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PLEASE READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BELOW BEFORE REGISTERING
GO TO WWW.VFCA.US FOR COMPLETE COURSE INFORMATION
The Virginia Fire Chiefs Association is excited to hold the 2026 Virginia Fire Rescue Conference in Virginia Beach, Virginia from February 16-21, 2026.
Welcome to the Member365 Registration Page for the VFRC. Please see below for guidance on how to register for the conference:
Step #1 - Click the "Register Now" Button on this page.
Step #2 - To begin the process of registration enter your email address if requested (VFCA Members logged in will automatically skip this step)
Step #3 - Please choose the registration you would like (Full Conference, Weekday Pass, Weekend Pass)
Step #4 - Confirm your ticket choice.
Step #5 - Choose "Select Ticket Options" to register for courses.
**IF YOU DO NOT COMPLETE THIS STEP YOU ARE NOT GUARANTEED A SPOT IN A COURSE.**
Click "Save" to save your course selections. Click "Continue".
Step #6 - Complete the requested information under the Form Registration. Click "Continue"
Step #7 - Review your workshop selections and select your payment method and click "Process Payment". Attendees paying by check will receive an invoice with instructions for payment. Attendees paying by credit card will be directed to the secure payment screen and after the payment is processed, will receive a copy of the paid invoice.
VFCA Member Registration - VFCA Members will need to login with their VFCA credentials through the Member365 website. Using your VFCA login information will allow you to access the reduced conference rates.
VFCA Lapsed/Non-Members - Members whose membership has expired or non-members are encouraged to go to https://vfca.us/join/ and renew their membership. Once your membership has renewed you will be able to access the registration page and receive the reduced conference rates.
For issues related to the Member365 registration process please email monarchmeetings@gmail.com.
For issues related to VFCA Membership, please email dfacka@vfca.us.
We look forward to seeing you at the conference!
2026 Virginia Fire & Rescue Conference - Attendee Registration
- February 16 - 21, 2026
-
1000 19th Street
Virginia Beach, Virginia
United States
23451
Event Workshops
- February 16, 2026
- February 17, 2026
- February 18, 2026
- February 19, 2026
- February 20, 2026
- February 21, 2026
The Water Can: Know Your Capabilities, Know Your Limitations (HOT COURSE)
February 16, 2026 08:00 - 12:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:11
Master one of the fireground’s most overlooked yet lifesaving tools—the 2½-gallon water extinguisher. Students will learn filling, pressurization, and custom modifications to make the ‘Can’ more effective. Evolutions include door control, searching with the Can, and direct fire attack. The class concludes with live-fire exercises where you’ll witness the Can’s impact in pre-flashover conditions.
Details:
Lead Instructor: Brian Disharoon
Max Class Size: 24
Required PPE: Full structural PPE (helmet, hood, gloves, boots, coat, pants) plus water bottle, shower items, towel, and change of clothes.
Human Performance (HOT COURSE)
February 16, 2026 08:00 - 14:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:13
Firefighting is as much mental as it is physical. This course explores human performance factors that influence decision-making, stress management, and endurance on the fireground. Students will participate in interactive modules that apply cognitive and physical performance concepts to operational readiness.
Details :
Lead Instructor: John Carver
Max Class Size: 16
Required PPE: Station wear (pants and closed-toe shoes) and PT wear.
Dynamic Fire Behavior (HOT COURSE)
February 16, 2026 12:00 - 16:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:20
Gain firsthand insight into the behaviors that shape today’s modern fire environment. Using the flashover simulator, students will observe fire development phases, rollover, flashover precursors, and changing smoke conditions. Emphasis is placed on tactical ventilation, flow path awareness, and fire attack decision-making. A must for anyone seeking to better understand the science of fire behavior.
Details:
Lead Instructor: Jeremy Beaumont
Max Class Size: 32
Required PPE: Full structural PPE (helmet, hood, gloves, boots, coat, pants) plus water bottle, shower items, towel, and change of clothes.
1031/1033 Recertification - Photography
February 16, 2026 08:00 - 12:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:95
This course will discuss evidence collection techniques and recommended associated photography. This course will be practical exercise heavy. Students should bring their department issued camera (and know how to use it). We will have all required equipment for the practical’s, but if you have a specialized tool such as a laser measuring device, feel free to bring it.
Enrollment Restrictions - Open to 1031 and 1033 certified personnel
1031/1033 Recertification - Legal Update
February 16, 2026 13:00 - 17:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:93
A four-hour block of instruction concerning legal topics that impact the investigation of fires and inspections of businesses. There will be a piece that encompasses case law as well as code changes/updates.
Open to 1031and1033 certified personnel
No-Nonsense Leadership: A Realistic Approach For The Company Officer
February 16, 2026 08:00 - 12:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:88
| Presenter(s) |
| Jarrod Sergi |
This class provides the tools and knowledge to lead from the front as a company officer, all while building an effective group of performers. It targets newly promoted company officers as well as those who may assume the role in the near future but will ultimately benefit anyone who has the desire to make change and drive ownership into the company level. Company officers truly are the backbone in any fire department. They have the ability to keep their department running strong and efficient with their example, attitude, and passion. This class emphasizes the importance of unit cohesion and how it can have a lasting impact. It is meant to inspire action and produce results in your company, your station, and your department.
| Virginia Office of EMS |
| LCCR/ICCR - Category 2 |
Rescue Operations For The Engine Company
February 16, 2026 08:00 - 12:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:90
| Presenter(s) |
| Nick Peppard |
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 instructor’s nearly 2 decades of running calls in rural, suburban and urban systems.
| Virginia Office of EMS |
| LCCR/ICCR - Category 2 |
The Meter Guys SOS "Saving Ourselves"
February 16, 2026 08:00 - 12:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:96
| Presenter(s) |
| Scott Russell & Ben Bosley |
The Health and Safety of your personnel is your number one priority. This class teaches the attendee the importance of understanding whats in the smoke you and your personnel are breathing. This class focuses on fire gases and the risks to personnel. This is not a class on CO and HCN, we go way beyond this basic approach. Attendees will learn a wide array of toxic gases that could be present and why we have such a prevalent cancer problem in the fire service. Only through education/training can we make a difference now and in the future of your personnel. This is an essential class for all responders! We must change our culture now! This is a true safety course for all responders, not a check the box Incident Safety Officer course!
| Virginia Office of EMS | NCCR (Category 1) BLS Area | NCCR (Category 1) - ALS Area |
| NCCR - Category 1 | 13 - Trauma | 18 - Trauma |
The Meter Guys SOS "Saving Ourselves"
February 16, 2026 13:00 - 17:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:98
| The Health and Safety of your personnel is your number one priority. This class teaches the attendee the importance of understanding whats in the smoke you and your personnel are breathing. This class focuses on fire gases and the risks to personnel. This is not a class on CO and HCN, we go way beyond this basic approach. Attendees will learn a wide array of toxic gases that could be present and why we have such a prevalent cancer problem in the fire service. Only through education/training can we make a difference now and in the future of your personnel. This is an essential class for all responders! We must change our culture now! This is a true safety course for all responders, not a check the box Incident Safety Officer course! |
AI Policy In The Fire Department
February 16, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:91
| This presentation introduces practical tips and policy framework for chief officers to evaluate the risks and opportunities of AI in fire department communications. |
AI Policy In The Fire Department
February 16, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:96
| This presentation introduces practical tips and policy framework for chief officers to evaluate the risks and opportunities of AI in fire department communications. |
Beyond The Buggy: Extended And Complex Incident Management
February 16, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:93
| Most working incidents are handled by the initial incident commander operating from their command vehicle or chief’s “buggy”, but some incidents extend beyond the initial response or exceed the capabilities of the initial command team. Attendees will learn to recognize incidents that go beyond the buggy, requiring a more definitive command structure for effective incident management. The presentation will utilize case studies of a Virginia wildland urban interface fire and the recent aircraft crash at Reagan National Airport to explore the concepts of managing extended or complex incidents. |
Beyond The Buggy: Extended And Complex Incident Management
February 16, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:91
| Most working incidents are handled by the initial incident commander operating from their command vehicle or chief’s “buggy”, but some incidents extend beyond the initial response or exceed the capabilities of the initial command team. Attendees will learn to recognize incidents that go beyond the buggy, requiring a more definitive command structure for effective incident management. The presentation will utilize case studies of a Virginia wildland urban interface fire and the recent aircraft crash at Reagan National Airport to explore the concepts of managing extended or complex incidents. |
Effective Fireground Command: A Practical Approach From The Cab To The Car
February 16, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:87
| Effective fireground command doesn’t have to start once a chief officer gets on scene. Effective command and control starts with the first arriving company and continues throughout the duration of the incident. This program reinforces the need for strong command and control from the moment the first air brake hits until demobilization. Focus will be on understanding how to establish appropriate strategies and reinforcing those strategies with sound tactics. We will dive into size up, command presence, communications, resource allocation, risk management, and building out an ICS structure in a practical way. The goal of this program is to give incident commanders of all ranks the tools and knowledge to run effective firegrounds that support decision making at the lowest level, and not micromanagement from the highest. |
Effective Fireground Command: A Practical Approach From The Cab To The Car
February 16, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:90
| Effective fireground command doesn’t have to start once a chief officer gets on scene. Effective command and control starts with the first arriving company and continues throughout the duration of the incident. This program reinforces the need for strong command and control from the moment the first air brake hits until demobilization. Focus will be on understanding how to establish appropriate strategies and reinforcing those strategies with sound tactics. We will dive into size up, command presence, communications, resource allocation, risk management, and building out an ICS structure in a practical way. The goal of this program is to give incident commanders of all ranks the tools and knowledge to run effective firegrounds that support decision making at the lowest level, and not micromanagement from the highest. |
Fire Ground Functions For Today’s Truck Driver
February 16, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:98
| An operator’s role is more than just getting the rig on scene. This presentation focuses on the mindset and traits needed to become a competent and well-rounded aerial operator. We will take a deep dive into aerial positioning, ground ladders, ventilation, and victim removal. We’ll discuss what to look and listen for to influence decisions that will have a lasting impact on the fire scene. We will examine numerous photos of aerial placement at various structure fires and explore the reasoning and strategies behind them. From there, we’ll discuss the importance of ground ladders and how they are considered the backbone of an aerial operator's responsibilities. We will explore where, when, and how to throw ground ladders to properly support crews working on the scene. Next, we’ll cover when, why, and how to properly perform vertical ventilation. We’ll look at the tools required to locate the ideal ventilation point and accomplish the task effectively. Lastly, we will discuss victim removal operations from the aerial operator’s perspective—whether it involves VEIS, removal via ladder, or assisting a victim out the front door. |
Fire Ground Functions For Today’s Truck Driver
February 16, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:97
| An operator’s role is more than just getting the rig on scene. This presentation focuses on the mindset and traits needed to become a competent and well-rounded aerial operator. We will take a deep dive into aerial positioning, ground ladders, ventilation, and victim removal. We’ll discuss what to look and listen for to influence decisions that will have a lasting impact on the fire scene. We will examine numerous photos of aerial placement at various structure fires and explore the reasoning and strategies behind them. From there, we’ll discuss the importance of ground ladders and how they are considered the backbone of an aerial operator's responsibilities. We will explore where, when, and how to throw ground ladders to properly support crews working on the scene. Next, we’ll cover when, why, and how to properly perform vertical ventilation. We’ll look at the tools required to locate the ideal ventilation point and accomplish the task effectively. Lastly, we will discuss victim removal operations from the aerial operator’s perspective—whether it involves VEIS, removal via ladder, or assisting a victim out the front door. |
Forged In Fire: Building Firefighter Resilience Through Emotional Intelligence
February 16, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:96
| This course explores how emotional intelligence (EI) can be used to strengthen the mental resilience, team dynamics, and leadership capacity of today’s firefighters. Through interactive discussions, real-world fire service scenarios, and self-assessment tools, participants will develop core EI skills—such as self-awareness, emotional regulation, empathy, and effective communication. The course is designed to help firefighters manage stress, enhance decision-making under pressure, and create a healthier, more connected firehouse culture. Whether in the rig, on the fireground, or back at the station, emotional intelligence is a critical tool for building strong, adaptable, mission-ready firefighters. |
Forged In Fire: Building Firefighter Resilience Through Emotional Intelligence
February 16, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:97
| This course explores how emotional intelligence (EI) can be used to strengthen the mental resilience, team dynamics, and leadership capacity of today’s firefighters. Through interactive discussions, real-world fire service scenarios, and self-assessment tools, participants will develop core EI skills—such as self-awareness, emotional regulation, empathy, and effective communication. The course is designed to help firefighters manage stress, enhance decision-making under pressure, and create a healthier, more connected firehouse culture. Whether in the rig, on the fireground, or back at the station, emotional intelligence is a critical tool for building strong, adaptable, mission-ready firefighters. |
Leadership Development For Career And Volunteer Departments: Building For Today, Tomorrow, And Beyond.
