal articles. He holds a master’s degree in education and is currently a doctoral candidate in education at the University of Virginia. He currently serves as the EMS Coordinator for Albemarle County Fire Rescue and is a life member of the Western Albemarle Rescue Squad.

TBI And ICP: The Pressure Is On!

Head injury management is rapidly changing on all fronts. This talk is designed to update the EMS provider on the latest controversies in the acute management of closed head injury. Ideas such as hyperventilation, use of capnography, BLS things that drive up the ICP, and more. This session is much, much more than the standard head injury lecture. New stuff is presented for all levels and you will leave with a clear understanding of ICP or one huge headache! (just kidding!)

Presenter:  Bob Page

Presenter Biography:  Bob Page is an internationally known speaker, instructor, author and paramedic. He is recognized for his energetic, humorous and motivational style. Bob takes ordinarily dry and hard to teach topics and transforms them into a fun, learning experience. He holds a Master’s degree in Adult Education. Bob has been an instructor for almost 4 decades teaching a variety of adult education courses from customer service to advanced medical care. He is a Certified Healthcare Simulation Educator and Operations Specialist. He has presented over 4000 seminars worldwide. He was recognized by his peers in Missouri as Missouri’s “Most Creative Educator” in 2009 and was awarded the Legends That Walk Among us Award from NAEMSE is 2012.

Unplugged Round II: Perspectives On The Fire Service... Ask Anything - No Holds Barred!

This wildly interactive program is an opportunity to raise any issue in the fire service today and gain some perspective from two people who don't mind be held accountable to give straight answers - even when the answers are not popular!  Wear your favorite team jersey!

Presenter(s):  Matthew Tobia & Timothy McKay

Presenter(s) Biography:  A volunteer firefighter in his hometown of Butler, PA, Chief McKay continued his service after moving to Virginia by serving as the Fire Chief of the Farmville Fire Department and Fire Marshal for the Town of Farmville from 2000-2010. He is also a Life Member of the Prince Edward Volunteer Rescue Squad.  A 32-year veteran of the fire service, he chose to pursue his passion of fire and EMS as a career beginning his employment with Chesterfield County Fire and EMS in 2002. He has served in numerous operational assignments as well as holding multiple positions in the department’s Training and Education Unit. Tim also spent time as an operational battalion chief, the Director of EMS, and then as an assistant chief assigned as a shift commander. Currently he serves as the department’s Deputy Fire Chief.  He graduated from Hampden-Sydney College with a degree in political science and has earned a master's degree in public leadership from Virginia State University. Chief McKay is also a graduate of the National Fire Academy's Executive Fire Officer Program.

​Matthew Tobia is the Fire Chief with the City of Harrisonburg (VA) Fire Department and is a 35- year student of emergency services. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Maryland Baltimore County and is a graduate of the Executive Fire Officer program at the National Fire Academy. Matt has served as a member of the Editorial Board for Fire-Rescue Magazine and has authored over 120 articles. He is also the former chair of the IAFC’s Safety, Health and Survival Section, holds the Chief Fire Officer credential and is a member of the Institute of Fire Engineers. Prior to Harrisonburg, Chief Tobia spent 23 years with the Anne Arundel County (MD) Fire Department and four years with Loudoun County (VA) Fire Rescue. Matt began volunteering in south central Pennsylvania in 1987 and is active with the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) and the Mid Atlantic Burn Camp for Children.

If We Can Do It, So Can You: Establishing A MIH/CP Program

Emergency Medicine is forever changing. As it grows and adapts so must our perception and understanding of where it is going. Community paramedicine is the future of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) with numerous organizations across the globe; it would seem to be in the best interest to present community medicine a little differently, with a focus on program development, evidence-based practices, data collection, and working within the means of your jurisdiction.  Our community paramedicine presentation hopes to teach others not just about a program but how to develop one, specifically for those jurisdictions that lack the funding of personnel to start one. With just one Paramedic, zero funding, and hard work, we created and developed our Community Crisis Co-Response Team. We want to share with the world how we did it, where we are now, and the difference we are making in our small city.

Box Alarm Bullets

In the fast-paced modern environment, companies need to be ready to go to work with an athletes mentality for precision and accuracy. Incident Size-Up, Fire-Ground Management and Strategy/Tactics are some of the most critical pieces to the pie when it comes to serving up a successful fire. However, these are often under-drilled and un-discussed topics on training calendar. Join us as we discuss practices and methods for bringing all these important pieces together to win the day. This class provide a plethora of tactical tips for the firefighter, company and command officer to help manage fire-ground madness and package it into a well-rounded and professional box alarm.