February 16, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:100
| Fire and EMS departments nationwide are grappling with critical recruitment and retention challenges that threaten operational readiness and community safety. This dynamic presentation, delivered by seasoned public safety practitioners who have successfully developed and implemented leadership programs from the ground up, offers a proven roadmap for transforming departmental culture through strategic leadership development. Drawing from their extensive experience as both students in and architects of leading programs for career and volunteer audiences, the presenters will share hard-won insights into the importance of promoting "people-focused leadership" that creates leaders capable of driving meaningful change at the station level, on scene, and in their communities. Attendees will gain practical, actionable knowledge spanning the entire program lifecycle — from initial research and curriculum design to navigating the complex experiential and logistical challenges (venue selection and contracts, instructor recruitment, funding strategies, and more) that are essential to providing a transformative learning experience. With fire service leadership gaps widening and traditional approaches falling short, this session provides conference attendees with battle-tested strategies and real-world case studies that demonstrate how thoughtfully designed leadership development can directly address today's most pressing workforce challenges while building sustainable capacity for tomorrow's evolving demands. Learning Objectives include: -Understanding the critical role of people-focused skills development in developing Fire/EMS leaders who excel operationally, administratively, and within their communities -Mastering the complete process of designing tailored leadership programs, from curriculum development and delivery models to budget planning and student experience optimization -Navigating operational challenges including venue selection, staff recruitment, marketing strategies, partnership development, and performance tracking to ensure program success and sustainability -In-class demonstrations of techniques used to amplify learning experiences, potentially to include scenario-based learning, team building activities, and more. |
Leadership Development For Career And Volunteer Departments: Building For Today, Tomorrow, And Beyond.
February 16, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:99
| Fire and EMS departments nationwide are grappling with critical recruitment and retention challenges that threaten operational readiness and community safety. This dynamic presentation, delivered by seasoned public safety practitioners who have successfully developed and implemented leadership programs from the ground up, offers a proven roadmap for transforming departmental culture through strategic leadership development. Drawing from their extensive experience as both students in and architects of leading programs for career and volunteer audiences, the presenters will share hard-won insights into the importance of promoting "people-focused leadership" that creates leaders capable of driving meaningful change at the station level, on scene, and in their communities. Attendees will gain practical, actionable knowledge spanning the entire program lifecycle — from initial research and curriculum design to navigating the complex experiential and logistical challenges (venue selection and contracts, instructor recruitment, funding strategies, and more) that are essential to providing a transformative learning experience. With fire service leadership gaps widening and traditional approaches falling short, this session provides conference attendees with battle-tested strategies and real-world case studies that demonstrate how thoughtfully designed leadership development can directly address today's most pressing workforce challenges while building sustainable capacity for tomorrow's evolving demands. Learning Objectives include: -Understanding the critical role of people-focused skills development in developing Fire/EMS leaders who excel operationally, administratively, and within their communities -Mastering the complete process of designing tailored leadership programs, from curriculum development and delivery models to budget planning and student experience optimization -Navigating operational challenges including venue selection, staff recruitment, marketing strategies, partnership development, and performance tracking to ensure program success and sustainability -In-class demonstrations of techniques used to amplify learning experiences, potentially to include scenario-based learning, team building activities, and more. |
Leadership On The Spectrum
February 16, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:98
| This presentation will cover leadership challenges of someone who has a social disorder, specifically Asperger’s, 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. |
Leadership On The Spectrum
February 16, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:97
| This presentation will cover leadership challenges of someone who has a social disorder, specifically Asperger’s, 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. |
MCS/VAD Education For EMS And First Responders
February 16, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:100
| This course is designed to provide knowledge on VAD management in various emergency situations. |
MCS/VAD Education For EMS And First Responders
February 16, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:99
| This course is designed to provide knowledge on VAD management in various emergency situations. |
Show Me The Data: Transforming To A Data-Informed Fire Department
February 16, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:98
| Using data properly takes time, staff and money, but the days of justifying change based solely on intuition are quickly coming to a close. This session will cover how the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department, the largest fire department in Virginia, transformed into a data-informed agency. It details the personnel, tools and techniques utilized along with use cases that will allow departments to examine their current needs and plan for the future. |
Show Me The Data: Transforming To A Data-Informed Fire Department
February 16, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:95
| Using data properly takes time, staff and money, but the days of justifying change based solely on intuition are quickly coming to a close. This session will cover how the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department, the largest fire department in Virginia, transformed into a data-informed agency. It details the personnel, tools and techniques utilized along with use cases that will allow departments to examine their current needs and plan for the future. |
Emergency Childbirth
February 16, 2026 13:00 - 17:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:97
| Learn about Birth Emergencies in the field with some hands on skills to deal with them. We cover Breech, Preterm Birth, Newborn Resuscitation, Hemorrhage, Hypertensive disorders, Cord prolapse and Twin Birth. We also cover emergency transfer from home or birth center to hospital for planned and unplanned community birth as well as anything else folks have questions about. Communication and debriefing is also covered. |
Left Seat Tips And Tactics
February 16, 2026 13:00 - 17:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:99
| 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. |
The First Due Engine To An Active Shooter/Hostile Event
February 16, 2026 13:00 - 17:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:97
| In today’s world, there is no question that all first responders—paid or volunteer—must be prepared to respond to active shooter and hostile events (ASHE). These incidents can happen anywhere, at any time, and often unfold rapidly, requiring a coordinated, informed response from all emergency services. This presentation provides practical, no-fluff guidance specifically tailored for fire departments that may not have the resources for extended ASHE training. Attendees will receive essential information that empowers them to make informed decisions when responding to these high-risk, dynamic events. The course focuses on understanding the firefighter’s role within the incident command system, integrating effectively with law enforcement and EMS, and establishing and managing a Level II staging area. Grounded in lessons learned from real-world after-action reports, FBI studies, NFPA 3000, and Active Shooter Incident Management (ASIM) training, the lecture will cover critical topics including ASHE terminology, incident statistics, response procedures, apparatus placement, and radio communications. Designed with respect for limited time and resources, this presentation delivers actionable insights to help first responders initiate the conversation within their departments and improve preparedness. The ultimate goal is for attendees to return to their stations equipped to engage in planning, coordination, and future training—because when an ASHE incident occurs, every responder must know their role and be ready to act. |
Chief Officer School (2-Day HOT COURSE)
February 17, 2026 08:00 - 16:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:19
Designed for current and aspiring chief officers, this program develops command presence and strategic-level fireground leadership. Participants will explore multiple command styles, build realistic simulations, and integrate with Engine and Truck companies in full-scale scenarios. The focus is on tactical mastery and higher-level decision-making under stress.
Details:
Lead Instructor: Joe Marzitello, Lester Flint, Ben Jenkins
Max Class Size: 24
Required PPE: Optional: Full structural PPE (helmet, hood, gloves, boots, coat, pants) plus water bottle, shower items, towel, and change of clothes.
Engine Operations (2-Day HOT Course)
February 17, 2026 08:00 - 16:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:27
Join our 2-Day Engine Company Operations Training and develop your skills at selecting, deploying, and advancing attack lines in a reality based, scenario driven training environment! This hands-on course is your chance to perfect the fundamentals that set the stage for a successful fire attack! You’ll Learn hose and nozzle management techniques for vertical advancement, long hallway stretches and sharp corner maneuvers to ensure a smooth, effective stretch every time. Students will also discuss critical strategies for locating and removing victims while advancing the attack line. Using a reality-based training model, you’ll practice in real world scenarios designed to mirror realistic situations. The training culminates on day 2 with an exhilarating live fire scenario, where you’ll apply your skills in a full tempo live fire scenario.
Truck Operations (2-Day HOT COURSE)
February 17, 2026 08:00 - 16:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:24
Join us for a 2-Day Truck Operations class designed to transform your skills in scenario driven fireground operations environment! This hands-on course dives into the heart of truck company tactics, focusing on role-specific responsibilities, team management concepts, and resource deployment models such as the inside/outside team concept.
This class will cover vital truck function skills such as
Vent Enter Search (VES)
Forcible Entry
Residential Primary Search
Ground Ladder Deployment
Victim Removal
Our reality-based, scenario-driven curriculum immerses you in lifelike training environments, allowing you to practice and perfect your techniques. The grand finale? A large-scale live-fire scenario on Day 2, where you’ll deploy your newly honed skills in a realistic live fire scenario alongside other fireground teams.
Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your firefighting expertise and become a master of truck company operations!
Details:
Lead Instructor: Chris Isdell, Jake Maund
Max Class Size: 32
Required PPE: Full structural PPE (helmet, hood, gloves, boots, coat, pants) plus water bottle, shower items, towel, and change of clothes.
Company Officer Development (2-Day HOT Course)
February 17, 2026 08:00 - 16:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:20
The first-arriving company officer sets the tone for every incident. Clear, confident, and concise communication isn’t just important—it’s essential. Join us for an intense 2-day, scenario-driven training experience designed for current and aspiring Company Officers. You’ll sharpen your ability to deliver effective on-scene communication, give accurate situation reports, and set the stage for tactical success. Through hands-on simulations and repeated practice, you’ll build a personal playbook of tactics for a wide range of incidents. Then, on Day 2, put your skills to the test as you step into the role of Company Officer during a full-scale, live-fire scenario. This is your chance to lead with authority, strengthen your tactical voice, and prepare for the challenges of the fireground.
Details:
- Max Class Size: 24
- Required PPE: Full structural PPE (helmet, hood, gloves, boots, coat, pants) plus water bottle, shower items, towel, and change of clothes.
1031/1033 Recertification - Inspector And Investigator Safety
February 17, 2026 08:00 - 12:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:91
This delivery looks at Inspector and Investigator safety from a wide lens. This course does not focus only on interactions with people, but on the dangers that inspectors and investigators encounter on location and involving processes.
Open to 1031 and 1033 certified personnel
1031 Recertification - Food Truck Inspections
February 17, 2026 13:00 - 17:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:92
Food trucks and how your locality is handling these types of inspections and permitting. This in-depth program will go into the provisions of the SFPC, how the State Fire Marshals Office handles these, and how our departments can better work together on the challenges that food trucks pose to the Commonwealth.
Open to 1031 certified personnel
Fire Service Human Resources Forum
February 17, 2026 08:00 - 12:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:43
| People First: Strengthening HR Practices in the Fire Service - The fire service continues to evolve in response to complex personnel challenges—ranging from recruitment and retention to workforce accommodations, DEI, behavioral health, and legally defensible hiring practices. This forum brings together HR experts, department leadership, and jurisdictional partners to address these issues collaboratively. Through guided discussion, case studies, and best-practice sharing, this session will bridge the operational-HR divide, building shared understanding and capability across the fire service workforce ecosystem. |
The Meter Guys "When Meters Matter" Air Monitoring For First Responders
February 17, 2026 08:00 - 17:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:97
| The Meter Guys Air Monitoring for First Responders “When Meters Matter” 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 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. 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. Furthermore, the student will learn a 90 second street smart chemical and physical properties size up to use upon arrival. This assessment will be focused on DOT transported materials involved in incidents. We customize each class to focus on target hazards from local transportation, industry, rail etc. in your area. We will also focus on hazards you would like us to cover that are of concern to your juridstiction. 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 recalibrate 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. With this concept the Meter Guys are committed to there being 1-2 students at the most per meter. We have watched many training classes with 4-8 students plus huddled around one meter at a table. This type of training is not conducive to learning how to use a lifesaving piece of equipment and why we bring our cache of meters to you for training. |
Company Operations In Garden Apartment Fires
February 17, 2026 08:00 - 09:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:90
This presentation is meant to provide the tools and knowledge needed to combat your next garden apartment fire. Garden apartments are present in just about every part of the country. These occupancies provide a unique set of challenges both from the company and command level. There will be a heavy emphasis on operations at the company level. As goes the actions of those first arriving companies, goes the incident. This class provide the student with sound tactical decision making that will not only support the command officers in the street, but ultimately lead to a successful outcome for the occupants. Key topics to be discussed will be construction, access problems, life safety concerns, fire attack considerations, water supply issues, ventilation and more.
Company Operations In Garden Apartment Fires
February 17, 2026 10:00 - 11:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:98
| This presentation is meant to provide the tools and knowledge needed to combat your next garden apartment fire. Garden apartments are present in just about every part of the country. These occupancies provide a unique set of challenges both from the company and command level. There will be a heavy emphasis on operations at the company level. As goes the actions of those first arriving companies, goes the incident. This class provide the student with sound tactical decision making that will not only support the command officers in the street, but ultimately lead to a successful outcome for the occupants. Key topics to be discussed will be construction, access problems, life safety concerns, fire attack considerations, water supply issues, ventilation and more. |
From Tradition To Transformation: Leading Change In The Firehouse
February 17, 2026 08:00 - 09:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:95
| Change management is a very important but under taught component of leadership in an organization. This course uses fire service examples to emphasize the models and theories of change management and diffusion of innovation theory. The course will teach methods of determining why change is needed, communication, challenges, and provide a guide of how to be successful. This course will also describe how change will affect members of an organization and provide methods to help everyone through the transitions. |
From Tradition To Transformation: Leading Change In The Firehouse
February 17, 2026 10:00 - 11:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:90
| Change management is a very important but under taught component of leadership in an organization. This course uses fire service examples to emphasize the models and theories of change management and diffusion of innovation theory. The course will teach methods of determining why change is needed, communication, challenges, and provide a guide of how to be successful. This course will also describe how change will affect members of an organization and provide methods to help everyone through the transitions. |
Leading The Primary Search
February 17, 2026 08:00 - 09:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:97
| This presentation takes the audience through conducting primary searches in building fires from dispatch through completion of the search. We will expand upon where, when, and how to search more effectively as a team. We analyze dispatch information to assist in determining victim locations and we analyze audio clips of successful primary searches to break down the reasoning and decision making processes for these events. This presentation will include typical benchmarks of the search team and how we use use the benchmarks of other companies to develop our search techniques and aggressiveness. Techniques for searching without the advantage of hoselines in place or operating above a fire will be taught to emphasize the fastest removal of victims possible while maintaining the safety and integrity of those assigned to us performing these searches. Situational awareness of the search team is expanded upon to explain how routine fireground functions will increase the effectiveness of our team. Lastly, this presentation teaches the audience additional methods for removing victims once located while providing them the highest chances of survival. Several components of this presentation will emphasize maintaining accountability of your team during firefighting conditions while upholding your own situational awareness. |
Leading The Primary Search
February 17, 2026 10:00 - 11:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:96
| This presentation takes the audience through conducting primary searches in building fires from dispatch through completion of the search. We will expand upon where, when, and how to search more effectively as a team. We analyze dispatch information to assist in determining victim locations and we analyze audio clips of successful primary searches to break down the reasoning and decision making processes for these events. This presentation will include typical benchmarks of the search team and how we use use the benchmarks of other companies to develop our search techniques and aggressiveness. Techniques for searching without the advantage of hoselines in place or operating above a fire will be taught to emphasize the fastest removal of victims possible while maintaining the safety and integrity of those assigned to us performing these searches. Situational awareness of the search team is expanded upon to explain how routine fireground functions will increase the effectiveness of our team. Lastly, this presentation teaches the audience additional methods for removing victims once located while providing them the highest chances of survival. Several components of this presentation will emphasize maintaining accountability of your team during firefighting conditions while upholding your own situational awareness. |
Looking Good Matters For Devices, Too!!
February 17, 2026 08:00 - 09:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:99
| Do you know why the bevel is slanted on the NPA, or why insulin pens are designed the way they are? This lecture will take a look at the history of medical devices and how they've changed over the years for patient comfort, safety, and ease of use. |
Looking Good Matters For Devices, Too!!
February 17, 2026 10:00 - 11:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:99
| Do you know why the bevel is slanted on the NPA, or why insulin pens are designed the way they are? This lecture will take a look at the history of medical devices and how they've changed over the years for patient comfort, safety, and ease of use. |
Mindful Hiring In Fire & EMS: Enhancing Recruitment With Psychological Evaluations
February 17, 2026 08:00 - 09:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:99
| In fire and EMS services, employees must perform under extreme stress, make split-second decisions, and function seamlessly within close-knit teams where trust and communication are life-saving essentials. This presentation explores the critical role of pre-hire psychological evaluations in ensuring new hires are not only technically qualified but also emotionally and behaviorally prepared for the demands of the job. We will discuss how modern psychological assessments—grounded in scientific evidence and aligned with professional guidelines—can improve hiring outcomes, reduce turnover, and prevent costly performance issues. Attendees will learn how to identify the right psychological traits to evaluate (e.g., stress tolerance, emotional regulation, teamwork orientation, integrity), how these evaluations complement background checks and physical ability tests, and how they contribute to a safer and more resilient workforce. Whether you are hiring firefighter-paramedics, EMTs, or frontline supervisory staff, this session will provide practical strategies for integrating psychological screening into your department’s hiring process. Learning Objectives: Understand the unique psychological demands of Fire and EMS roles and how they impact long-term performance. Learn how validated psychological assessments can improve selection decisions and reduce organizational risk. Explore the latest tools and methods used in public safety psychological evaluations. Develop practical strategies to integrate psychological screening into your agency’s recruitment and selection processes. |
Mindful Hiring In Fire & EMS: Enhancing Recruitment With Psychological Evaluations
February 17, 2026 10:00 - 11:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:97
| In fire and EMS services, employees must perform under extreme stress, make split-second decisions, and function seamlessly within close-knit teams where trust and communication are life-saving essentials. This presentation explores the critical role of pre-hire psychological evaluations in ensuring new hires are not only technically qualified but also emotionally and behaviorally prepared for the demands of the job. We will discuss how modern psychological assessments—grounded in scientific evidence and aligned with professional guidelines—can improve hiring outcomes, reduce turnover, and prevent costly performance issues. Attendees will learn how to identify the right psychological traits to evaluate (e.g., stress tolerance, emotional regulation, teamwork orientation, integrity), how these evaluations complement background checks and physical ability tests, and how they contribute to a safer and more resilient workforce. Whether you are hiring firefighter-paramedics, EMTs, or frontline supervisory staff, this session will provide practical strategies for integrating psychological screening into your department’s hiring process. Learning Objectives: Understand the unique psychological demands of Fire and EMS roles and how they impact long-term performance. Learn how validated psychological assessments can improve selection decisions and reduce organizational risk. Explore the latest tools and methods used in public safety psychological evaluations. Develop practical strategies to integrate psychological screening into your agency’s recruitment and selection processes. |
Sex, Drugs & Cell Phones: Ethics In Today's Public Safety Agency
February 17, 2026 08:00 - 09:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:94
| Public safety leaders often focus on role-based or situational ethics. The very nature of the fire service and EMS creates many layers of ethical conflict that cut across all of our organizational layers. This session will take a look at the broader aspects of ethics by looking at a number of events and discussing how we promote positive ethical change in our organizations. |
Sex, Drugs & Cell Phones: Ethics In Today's Public Safety Agency
February 17, 2026 10:00 - 11:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:93
| Public safety leaders often focus on role-based or situational ethics. The very nature of the fire service and EMS creates many layers of ethical conflict that cut across all of our organizational layers. This session will take a look at the broader aspects of ethics by looking at a number of events and discussing how we promote positive ethical change in our organizations. |
STEMI And SENSI How I Shocked My Mentor (LITERALLY)
February 17, 2026 08:00 - 09:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:100
| What do you do when the person you're trying to save is the same one who helped shape the provider you’ve become? STEMI & SENSI: How I Shocked My Mentor (Literally) dives into one of the most personal and high-stakes calls of my career — treating my own mentor during a massive Inferior STEMI with right side involvement. This isn’t just a cardiac case study; it’s a look into what happens when muscle memory, clinical training, and raw emotion collide. We’ll break down every phase of the call: assessment, treatment decisions, transport, and post-care reflections. But we’ll also explore the side of EMS we don’t talk about enough — emotional composure, scene presence, and the ability to function when the stakes are more personal than ever. Whether you're new to the field or a seasoned provider, this session blends protocols with personal growth, clinical skill with human experience — because someday, the life you shock might be someone who once gave you the spark to begin this journey. |
STEMI And SENSI How I Shocked My Mentor (LITERALLY)
February 17, 2026 10:00 - 11:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:99
| What do you do when the person you're trying to save is the same one who helped shape the provider you’ve become? STEMI & SENSI: How I Shocked My Mentor (Literally) dives into one of the most personal and high-stakes calls of my career — treating my own mentor during a massive Inferior STEMI with right side involvement. This isn’t just a cardiac case study; it’s a look into what happens when muscle memory, clinical training, and raw emotion collide. We’ll break down every phase of the call: assessment, treatment decisions, transport, and post-care reflections. But we’ll also explore the side of EMS we don’t talk about enough — emotional composure, scene presence, and the ability to function when the stakes are more personal than ever. Whether you're new to the field or a seasoned provider, this session blends protocols with personal growth, clinical skill with human experience — because someday, the life you shock might be someone who once gave you the spark to begin this journey. |
The Effective Role Of The Fire/EMS Service Instructor: A Way To Lead And Influence
February 17, 2026 08:00 - 09:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:97
| The purpose of this presentation is to discuss how to shape your training department to train in the field of Fire and Emergency Medical Services to develop teaching styles related to the different generations in and entering the Fire/EMS services. The training department is a division that can conduct quality training with ALL members of the department by conducting or sponsoring courses with the department’s mission, vision, and values. The training division members can influence everyone in the department. With the right attitude and commitment, the department can increase the department’s overall knowledge, skills and abilities of all members. This will promote a new culture of love and passion for the job and increase retention within the agency. |
The Fireground EMT: Expanding EMS Contributions On The Fireground
February 17, 2026 08:00 - 09:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:100
| This presentation explores the expanding and increasingly vital role of non-firefighter Emergency Medical Services (EMS) professionals—specifically Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs)—within fireground operations. As the dynamics of emergency response continue to evolve, EMTs are stepping beyond their traditional medical duties to take on new responsibilities that enhance fireground efficiency, safety, and coordination. The session outlines how EMTs are now actively engaging in fireground strategy, communication, and support efforts alongside firefighting personnel. Emphasis is placed on cross-functional knowledge, collaboration, and proactive safety practices. |
The Fireground EMT: Expanding EMS Contributions On The Fireground
February 17, 2026 10:00 - 11:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:98
| This presentation explores the expanding and increasingly vital role of non-firefighter Emergency Medical Services (EMS) professionals—specifically Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs)—within fireground operations. As the dynamics of emergency response continue to evolve, EMTs are stepping beyond their traditional medical duties to take on new responsibilities that enhance fireground efficiency, safety, and coordination. The session outlines how EMTs are now actively engaging in fireground strategy, communication, and support efforts alongside firefighting personnel. Emphasis is placed on cross-functional knowledge, collaboration, and proactive safety practices. |
From Theory To Smoke : Realistic Search Tactics, Tips, And Practical Training For The Modern Day Search Culture.
February 17, 2026 08:00 - 12:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:98
| In this lecture series we will cover real world search tactics that will improve your search ability. We will cover how to move victims from all positions. Cover tips and tricks that we have picked up over our careers along with tips learned from others. We will also be covering how to make your training environment more practical and effective in today's fire service. This course will take your search training and skill set to the next level. |
From Theory To Smoke : Realistic Search Tactics, Tips, And Practical Training For The Modern Day Search Culture.