Common Pitfalls In Patient Care Documentation

You have heard the saying – “if you didn’t write it, you didn’t do it.” EMS personnel need a systematic way to document their patient encounters. The goals of this session are to list and describe common errors and omissions found in patient care documentation, better understand the resources available to help mitigate those errors and omissions and apply the knowledge gained from today’s session and incorporate it into your everyday practice of patient care reporting (PCR) completion. This is a 2-hour session, all lecture.

Challenges Transporting Pediatric And Bariatric Patients

No matter the size of our patients we must be ready for the unique challenges they present for transport. Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of safe ambulance transport practices for pediatric and bariatric patients. The focus will be proper securement and safe ambulance transport for pediatric and bariatric patients including best practices. We will delve into various factors that contribute to ensuring the safety and well-being of pediatric and bariatrics patients during transport. This is a 2-hour session, all lecture.

EMS And Public Health

Doctors put stethoscopes on patients: EMS places stethoscopes on patients in their homes: but public health puts a stethoscope on populations. The 2021 NEMSES education standards now require all programs to discuss Public Health. However, there is very little, if any, material in the textbooks. This presentation is from a provider with over 15 years of EMS experience and has a MPH. We will discuss how EMS is part of Public Health. Educators, you are welcome to use the presentation in your programs.

Pilot Or Paramedic? Crew Resource Management In Fire/EMS

Have you ever been in a situation where things started going wrong on a call and you didn't know how to speak up? Perhaps you were the new firefighter or EMT and saw a mistake occurring and were silenced by a more senior provider. Crew resource management (CRM) is a concept founded in the aviation world that ensures the entire crew has the ability to stop a dangerous event from occurring. This presentation will review the history of CRM, its application in the fire/EMS service, and work through real-life examples of when it can be (or should have been) used.

Portable Respiratory Monitoring

EMS providers a primarily taught subjective assessment techniques for patient with respiratory problems. This includes basic observation of signs and symptoms that can often be confusing and misleading. Then providers are asked to interview patients for OPQRST-SAMPLE when they are having a hard enough time just breathing. Add to the fact that most protocols are written having therapy based on chief complaints and sometimes without sound clinical judgement. Studies have suggested this approach can be dangerous. Technological advancements have produced respiratory monitors that are much smaller in size and a fraction of the cost of our high end monitor/defibrillator with Pulse Ox and Capnography. In this presentation, Bob introduces the audience to the concepts of the big three of respiratory monitoring: Pulse oximetry, capnography, and Co-Oximetry (CO monitoring), describing their use as objective patient assessment tools, and discusses through case reviews, the impact they can have on clinical decision making for all levels of providers.

RIT In The Real World

With the declining manpower and increased need to address critical fireground activities as expeditiously as possible, dedicating a RIT on each alarm has become a lower priority of most Incident Commanders. It is still, nevertheless, a critical component to the safety of all operating members on the fireground. When coupled with the need to work harder due to responding with less staffing, being able to work without duplication of effort will lead to the greatest benefit. This class discuss the history of RIT, what it has become in most localities, facts and figures concerning RIT operations, discuss operations of past RIT operations, and ultimately will introduce processes and techniques that can be used to streamline the RIT operations in the future.

Using Storytelling To Impact Perceptions In Recruitment

Jenny Bragiel, Volunteer Program Manager with the Loudoun County Combined Fire and Rescue System and Founder of Bragiel Global Consulting, speaks about creating positive perceptions of your organization by telling your organizational story. During her presentation, she challenges the audience’s understanding of perception and pushes attendees to think about their organizational messaging in a new way, in order to help improve recruitment efforts and reach their recruitment goals. During this session attendees will also discuss working recruitment booths and developing elevator pitches based on their organizational story.

Commanding & Controlling The Volunteer Fireground

It is no secret that utilizing the incident command system and at an incident is critical to the success of the incident and for the safety of personnel operating on the fireground. There are many volunteer fire departments that do command and control well. Those departments typically have the personnel to fill all the fireground functions. But what about the smaller volunteer or rural departments? What about your department? How is command and control on the fireground achieved when there are other critical functions to be done? This class is designed to provide the student with skills and solutions for building a command structure that provides fireground control along with establishing roles and responsibilities for volunteer officers & firefighters.