February 17, 2026 13:00 - 17:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:88
| In this lecture series we will cover real world search tactics that will improve your search ability. We will cover how to move victims from all positions. Cover tips and tricks that we have picked up over our careers along with tips learned from others. We will also be covering how to make your training environment more practical and effective in today's fire service. This course will take your search training and skill set to the next level. |
Leading People: Human-Centered Leadership For Real-World Impact
February 17, 2026 08:00 - 12:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:98
| This course explores the art and science of human-centered leadership, blending psychology, neuroscience, and real-world case studies to help leaders at all levels grow with purpose. Participants will examine how mindset, behavior, and culture shape leadership outcomes—learning from experiments like Asch’s conformity study, Milgram’s obedience research, and the Stanford Prison Experiment. Topics include growth mindset, lifelong learning, humility, feedback, diversity, and the psychology behind group dynamics, decision-making, and performance under pressure. Designed to help leaders avoid toxic pitfalls and develop with integrity, this course encourages reflection, dialogue, and a renewed focus on leading people—not just processes. |
Leading People: Human-Centered Leadership For Real-World Impact
February 17, 2026 13:00 - 17:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:93
This course explores the art and science of human-centered leadership, blending psychology, neuroscience, and real-world case studies to help leaders at all levels grow with purpose. Participants will examine how mindset, behavior, and culture shape leadership outcomes—learning from experiments like Asch’s conformity study, Milgram’s obedience research, and the Stanford Prison Experiment. Topics include growth mindset, lifelong learning, humility, feedback, diversity, and the psychology behind group dynamics, decision-making, and performance under pressure. Designed to help leaders avoid toxic pitfalls and develop with integrity, this course encourages reflection, dialogue, and a renewed focus on leading people—not just processes.
Slap The Cap: The Comprehensive Capnography Course
February 17, 2026 08:00 - 12:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:95
| 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! |
The Tactical Engine
February 17, 2026 08:00 - 12:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:96
| The Tactical Engine 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. |
Unified Command, Communications And Control Of An Active Assailant Situation With RTF's
February 17, 2026 10:00 - 11:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:94
| The purpose of this presentation is for awareness and training because these events could happen anywhere at any time. Showing that schools and large outdoor events are targets of these types of events. Defining proper stages of planning to prepare and added safeguards within normal or special events. Understanding history, so we don't repeat it by learning from the situation and improving the weak areas. Instill why this type of training should be in basic fire academies because it will be the people working in Operations, in the field, first arriving, first utilized, first deployed in the assignment and first to make contact with the patients to save lives. Reviewing what essential equipment to obtain for your team as well as RTF bags for patents and removal of patents. Obtaining buy-in from the "stakeholders" to integrate training between Police and Fire-EMS. |
A Healthier First Responder: Cancer, Cardiac Arrest, PTSD - The Impact Of Sleep Deprivation And Work Schedules
February 17, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:94
| An Examination of the Potential Adverse Health Effects of Sleep Deprivation Among First Responders Due to Shift Work and the 56-Hour Work Week—and Strategies for Prevention and Mitigation |
A Healthier First Responder: Cancer, Cardiac Arrest, PTSD - The Impact Of Sleep Deprivation And Work Schedules
February 17, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:99
| An Examination of the Potential Adverse Health Effects of Sleep Deprivation Among First Responders Due to Shift Work and the 56-Hour Work Week—and Strategies for Prevention and Mitigation |
CO = HR X SV, The Most Important Formula In EMS
February 17, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:99
| The purpose of this presentation is to understand the formula Cardiac Output equals Heart Rate times Stroke Volume (CO=HR x SV). This formula is taught in the EMT courses but do the providers get a good understanding of how important Cardiac Out is to the body? Do our AEMT and Paramedics have a good understanding? Cardiac output (CO) is also a formula for blood pressure. We will talk about how the heart rate and stroke volume influence cardiac output. The mean arterial pressure (MAP) is also talked about and explained in detail. The presentation has some animations of the heart in different conditions including the electrical activity of the heart. We discuss preload and after load and how that will influence cardiac output. We explain Frank Starling’s Law (Curve) and the benefits. The presentation explains the perfusion triangle and how it relates to the fire apparatus. We also discuss chemoreceptors and baroreceptors and at the end of the presentation, the audience will gain a better understanding of how cardiac output can be changed and influenced by extrinsic methods and medications. |
CO = HR X SV, The Most Important Formula In EMS
February 17, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:100
| The purpose of this presentation is to understand the formula Cardiac Output equals Heart Rate times Stroke Volume (CO=HR x SV). This formula is taught in the EMT courses but do the providers get a good understanding of how important Cardiac Out is to the body? Do our AEMT and Paramedics have a good understanding? Cardiac output (CO) is also a formula for blood pressure. We will talk about how the heart rate and stroke volume influence cardiac output. The mean arterial pressure (MAP) is also talked about and explained in detail. The presentation has some animations of the heart in different conditions including the electrical activity of the heart. We discuss preload and after load and how that will influence cardiac output. We explain Frank Starling’s Law (Curve) and the benefits. The presentation explains the perfusion triangle and how it relates to the fire apparatus. We also discuss chemoreceptors and baroreceptors and at the end of the presentation, the audience will gain a better understanding of how cardiac output can be changed and influenced by extrinsic methods and medications. |
Leading Effective Fire Department Training Operations
February 17, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:94
| Rather a small volunteer fire department or a large metropolitan fire department, every department must have an effective training program to ensure safe and effective operations. There are plenty of classes on how to be an effective instructor, but there are very few classes on leading and managing overall department training operations. This class fills that gap. Rather your department has a single, part-time training officer or a large training division staff, this class will help students learn the keys of managing and leading their department’s training organization. The class includes information that can improve already established training operations along with knowledge for students who are looking for the more strategic, deliberate, and long-term guidance needed to further develop or expand department training operations. |
Leading Effective Fire Department Training Operations
February 17, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:94
| Rather a small volunteer fire department or a large metropolitan fire department, every department must have an effective training program to ensure safe and effective operations. There are plenty of classes on how to be an effective instructor, but there are very few classes on leading and managing overall department training operations. This class fills that gap. Rather your department has a single, part-time training officer or a large training division staff, this class will help students learn the keys of managing and leading their department’s training organization. The class includes information that can improve already established training operations along with knowledge for students who are looking for the more strategic, deliberate, and long-term guidance needed to further develop or expand department training operations. |
Little People Big World
February 17, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:99
| This lecture will briefly look at stages of life development in the pediatric patient, and what trauma looks like over various age groups. It will discuss treatments and various resources for the trauma patient. |
Little People Big World
February 17, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:95
| This lecture will briefly look at stages of life development in the pediatric patient, and what trauma looks like over various age groups. It will discuss treatments and various resources for the trauma patient. |
Musical Notes Of Leadership
February 17, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:93
Who doesn't love attending a concert with your favorite musician, band, etc.? The sights, sounds, good times, memories, and of course, the overpriced merchandise and concessions. But have you ever been jamming out mid-concert and had several leadership lessons hit you like an 808 drum? I did during several shows over the past few years and actually remember most of them. So get ready to tap your toes, bob your head, chair dance and sing along to some music industry inspired leadership lessons.
Musical Notes Of Leadership
February 17, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:93
| Who doesn't love attending a concert with your favorite musician, band, etc.? The sights, sounds, good times, memories, and of course, the overpriced merchandise and concessions. But have you ever been jamming out mid-concert and had several leadership lessons hit you like an 808 drum? I did during several shows over the past few years and actually remember most of them. So get ready to tap your toes, bob your head, chair dance and sing along to some music industry inspired leadership lessons. |
Rules Of EMS: The Stuff You Only Learn The Hard Way
February 17, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:97
| This course offers a practical and engaging look at essential EMS principles that go beyond textbooks and protocols. Through a series of field-tested “rules,” providers will explore the real-world skills, habits, and mindset necessary for safe, effective, and professional prehospital care. Topics include patient assessment, documentation, communication, pediatric red flags, provider wellness, and more. Blending humor, humility, and high-yield insights, this course is ideal for both new and experienced EMS professionals seeking to strengthen their clinical judgment and operational awareness. |
Rules Of EMS: The Stuff You Only Learn The Hard Way
February 17, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:98
| This course offers a practical and engaging look at essential EMS principles that go beyond textbooks and protocols. Through a series of field-tested “rules,” providers will explore the real-world skills, habits, and mindset necessary for safe, effective, and professional prehospital care. Topics include patient assessment, documentation, communication, pediatric red flags, provider wellness, and more. Blending humor, humility, and high-yield insights, this course is ideal for both new and experienced EMS professionals seeking to strengthen their clinical judgment and operational awareness. |
We're Gonna Pump You Up! VAD Devices And Artificial Hearts
February 17, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:97
| 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. |
You Do Not Want To Promote!
February 17, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:98
| 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. |
You Do Not Want To Promote!
February 17, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:94
| 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. |
Your Legacy, What Are You Leaving Behind?
February 17, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:95
| This engaging and reflective lecture explores the concept of personal and professional legacy within the fire service. Attendees will examine the lasting impact of their actions, attitudes, mentorship, and leadership on their departments, communities, and the next generation of firefighters. Through personal stories, practical examples, and open discussion, participants will be challenged to consider how daily decisions contribute to a lasting legacy, both positively and negatively. Topics will include: * Defining what "legacy" means in the fire service * The role of culture, tradition, and values in shaping your impact * Mentorship and succession planning * Building a reputation of integrity, excellence, and service * Avoiding common pitfalls that can tarnish a legacy This course is ideal for firefighters of all ranks who wish to reflect on their professional journey, re-center their purpose, and intentionally shape the legacy they leave behind. |
Behind The Scenes, Ahead Of The Curve: Strengthening Administrative Excellence In Fire Service
February 17, 2026 13:00 - 17:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:97
| Administrative professionals are the backbone of fire service operations—ensuring compliance, coordination, and continuity in a high-stakes environment. This interactive workshop is designed to support their development with insights, strategies, and shared learning. Participants will engage in focused presentations followed by facilitated roundtable discussions to connect concepts to real-world administrative challenges. Emphasis will be placed on peer learning, practical tools, and collaboration across jurisdictions and roles. |
Engineering Excellence
February 17, 2026 13:00 - 17:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:99
| The professional Driver/Engineer must understand and leverage the ENTIRE water delivery system from start to finish. They must not only understand the “What”, but also the “How” and the “Why” of their equipment, tactics and their position. Driver/Engineers must truly be masters of water delivery and application.They are expected to be intimately familiar with the weapons at their disposal and wield them in a way so as to maximize their impact on the fire scene. The reality is, great driver/engineers are not made by accident. They are systematically built through knowledge, training and experience. This class takes an extensive look at water delivery and application. It delves into the equipment, strategic goals, and tactical deployment models that are essential to success at the pump panel. It examines extensive technical knowledge, hydraulics, pump design, hose and nozzle construction, and how our strategies, tactics, equipment impact our effectiveness on the fireground. If you’re a student of all things ENGINE, this is the class for you! |
The High Performance Ventilation Course
February 17, 2026 13:00 - 17:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:48
| Research shows that more often than not, Health Care providers have trouble manually ventilating patients. In this eye-opening hands-on workshop, Bob shows participants how to ventilate patients by BVM, via Mask, ET tube, and supraglottic airways using state of the art computerized simulators that measure pressures, volumes, and ventilatory rates. You will gain valuable insight, skills and techniques to improve your ventilation ability using this valuable feedback and coaching system. This lab features the tools and techniques to introduce to you the concept of high performance ventilation (HPV) Limited to 36 so that everyone can get time to practice. |
Rule # 1, Cardio: Surviving Life’s Rare Cardiac Diseases
February 17, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:98
| 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 EKGs will be taught and a practical experience will be provided. So come learn why even Zombie fighters need to know Cardio! |
Senior Firefighter, Informal Leader Of The Firehouse
February 17, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:94
| The Senior Firefighter “The Senior Firefighter, informal leadership of the firehouse.” In a firehouse there is formal leadership: Fire Chief; Battalion Chief; Captain; Lieutenant. However, there is the informal leadership in the firehouse, the Senior Man. This class we will discuss how to be the Senior man. Whether you have 2 years or 20, this class will talk about being the informal leader in the firehouse, at the kitchen table or even out for an evening with the Brothers and Sisters. |
1033 (LE) Recertification - Use Of Force/Control Tactics Sustainment/Refresher Training
February 18, 2026 08:00 - 17:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:99
The Use of Force / Defensive Tactics Sustainment Training will be a hands-on update/refresher for sworn law enforcement officers. This course will review previously learned techniques in control tactics, cuffing, and expandable baton. We will also introduce new concepts that can provide officers with skills to enhance their capabilities and overall officer safety. Attendees should bring their duty belt and body armor. No live firearms, ammunition, OC spray or knives please. The program will be delivered off-site at the VA Beach Fire Training Center.
Enrollment Restrictions – Fire Marshals with Police Powers
Cardiac Chameleons: When The EKG Changes In Your Stroke Patient
February 18, 2026 08:00 - 09:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:100
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!
Commanding Alone: Leading The Fireground When You’re All You’ve Got
February 18, 2026 08:00 - 09:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:84
Fireground leadership is often imagined with a full suite of command staff, division supervisors, and support officers coordinating behind the scenes. But reality paints a much different picture for many departments. Increasingly, incident commanders find themselves alone, charged with managing multiple units, high-risk tactics, and life-and-death decisions without the luxury of additional command staff. Whether due to staffing limitations, geographic isolation, or simultaneous incidents, the solo IC is no longer a rare occurrence, it's becoming the norm. Whether or not you have lead incidents before, this course is a practical, experience-based session built for those who may find themselves on the fireground with nothing more than a radio, a whiteboard, and their own experience. Participants will explore how dynamic staffing models, decentralized command, and building a culture of frontline autonomy prior to the incident are the foundation to success. Using real case studies, including NIOSH line-of-duty death reports and near-miss incidents, this course will address the personal, tactical, and organizational demands placed on the solo commander. Whether you’re leading from a buggy, responding from home, or stepping up as an acting officer, this class will equip you with tools to manage chaos with clarity, and command the fireground with confidence, even when you're all you've got.
Commanding Alone: Leading The Fireground When You’re All You’ve Got
February 18, 2026 10:00 - 11:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:93
Fireground leadership is often imagined with a full suite of command staff, division supervisors, and support officers coordinating behind the scenes. But reality paints a much different picture for many departments. Increasingly, incident commanders find themselves alone, charged with managing multiple units, high-risk tactics, and life-and-death decisions without the luxury of additional command staff. Whether due to staffing limitations, geographic isolation, or simultaneous incidents, the solo IC is no longer a rare occurrence, it's becoming the norm. Whether or not you have lead incidents before, this course is a practical, experience-based session built for those who may find themselves on the fireground with nothing more than a radio, a whiteboard, and their own experience. Participants will explore how dynamic staffing models, decentralized command, and building a culture of frontline autonomy prior to the incident are the foundation to success. Using real case studies, including NIOSH line-of-duty death reports and near-miss incidents, this course will address the personal, tactical, and organizational demands placed on the solo commander. Whether you’re leading from a buggy, responding from home, or stepping up as an acting officer, this class will equip you with tools to manage chaos with clarity, and command the fireground with confidence, even when you're all you've got.
Do A Little More: You Owe Them That Much!
February 18, 2026 08:00 - 09:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:96
Improving patient interactions with small and meaning steps for positive outcomes. Focusing on the "little things" that seem insignificant that can drastically improve your patient care.
High Consequence Infectious Diseases: What Every EMS Clinician MUST Know!
February 18, 2026 08:00 - 09:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:97
The COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated that EMS clinicians are at the forefront of detecting and identifying patients with potential emerging infectious diseases. Prehospital clinicians are key components in a health system response to special pathogens of concern. Additionally, keeping prehospital clinicians safe when responding to patients with potential high consequence infectious diseases is necessary to ensure they also don't become infected. This seminar will discuss emerging special pathogens and how they may impact the response to, treatment of, and transport of patients in the prehospital setting. Learners be familiarized with high consequence infectious diseases and the National Special Pathogens System.
High Consequence Infectious Diseases: What Every EMS Clinician MUST Know!
February 18, 2026 10:00 - 11:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:98
The COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated that EMS clinicians are at the forefront of detecting and identifying patients with potential emerging infectious diseases. Prehospital clinicians are key components in a health system response to special pathogens of concern. Additionally, keeping prehospital clinicians safe when responding to patients with potential high consequence infectious diseases is necessary to ensure they also don't become infected. This seminar will discuss emerging special pathogens and how they may impact the response to, treatment of, and transport of patients in the prehospital setting. Learners be familiarized with high consequence infectious diseases and the National Special Pathogens System.
Leadership, Lessons Learned On The Line
February 18, 2026 08:00 - 09:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:90
There are as many leadership theories as there are authors and books. The challenge for most fire service leaders is translating those theories into practice – every day behaviors. This presentation presents a series of practical leadership behaviors designed for the leader or those who aspire to be one. I will identify the leadership practices that I’ve found effective in rising through the fire service ranks all the way through senior executive service in federal service.
Leadership, Lessons Learned On The Line
February 18, 2026 10:00 - 11:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:89
There are as many leadership theories as there are authors and books. The challenge for most fire service leaders is translating those theories into practice – every day behaviors. This presentation presents a series of practical leadership behaviors designed for the leader or those who aspire to be one. I will identify the leadership practices that I’ve found effective in rising through the fire service ranks all the way through senior executive service in federal service.
Leading In Life: From The Front Door To The Bay Floor
February 18, 2026 08:00 - 09:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:93
Most parents want the same thing for their children, success and happiness. Success is often driven by the investment of accountability and consistency when raising, nurturing and teaching your children the ways of the world we live in. The fire service, especially the company officer, sees many parallels to parenting. This course will offer insight into how firefighters can lead from the front door of their home to the front pad of the apparatus bay. Establishing routines, holding individuals accountable for their actions, and investing in personnel are the same things parents of successful children often acknowledge as the recipe for success. This course will help firefighters, company officers, and chief officers lead their departments and generate successful individuals, companies, and departments. All the lessons learned can be used to duplicate the same success at home and within your community. The ideas, concepts, and training in this course are and have been used by the instructor at all levels of fire service, and within the home with a great deal of success. This course, while aimed at fire service leaders, can be attended by spouses, civilians, and anyone else looking to maximize the success of their leadership, but most importantly the success of those they lead.
Leading In Life: From The Front Door To The Bay Floor
February 18, 2026 10:00 - 11:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:93
Most parents want the same thing for their children, success and happiness. Success is often driven by the investment of accountability and consistency when raising, nurturing and teaching your children the ways of the world we live in. The fire service, especially the company officer, sees many parallels to parenting. This course will offer insight into how firefighters can lead from the front door of their home to the front pad of the apparatus bay. Establishing routines, holding individuals accountable for their actions, and investing in personnel are the same things parents of successful children often acknowledge as the recipe for success. This course will help firefighters, company officers, and chief officers lead their departments and generate successful individuals, companies, and departments. All the lessons learned can be used to duplicate the same success at home and within your community. The ideas, concepts, and training in this course are and have been used by the instructor at all levels of fire service, and within the home with a great deal of success. This course, while aimed at fire service leaders, can be attended by spouses, civilians, and anyone else looking to maximize the success of their leadership, but most importantly the success of those they lead.
Nozzle Operations And Victims: A Real Life Hat Dance
February 18, 2026 08:00 - 09:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:100
This course will examine the importance of Engine Company Operations with relation to victim survivability. The Course will present information that will assist all engine firefighters in formulating proper actions to ensure victim survival. The course will utilize research as well as real world experience to ensure the student is prepared for the most chaotic of fire scenes.
Nozzle Operations And Victims: A Real Life Hat Dance
February 18, 2026 10:00 - 11:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:93
This course will examine the importance of Engine Company Operations with relation to victim survivability. The Course will present information that will assist all engine firefighters in formulating proper actions to ensure victim survival. The course will utilize research as well as real world experience to ensure the student is prepared for the most chaotic of fire scenes.
Playing With Fire - Saving The Save
February 18, 2026 08:00 - 09:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:98
This course will examine the importance of Engine Company Operations with relation to victim survivability. The Course will present information that will assist all engine firefighters in formulating proper actions to ensure victim survival. The course will utilize research as well as real world experience to ensure the student is prepared for the most chaotic of fire scenes.
Playing With Fire - Saving The Save
February 18, 2026 10:00 - 11:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:99
The use of Cyanokit and inhalation airway management will be covered in this lecture. Cyanokit has a beneficial use in all EMS/Fire settings, from rural to industrial. The challenge of setting up the Cyanokit appropriately, and knowing how to identify indications for use early is paramount in having a successful infusion/outcome. Whether it is a citizen, or one of our own- BE READY.
The Virginia Trauma System: Case Scenarios Of The System In Action.
February 18, 2026 08:00 - 09:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:98
This course will describe the levels of trauma designation recognized by the Commonwealth of Virginia and provide examples of patient movement across the system from the scene of injury to definitive care.
The Virginia Trauma System: Case Scenarios Of The System In Action.
February 18, 2026 10:00 - 11:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:97
This course will describe the levels of trauma designation recognized by the Commonwealth of Virginia and provide examples of patient movement across the system from the scene of injury to definitive care.
Blocked And Unfriended By My Own Heart: Heart Blocks In The Young
February 18, 2026 10:00 - 11:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:97
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.
Honey Badger Bugles
February 18, 2026 10:00 - 11:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:90
Forging strong chief officers in a dynamic fire service emphasizing the importance of continual professional development in the pursuit of eliminating complacency.
Courage Under Fire Leadership 25 Timeless Leadership Nuggets
February 18, 2026 08:00 - 12:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:89
This session is intended for anyone in today’s fire service, from firefighter up to fire chief, regardless of time on the job or type or size of department. Attendees will be exposed to 25 timeless leadership nuggets that can be used by anyone in today’s fire service, not just fire officers, to ensure they are being the best they can be for those they are fortunate to serve, within the department, within the community, and ultimately at home. Many of these nuggets can be beneficial to one’s personal life, while all can be beneficial on the job, whether at the firehouse or on the fireground. Numerous lessons learned will be shared and discussed in a positive and productive manner so that attendees can leave with information, tips and suggestions they can immediately put into action. Regardless of where we may find ourselves on the organizational chart, each one of us has a leadership responsibility to ensure that we are a highly functioning and contributing team member that is doing the right things for the right reasons.
First Due With A Clue; Essential Functions Of The First Engine And Truck
February 18, 2026 08:00 - 12:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:99
Everyone wants to be First Due to every fire they are dispatched to. But what happens when you are successful at beating everyone there? Do you know what needs to be done? Can you accomplish it all? Nothing is worse than arriving first, only to be beat to the seat by the 2nd due because you were unsure of what needed to be done or how to do it. This course will discuss the necessary tasks of the Engine and the Truck when arriving first due. First Due Engine and Truck operations simply put will make or break the fireground. If operations are efficient and executed well, success is easy. If operations are executed poorly, failure will ensue. The public places their blind trust in us each and every day that we will respond quickly and solve their problem, whatever it may be. This class will build upon the belief that everyone must know every job. The Truck relies on the Engine and the Engine needs the Truck. This class will take that belief and hone it to focus on the basics of Engine work and Truck work. It will mold those basics into a fluent coordination of movements that happen on the fireground. These movements collectively allow us to rescue human life and preserve property, which after all is our primary mission. Engine topics include positioning for success, riding and tool assignments, hoseline selection and deployment for the greatest benefit among others. Truck topics will cover positioning around other apparatus, riding and tool assignments, the 2 team concept and how to consolidate positions when short staffed; we will also cover ladders, forcible entry, ventilation and search procedures.
EMS Simulation Escape Room #1
February 18, 2026 08:00 - 09:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:10
EMS Simulation Escape Room Time Frame: 1 hour sessions Audience: All: Class size limited to 10 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 the "key" to open the box that has the "CD" or "Commonwealth Drug"; 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 "CD." Without the "CD" you are 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.
EMS Simulation Escape Room #2
February 18, 2026 09:15 - 10:15Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:8
EMS Simulation Escape Room Time Frame: 1 hour sessions Audience: All: Class size limited to 10 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 the "key" to open the box that has the "CD" or "Commonwealth Drug"; 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 "CD." Without the "CD" you are 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 prebrief, 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.
EMS Simulation Escape Room #3
February 18, 2026 10:30 - 11:30Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:10
EMS Simulation Escape Room Time Frame: 1 hour sessions Audience: All: Class size limited to 10 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 the "key" to open the box that has the "CD" or "Commonwealth Drug"; 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 "CD." Without the "CD" you are 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 prebrief, 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.
EMS Simulation Escape Room #4
February 18, 2026 13:00 - 14:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:9
EMS Simulation Escape Room Time Frame: 1 hour sessions Audience: All: Class size limited to 10 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 the "key" to open the box that has the "CD" or "Commonwealth Drug"; 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 "CD." Without the "CD" you are 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 prebrief, 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.
EMS Simulation Escape Room #5
February 18, 2026 14:15 - 15:15Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:10
EMS Simulation Escape Room Time Frame: 1 hour sessions Audience: All: Class size limited to 10 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 the "key" to open the box that has the "CD" or "Commonwealth Drug"; 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 "CD." Without the "CD" you are 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 prebrief, 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.
EMS Simulation Escape Room #6
February 18, 2026 15:30 - 16:30Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:10
EMS Simulation Escape Room Time Frame: 1 hour sessions Audience: All: Class size limited to 10 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 the "key" to open the box that has the "CD" or "Commonwealth Drug"; 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 "CD." Without the "CD" you are 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 prebrief, 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.
WHEN BAND AIDS AREN’T ENOUGH: Child Abuse And EMS Providers
February 18, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:93
Child Abuse is one of the most difficult things for anyone to comprehend, especially EMS providers. It is a subject most want to avoid and EMS unfortunately gets exposed to in our careers, but gets little knowledge to treat those affected. Join Rory as he explores this topic in detail and with a light-hearted, positive approach, showing the signs and symptoms, legal ramifications, need for special care for patients and families as well as abuse imposters and resources that will help you tackle this problem professionally to the benefit of yourself and your patient the next time you are called to help a child in need.
AI & The Fire Service
February 18, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:78
Overview on what AI is, how to use AI, how AI is currently being used in the fire service and how it can be further utilized in the fire service, and what to avoid when using AI.
AI & The Fire Service
February 18, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:95
Overview on what AI is, how to use AI, how AI is currently being used in the fire service and how it can be further utilized in the fire service, and what to avoid when using AI.
Becoming Undeniable: A New Look At Recruiting Women Into The Fire Service
February 18, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:96
TCF3, or Twin Cities Female Firefighter Fitness, is a group of women in the fire service that is using physical fitness as a tool to reach women in the community that are looking to become Firefighters. TCF3 hosts monthly workouts and larger Expos to become a resource for these women. This group firmly believe that women belong in the fire service, but refuses to see the standard changed or altered so women can join. Instead, the focus in on helping women rise up to meet and surpass the standard. By tackling the physical aspect of this job, TCF3 believes that we can help women prove that they undeniably belong.
Becoming Undeniable: A New Look At Recruiting Women Into The Fire Service
February 18, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:98
TCF3, or Twin Cities Female Firefighter Fitness, is a group of women in the fire service that is using physical fitness as a tool to reach women in the community that are looking to become Firefighters. TCF3 hosts monthly workouts and larger Expos to become a resource for these women. This group firmly believe that women belong in the fire service, but refuses to see the standard changed or altered so women can join. Instead, the focus in on helping women rise up to meet and surpass the standard. By tackling the physical aspect of this job, TCF3 believes that we can help women prove that they undeniably belong.
Beyond Checkboxes: Why The Fire Service Needs A New Kind Of Leader
February 18, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:88
Today’s fire service doesn’t need more box-checkers—or policies and programs that tie leaders’ hands, stifle growth, and prioritize control over development. It needs bold, authentic leaders who build trust, model integrity, and lead with purpose. This session challenges the outdated leadership habits and poorly designed systems that no longer serve our crews or communities. It introduces a new model built on trust, character, and action. Through real-world examples, honest reflection, and hard-hitting discussion, participants will explore what it takes to lead beyond the checklist—where credibility is earned, not assumed, and where consistency, authenticity, and accountability are non-negotiable. Whether you're a current officer, an aspiring leader, or a seasoned chief, this session will push you to think differently, lead intentionally, and raise the standard for what leadership should look like in the modern fire service.
Beyond Checkboxes: Why The Fire Service Needs A New Kind Of Leader
February 18, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:91
Today’s fire service doesn’t need more box-checkers—or policies and programs that tie leaders’ hands, stifle growth, and prioritize control over development. It needs bold, authentic leaders who build trust, model integrity, and lead with purpose. This session challenges the outdated leadership habits and poorly designed systems that no longer serve our crews or communities. It introduces a new model built on trust, character, and action. Through real-world examples, honest reflection, and hard-hitting discussion, participants will explore what it takes to lead beyond the checklist—where credibility is earned, not assumed, and where consistency, authenticity, and accountability are non-negotiable. Whether you're a current officer, an aspiring leader, or a seasoned chief, this session will push you to think differently, lead intentionally, and raise the standard for what leadership should look like in the modern fire service.
Engine Operations In Multiple Dwellings
February 18, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:88
This class will address the challenges and tactics for an engine company to be successful at fires in multiple dwellings. 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.
Engine Operations In Multiple Dwellings
February 18, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:99
This class will address the challenges and tactics for an engine company to be successful at fires in multiple dwellings. 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.
NERIS: It’s All About The Data!
February 18, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:99
Overview: The fire service has undergone tremendous evolution over the past 25 years—gear, apparatus, tactics, and the workforce have all undergone significant changes. Yet one thing has remained stubbornly static: our national incident reporting system. This session will introduce fire service leaders to NERIS (National Emergency Response Information System) the modern, comprehensive data platform that is set to replace NFIRS. Through an engaging presentation, attendees will explore: • The complexity of the fire chief’s role and the critical need for reliable, real-time data • Why data literacy is now a core leadership competency • NERIS onboarding strategies and timeline for 2025 and beyond • How departments can prepare for this transition—technically and culturally • The value of data-informed decision-making in response, prevention, resource allocation, and organizational leadership Using examples from across the country, the presentation emphasizes that data is no longer optional—it’s the new standard for how fire departments will lead, learn, and improve. Learning Objectives: • Understand the operational and strategic impact of NERIS • Identify the steps necessary for successful onboarding and integration • Learn how to foster a culture of data literacy and confidence within fire departments • Discover how better data leads to better outcomes for both responders and the communities they serve Target Audience: Fire chiefs, company officers, data/reporting personnel, emergency managers, training officers, and anyone responsible for organizational planning or reporting.
NERIS: It’s All About The Data!
February 18, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:95
Overview: The fire service has undergone tremendous evolution over the past 25 years—gear, apparatus, tactics, and the workforce have all undergone significant changes. Yet one thing has remained stubbornly static: our national incident reporting system. This session will introduce fire service leaders to NERIS (National Emergency Response Information System) the modern, comprehensive data platform that is set to replace NFIRS. Through an engaging presentation, attendees will explore: • The complexity of the fire chief’s role and the critical need for reliable, real-time data • Why data literacy is now a core leadership competency • NERIS onboarding strategies and timeline for 2025 and beyond • How departments can prepare for this transition—technically and culturally • The value of data-informed decision-making in response, prevention, resource allocation, and organizational leadership Using examples from across the country, the presentation emphasizes that data is no longer optional—it’s the new standard for how fire departments will lead, learn, and improve. Learning Objectives: • Understand the operational and strategic impact of NERIS • Identify the steps necessary for successful onboarding and integration • Learn how to foster a culture of data literacy and confidence within fire departments • Discover how better data leads to better outcomes for both responders and the communities they serve Target Audience: Fire chiefs, company officers, data/reporting personnel, emergency managers, training officers, and anyone responsible for organizational planning or reporting.
Peds Ready. Are You Ready?
February 18, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:98
This course will review the Emergency Medical Services for Children and Innovation and Improvement Center's recommendations for pediatric readiness in EMS and hospital emergency departments. Case studies of Critically injured children will be used to exemplify the key components of pediatric readiness.
Peds Ready. Are You Ready?
February 18, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:97
This course will review the Emergency Medical Services for Children and Innovation and Improvement Center's recommendations for pediatric readiness in EMS and hospital emergency departments. Case studies of Critically injured children will be used to exemplify the key components of pediatric readiness.
Prehospital Stroke Care
February 18, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:99
Project Focus: Enhancing Prehospital Stroke Care and Hospital Notification Focused on improving prehospital stroke recognition and timely hospital system alerts to optimize patient outcomes. Actively collaborate with Emergency Department physicians and nursing staff to streamline stroke alert processes, reduce door-to-needle times, and strengthen communication between EMS and hospital teams. This initiative supports early intervention and aligns with best practices in stroke care.
Prehospital Stroke Care
February 18, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:96
Project Focus: Enhancing Prehospital Stroke Care and Hospital Notification Focused on improving prehospital stroke recognition and timely hospital system alerts to optimize patient outcomes. Actively collaborate with Emergency Department physicians and nursing staff to streamline stroke alert processes, reduce door-to-needle times, and strengthen communication between EMS and hospital teams. This initiative supports early intervention and aligns with best practices in stroke care.
Street Smart Extrication
February 18, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:95
Vehicle extrication is a puzzle. But it's not a normal puzzle; its a puzzle with constantly changing rules. Manufacturers strive to make the best vehicle on the market so they can make the most sales. They design their vehicles to perform safely when involved in an accident. What they dont care about is the Fire Service 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. Learn maneuvers that can be used to extricate trapped civilians in a tested, timely way.
Street Smart Extrication
February 18, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:90
Vehicle extrication is a puzzle. But it's not a normal puzzle; its a puzzle with constantly changing rules. Manufacturers strive to make the best vehicle on the market so they can make the most sales. They design their vehicles to perform safely when involved in an accident. What they dont care about is the Fire Service 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. Learn maneuvers that can be used to extricate trapped civilians in a tested, timely way.
The Fire And Life Safety Ecosystem Is Under Attack - Impacts And Implications For The Fire Service
February 18, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:99
The Fire and Life Safety Ecosystem was developed by NFPA as the framework for how fire and building safety professionals can present concepts ranging from the government’s role to public education and how they can positively and negatively impact safety in our communities. Each “cog” of this ecosystem is a critical component to preventing mitigating fire risks, and when those components are ignored or compromised, disaster will ensue. Using historic and recent events (Triangle Shirtwaist, Cocoanut Grove, Grenfell Tower, The Ghostship), this program will illustrate how the Fire and Life Safety Ecosystem failures can be avoided. We will also discuss how current threats and weakening of these ecosystem components are impacting the long-term safety of our communities and firefighters. Following this program, attendees will understand how the components of the ecosystem impact the safety of the community and department. They will also be provided with information about how they can be influence and impact the ecosystem to enhance their community engagement and safety. We will also discuss what NFPA resources are available to assist in this influence.
The Fire And Life Safety Ecosystem Is Under Attack - Impacts And Implications For The Fire Service
February 18, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:95
The Fire and Life Safety Ecosystem was developed by NFPA as the framework for how fire and building safety professionals can present concepts ranging from the government’s role to public education and how they can positively and negatively impact safety in our communities. Each “cog” of this ecosystem is a critical component to preventing mitigating fire risks, and when those components are ignored or compromised, disaster will ensue. Using historic and recent events (Triangle Shirtwaist, Cocoanut Grove, Grenfell Tower, The Ghostship), this program will illustrate how the Fire and Life Safety Ecosystem failures can be avoided. We will also discuss how current threats and weakening of these ecosystem components are impacting the long-term safety of our communities and firefighters. Following this program, attendees will understand how the components of the ecosystem impact the safety of the community and department. They will also be provided with information about how they can be influence and impact the ecosystem to enhance their community engagement and safety. We will also discuss what NFPA resources are available to assist in this influence.
The Future Of The Fire And Emergency Services
February 18, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:96
The future of the fire and emergency services is here! And the leaders and organizations best prepared are the ones who will survive and flourish. Look at the population demographics. Pay attention to the methods and materials of building construction. Think about the next generation, artificial intelligence and today’s communications and you’ll quickly realize that many of the leadership challenges we face today are predictable. These challenges are neither good nor bad, right nor wrong – they are. How you choose to deal with these challenges is your choice. You can use these challenges to drive your organization to success, or you can bury your head in the sand and face the consequences of inaction. Either way, change is coming. This program will share the presenter’s predictions for the significant issues the fire and emergency services will face over the next 15 years.
Tips For Successfully Transitioning From Firefighter Or Engineer To Company Officer
February 18, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:99
This session is intended for anyone who is already in or who believes they are ready to take on the role and responsibility of a fire officer (captain, lieutenant, etc.) in 2026 and beyond. Being a fire officer today has never been more challenging and/or demanding. Attendees who are current or future fire officers will find value to the information being shared and discussed. Topics include but are not limited to leadership, management, supervision, social media, teamwork, training, succession planning, mentoring and customer service. Learn from the successes and failures of others (including myself), so you can be the best fire officer you can be for those you are fortunate to serve within your firehouse, your department and your community!
Beyond Check Boxes: Developing The Whole Firefighter
February 18, 2026 13:00 - 17:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:100
In today’s fire service, meeting minimum standards is simply not enough. This session challenges traditional approaches to recruit academies and department training by focusing on the development of the whole firefighter—not just skill acquisition. Attendees will examine how to go beyond tactical proficiencies and build a foundation rooted in character, resilience, values, and wellness from day one. The class explores the importance of creating environments that cultivate long-term success, emphasizing mentorship, leadership modeling, and holistic growth. Participants will leave with actionable ideas, internal and external resources, and strategies to integrate wellness, behavioral health, and professional development into their training programs.
One Last Breath? The Critical Asthma Patient
February 18, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:96
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!
Silver To Gold: Tips For Successfully Moving Into The Chief Officer Ranks
February 18, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:91
This session will assist future and current chief officers (especially battalion chiefs), successfully prepare for the role of shift commander and/or program manager, or virtually any rank of chief officer – up to and including fire chief. Having the weight of the gold badge can be very heavy and overwhelming for many, especially those who have not adequately prepared themselves for the tremendous responsibilities of those wearing the gold badge. Attendees will first be provided with the most important traits of today’s chief officer in any type of department and will then be exposed to several (positive and negative) situations that have occurred around the country, and that they may be faced with as a chief officer. Situations that can make or break their career and/or the careers of others, both positively and negatively. Timely and relevant situations will be shared in a positive and productive manner so attendees can be better prepared for what they will be faced with at some point in their career as a chief officer. We don't get a 2nd chance to make a 1st impression!
Nozzle To Victim: Searching Off The Engine (HOT COURSE)
February 19, 2026 08:00 - 16:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:20
Nozzle to Victim is designed to emphasize the highest priority on the fire ground, the victim. Designed to challenge experienced firefighters as well as engage new firefighters, Nozzle to Victim: Searching off the Engine will get the wheels turning and prepare the first arriving engine company to perform skills that are traditionally designated for ladder companies.
Details:
Max Class Size: 24
Required PPE: Full structural PPE (helmet, hood, gloves, boots, coat, pants) plus water bottle, shower items, towel, and change of clothes.
No River Banks Left: Swiftwater Rescue Mastery (HOT COURSE)
February 19, 2026 08:00 - 16:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:17
Step into the current with this advanced swiftwater rescue course. Designed for seasoned rescuers, the program blends rope systems, rescue craft, and scenario-driven evolutions in fast-moving water. Students will refine decision-making, team coordination, and rescue execution in high-risk aquatic environments.
Details:
• Max Class Size: 20
• Required PPE: Swiftwater PPE (helmet, PFD, water gear – details provided upon registration).
Rural Water Supply: Old Tips And New Tricks (HOT COURSE)
February 19, 2026 08:00 - 16:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:21
Water supply is one of the most critical parts of fire scene operations.What happens when there is no hydrant? This 8-hour class will generate discussion, ideas, and practices that will make water supply efforts a success!Utilizing cutting-edge equipment mixed with tried-and-true practices, you will get direct hands-on practice of the art of moving water from one place to another efficiently. This class will be beneficial to the entire range of driver operators from rural and urban departments alike. Topics covered will include basic principles related to drafting, alternative drafting methods, dump and fill tactics, and overall troubleshooting when something goes South!This exciting new H.O.T. class is guaranteed to add new tools to your Pump Operating toolbox!
Details:
Max Class Size: 28
Required PPE: Helmet and gloves.
Mayday Command (HOT COURSE)
February 19, 2026 08:00 - 16:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:13
Commanding a Mayday event is one of the most stressful challenges an officer may ever face. Fireground survival training focuses on firefighter self-rescue, entanglement, and entrapment hazards, but no training prepares the command officer on how to manage the RIT group or command post. This one-day class equips leaders to manage scaled firefighter emergencies with confidence, applying ICS tools and proven strategies to control high-stress events of varying complexity. Participants will study case examples, practice simulations requiring various resource needs, and learn techniques to anticipate and mitigate Mayday events as the Initial RIT officer, RIT Group Supervisor or Incident Commander.
Details:
Max Class Size: 24
Required PPE: Station uniform (pants and closed-toe shoes).
Women Of Fire & EMS Tactical Day - (HOT COURSE)
February 19, 2026 08:00 - 16:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:32
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.
1031/1033 Recertification - Interview And Interrogation
February 19, 2026 10:00 - 12:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:91
Interviewing, interrogating, and just having a discussion with individuals is critical in the position of investigator or inspector. We need to know what the differences are, and when to use the appropriate methods to get the results we desire.
Open to all attendees
1031/1033 Recertification - State Fire Marshals Office Updates
February 19, 2026 08:00 - 10:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:94
This will be a briefing from the State Fire Marshal and other staff before transitioning to an open forum for attendees.
Open to all attendees.
1033 Recertification - Ignitable Liquids Detection K9 Assisting The Fire Investigation
February 19, 2026 13:00 - 17:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:92
The Ignitable Liquids Detection K9 Assisting the Fire Investigator class will provide attendees with a background on the training and operational parameters of an IGL K9. The training will demonstrate how the K9 works, their capabilities and limitations, and when to ask for K9 assistance. Demonstrations will be conducted by the IGL K9.
Open to all attendees
Fire Chiefs Shakers Forum
February 19, 2026 08:00 - 17:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:40
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.
Health And Safety Forum
February 19, 2026 08:00 - 11:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:97
This program offers an interactive facilitated discussion regarding the latest issues affecting the health, safety and welfare of fire, rescue and EMS personnel across the Commonwealth and beyond. Attendees bring a wide variety of knowledge and experience to this valuable interactive discussion. This is a fantastic forum to learn from each other and share your own experiences with others.
Cancer - A Leadership Responsibility
February 19, 2026 08:00 - 09:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:97
As the fire service continues to experience an unimaginable increase of occupational cancer diagnosis within our ranks, as a supervisor, leader or co-worker you are likely in a place of discomfort in your support efforts. A diagnosis not only effects the individual, but it can also have a profound effect on you professionally and personally. Receiving a diagnosis of cancer is devastating in all rights and should not be compounded by a lack of empathy from a department leader, supervisor or co-workers. Most organizations and supervisors are not prepared for dealing with a firefighter who has received a cancer diagnosis. As a supervisor you simply might not have all the answers needed nor the direction required to provide assistance. This presentation will provide you a basis of what to say and not say, how to react, how to offer support and assistance, as well as discuss the importance of early health screenings.
Cancer - A Leadership Responsibility
February 19, 2026 10:00 - 11:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:99
As the fire service continues to experience an unimaginable increase of occupational cancer diagnosis within our ranks, as a supervisor, leader or co-worker you are likely in a place of discomfort in your support efforts. A diagnosis not only effects the individual, but it can also have a profound effect on you professionally and personally. Receiving a diagnosis of cancer is devastating in all rights and should not be compounded by a lack of empathy from a department leader, supervisor or co-workers. Most organizations and supervisors are not prepared for dealing with a firefighter who has received a cancer diagnosis. As a supervisor you simply might not have all the answers needed nor the direction required to provide assistance. This presentation will provide you a basis of what to say and not say, how to react, how to offer support and assistance, as well as discuss the importance of early health screenings.
Commanding & Controlling The Volunteer Fireground
February 19, 2026 08:00 - 09:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:96
It is no secret that utilizing the incident command system 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.
Commanding & Controlling The Volunteer Fireground
February 19, 2026 10:00 - 11:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:96
It is no secret that utilizing the incident command system 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.
Incorporating Facility Dogs To Enhance Fire Rescue Programs
February 19, 2026 08:00 - 09:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:99
This presentation will introduce the concept of facility dogs in fire rescue programs. Participants will understand the ways in which facility dogs can be used to enhance their work, reduce barriers to people seeking help, improve staff morale and reduce the impact of vicarious trauma. They will also get to meet Hero Dogs Birdie, Loudoun County Fire Rescue's facility dog and hear about the work that he does everyday.
Incorporating Facility Dogs To Enhance Fire Rescue Programs
February 19, 2026 10:00 - 11:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:100
This presentation will introduce the concept of facility dogs in fire rescue programs. Participants will understand the ways in which facility dogs can be used to enhance their work, reduce barriers to people seeking help, improve staff morale and reduce the impact of vicarious trauma. They will also get to meet Hero Dogs Birdie, Loudoun County Fire Rescue's facility dog and hear about the work that he does everyday.
Inside The Firehouse: Understanding The Injuries We Inflict On Each Other
February 19, 2026 08:00 - 09:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:94
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.
Inside The Firehouse: Understanding The Injuries We Inflict On Each Other
February 19, 2026 10:00 - 11:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:97
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.
Successful Short Staffed Engine
February 19, 2026 08:00 - 09:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:96
Short Staffing is becoming the norm across America. Instead of giving up, Fire Departments have created ways to overcome. This course focuses on the Engine and how they have overcome the handcuffs of short staffing. It discusses the responsibilities of the Operator, Officer and Nozzleman individually and as a team to keep and increase effectiveness on the fireground. Topics include mindset, positioning, riding and apparatus assignments, hoseline selection and operation, fire attack principles, crew integrity and other force multipliers.
Successful Short Staffed Engine
February 19, 2026 10:00 - 11:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:95
Short Staffing is becoming the norm across America. Instead of giving up, Fire Departments have created ways to overcome. This course focuses on the Engine and how they have overcome the handcuffs of short staffing. It discusses the responsibilities of the Operator, Officer and Nozzleman individually and as a team to keep and increase effectiveness on the fireground. Topics include mindset, positioning, riding and apparatus assignments, hoseline selection and operation, fire attack principles, crew integrity and other force multipliers.
The Critical Decision Maker: Incident Command Systems: How About A Hybrid Approach?
February 19, 2026 08:00 - 09:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:93
Fire 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 course. 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 small- and large-scale incidents. Then, based on his book on Critical Decision Making, review case study decisions to develop perspectives and how cookie cutter incident command systems can be merged to develop a hybrid approach to incident command and decision making. Problem solving is a journey (from one point to another) and overcoming the obstacles to achieve a successful outcome is not based on “checklists” or protocols. Hybrid methods will ensure the firefighter or command officer are successful on the incident scene to progress from point “A” to point “B.” This workshop provides the fundamental principles that identify the challenges that fire service leader’s encounters when faced with cookie cutter responses to decision that need critical decision making skills.
The Critical Decision Maker: Incident Command Systems: How About A Hybrid Approach?
February 19, 2026 10:00 - 11:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:93
Fire 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 course. 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 small- and large-scale incidents. Then, based on his book on Critical Decision Making, review case study decisions to develop perspectives and how cookie cutter incident command systems can be merged to develop a hybrid approach to incident command and decision making. Problem solving is a journey (from one point to another) and overcoming the obstacles to achieve a successful outcome is not based on “checklists” or protocols. Hybrid methods will ensure the firefighter or command officer are successful on the incident scene to progress from point “A” to point “B.” This workshop provides the fundamental principles that identify the challenges that fire service leader’s encounters when faced with cookie cutter responses to decision that need critical decision making skills.
Unmasking The Imposters: Stroke Mimics
February 19, 2026 08:00 - 09:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:96
Strokes are increasingly easier to recognize in the field as assessment techniques and diagnostic devices improve. However, there are several mimics that can fool us into thinking we are dealing with stroke when it may be something else. We'll explore hypoglycemic issues, Todd's Paralysis, Bell's Palsy and more. This class will take a detailed look into each and how they affect proper assessment of our patients, as well as discuss techniques for assisting the provider with accurate diagnosis.
When The Unexpected Struck: Insights From The 2023 Great Neck Tornado
February 19, 2026 08:00 - 09:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:98
In April 2023, during a major music festival, an EF-3 tornado struck the City of Virginia Beach with little to no warning. The tornado tracked 4.5 miles, reaching 145 mph, impacting 111 residential homes, a state park, and the US Navy’s Fort Story. This case study provides students with a firsthand account of the initial actions, deviation from special event to disaster operations, transition to recovery, and the long-term management of this disaster, giving students a perspective on decisions and actions necessary to manage a significant incident that extends well beyond initial response.
When The Unexpected Struck: Insights From The 2023 Great Neck Tornado
February 19, 2026 10:00 - 11:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:97
In April 2023, during a major music festival, an EF-3 tornado struck the City of Virginia Beach with little to no warning. The tornado tracked 4.5 miles, reaching 145 mph, impacting 111 residential homes, a state park, and the US Navy’s Fort Story. This case study provides students with a firsthand account of the initial actions, deviation from special event to disaster operations, transition to recovery, and the long-term management of this disaster, giving students a perspective on decisions and actions necessary to manage a significant incident that extends well beyond initial response.
You Can’t Build A Great Team Without It: Psychological Safety On The Fireground And In The Firehouse
February 19, 2026 08:00 - 09:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:99
In today’s fire service, effective tactics and technical skills are essential—but they’re not enough. Behind every high-performing crew is a foundation of trust where members feel safe to speak up, share concerns, admit mistakes, and challenge the status quo. That’s psychological safety—and it’s the team ingredient you can’t live without. This interactive session explores how psychological safety directly impacts team performance, decision-making under pressure, and fireground safety. Using real-world examples from the firehouse and the fireground, participants will learn practical strategies to foster trust, reduce conflict, and build a culture where everyone shows up fully and supports each other—especially in high-stakes environments. Whether you’re a company officer, chief, or instructor, you’ll leave with tools to strengthen your crew, lead with clarity, and unlock the full potential of your team.
You Can’t Build A Great Team Without It: Psychological Safety On The Fireground And In The Firehouse
February 19, 2026 10:00 - 11:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:91
In today’s fire service, effective tactics and technical skills are essential—but they’re not enough. Behind every high-performing crew is a foundation of trust where members feel safe to speak up, share concerns, admit mistakes, and challenge the status quo. That’s psychological safety—and it’s the team ingredient you can’t live without. This interactive session explores how psychological safety directly impacts team performance, decision-making under pressure, and fireground safety. Using real-world examples from the firehouse and the fireground, participants will learn practical strategies to foster trust, reduce conflict, and build a culture where everyone shows up fully and supports each other—especially in high-stakes environments. Whether you’re a company officer, chief, or instructor, you’ll leave with tools to strengthen your crew, lead with clarity, and unlock the full potential of your team.
Brick By Brick: Building Resilient Fire Service Culture Through Leadership And Mental Wellness
February 19, 2026 08:00 - 12:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:95
Understanding how poor leadership erodes mental wellness, morale, and operational readiness—and how to rebuild firehouse culture brick by brick through resilience, accountability, and values-based leadership.
Brick By Brick: Building Resilient Fire Service Culture Through Leadership And Mental Wellness
February 19, 2026 13:00 - 17:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:97
Understanding how poor leadership erodes mental wellness, morale, and operational readiness—and how to rebuild firehouse culture brick by brick through resilience, accountability, and values-based leadership.
Introduction To Mechanical Ventilation
February 19, 2026 08:00 - 12:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:19
Participants will be introduced to the use of Mechanical Ventilators as it applies to EMS scene response and inter-facility transports. Time will be spent discussing BVM vs Mechanical Ventilator use, various modes of ventilation with advantages and disadvantages of each mode discussed. Initial settings, adjustments and troubleshooting alarms will also be discussed. Participants will be given hands on time using the Zoll Z Vent ventilator in various scenarios.
Introduction To Mechanical Ventilation
February 19, 2026 13:00 - 17:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:23
Participants will be introduced to the use of Mechanical Ventilators as it applies to EMS scene response and inter-facility transports. Time will be spent discussing BVM vs Mechanical Ventilator use, various modes of ventilation with advantages and disadvantages of each mode discussed. Initial settings, adjustments and troubleshooting alarms will also be discussed. Participants will be given hands on time using the Zoll Z Vent ventilator in various scenarios.
Leveraging Your Why: The Power Of Purpose Driven Leadership
February 19, 2026 08:00 - 12:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:96
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. But, when leaders fail to share their “why” or the purpose behind their actions, it can create confusion, mistrust, and disengagement among their teams. Without a clear understanding of why certain decisions are being made or what the ultimate goal is, employees may struggle to connect with their work on a deeper level and may become less motivated to perform at their best. Additionally, without a clear sense of purpose, employees may feel less invested in the success of the organization and may be more likely to seek out other opportunities that align more closely with their own values and goals. This can lead to increased turnover and difficulty in retaining top talent. Furthermore, failing to share the “why” can also result in misalignment among team members, as different individuals may have different interpretations of what the leader is trying to achieve. This can lead to misunderstandings, conflicts, and a lack of coordinated effort, which can ultimately undermine the success of the team and the organization as a whole. Students will learn practical strategies for articulating your organization’s purpose, connecting employees to a larger sense of meaning and purpose, and aligning your team’s work with your organization’s overall strategy. You will leave this course with a deeper understanding of the power of purpose-driven leadership and the tools you need to communicate your “why” effectively.
Minute Zero: The First-Due Blueprint
February 19, 2026 08:00 - 12:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:99
Minute Zero: The First-Due Blueprint The critical decisions made in the first minutes of an incident shape the entire outcome. Minute Zero is a high-impact, scenario-driven class designed to sharpen the mindset, strategies, and actions of first-due company officers and firefighters. This session dives deep into the blueprint of success for the initial response—size-up, command presence, communications, tactical priorities, and crew coordination. Whether you’re riding the front seat or preparing to, this class delivers practical frameworks, real-world case studies, and tools that ensure your first five minutes set the tone for a successful outcome. Don’t just arrive—arrive ready.
Minute Zero: The First-Due Blueprint
February 19, 2026 13:00 - 17:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:98
Minute Zero: The First-Due Blueprint The critical decisions made in the first minutes of an incident shape the entire outcome. Minute Zero is a high-impact, scenario-driven class designed to sharpen the mindset, strategies, and actions of first-due company officers and firefighters. This session dives deep into the blueprint of success for the initial response—size-up, command presence, communications, tactical priorities, and crew coordination. Whether you’re riding the front seat or preparing to, this class delivers practical frameworks, real-world case studies, and tools that ensure your first five minutes set the tone for a successful outcome. Don’t just arrive—arrive ready.
The Art Of Reading Smoke
February 19, 2026 08:00 - 12:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:94
Today’s structure fires are more dangerous than ever before. Lightweight construction, low-mass synthetics, and open space floorplans have created a perfect storm for rapid, prolific fire growth and extreme behavior. It is imperative for firefighters of all ranks and experience levels to be prepared for this new battle. The Art of Reading Smoke provides the knowledge necessary for first-arriving firefighters, officers, and chief officers to determine the fire’s location, progression, and future “from the seat” before seeing any flame. This knowledge ensures that the correct tactics are implemented for the best possible outcome. Through the extensive use of actual fireground videos, first-time students will develop, and return students will refine their knowledge and skills to become INTELLECTUALLY aggressive firefighters, rather than ARBITRARILY aggressive. The next generation of Reading Smoke brings new research, a new library of videos, and discussion on cancer prevention, tactics and strategies to develop the next generation of aggressive interior firefighting!
The Art Of Reading Smoke
February 19, 2026 13:00 - 17:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:92
Today’s structure fires are more dangerous than ever before. Lightweight construction, low-mass synthetics, and open space floorplans have created a perfect storm for rapid, prolific fire growth and extreme behavior. It is imperative for firefighters of all ranks and experience levels to be prepared for this new battle. The Art of Reading Smoke provides the knowledge necessary for first-arriving firefighters, officers, and chief officers to determine the fire’s location, progression, and future “from the seat” before seeing any flame. This knowledge ensures that the correct tactics are implemented for the best possible outcome. Through the extensive use of actual fireground videos, first-time students will develop, and return students will refine their knowledge and skills to become INTELLECTUALLY aggressive firefighters, rather than ARBITRARILY aggressive. The next generation of Reading Smoke brings new research, a new library of videos, and discussion on cancer prevention, tactics and strategies to develop the next generation of aggressive interior firefighting!
Keep Up The Pace: Complications Of Pacemakers And AICDs For EMS
February 19, 2026 10:00 - 11:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:95
Much hype has been circulated over VAD/LVAD units and their revolutionary ability to keep heart failure patients alive. But what about pacemakers and AICD units? At one time they were just as revolutionary and amazingly they still are! They are far more commonplace and keep many more patients alive yet we are taught very little about them as EMS providers. Would you know what you’re looking at if you were faced with a pacemaker issue in a patient? After this class you will. Rory will tackle many facets of the pacemaker/AICD technology while drawing from personal experiences with his own pacemaker. We’ll talk about their history, designs and different models/brands, as well as pathophysiology of how they work and what kind of complications are commonly seen in patients as well as what you can do to keep them ticking!
AMI With Cardiogenic Shock: Recognition And Management
February 19, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:95
Identify and differentiate between the various forms of shock syndrome, analyze focused assessments and diagnostic tests for patients with shock, apply knowledge and prioritize the interventions when caring for a patient suffering from an AMI and complicated by cardiogenic shock, and explore interrelated concepts utilized in the treatment of shock patients.
AMI With Cardiogenic Shock: Recognition And Management
February 19, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:97
Identify and differentiate between the various forms of shock syndrome, analyze focused assessments and diagnostic tests for patients with shock, apply knowledge and prioritize the interventions when caring for a patient suffering from an AMI and complicated by cardiogenic shock, and explore interrelated concepts utilized in the treatment of shock patients.
Fire & Rescue Response Chaplaincy
February 19, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:95
This course provides a comprehensive overview of Fire & Rescue Response Chaplaincy. Topics include: - Benefits of a Chaplain Response Program o Types of Incidents, including: § Unexpected Deaths § Death Notifications § Line-of-Duty Death (LODD) § Accidents/Critical Injury § Hospital ER Calls § Support of Crew Members - Primary charter and duties of a response chaplain o Station and Community Involvement o Providing Spiritual Support o Boundaries - Building an effective chaplain response program o Recruiting and Retention o Qualifications and Training o Lessons learned - Chaplain Readiness o Duty Shift Planning o Go-Bag o Communication and Reporting - On scene actions and behaviors o Approaching the scene o Incident Command o Knowing your role o Chaplain Ethics o Spiritual Support o Engaging Resources o Confidentiality - Self-Care
Fire & Rescue Response Chaplaincy
February 19, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:100
This course provides a comprehensive overview of Fire & Rescue Response Chaplaincy. Topics include: - Benefits of a Chaplain Response Program o Types of Incidents, including: § Unexpected Deaths § Death Notifications § Line-of-Duty Death (LODD) § Accidents/Critical Injury § Hospital ER Calls § Support of Crew Members - Primary charter and duties of a response chaplain o Station and Community Involvement o Providing Spiritual Support o Boundaries - Building an effective chaplain response program o Recruiting and Retention o Qualifications and Training o Lessons learned - Chaplain Readiness o Duty Shift Planning o Go-Bag o Communication and Reporting - On scene actions and behaviors o Approaching the scene o Incident Command o Knowing your role o Chaplain Ethics o Spiritual Support o Engaging Resources o Confidentiality - Self-Care
First Due Firefighting - Owning The First Five Minutes
February 19, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:90
The first five minutes on the fireground often define the outcome of the entire incident. In this class attendees will learn how to take control of the fireground early, make confident tactical decisions, and lead effectively—no matter the staffing level. This session gives firefighters and company officers a proven framework for making decisions, executing priority tactics, and leading under pressure—especially when you're first due with limited staffing. Whether you are a career, volunteer, or combination, this class brings practical tools you can use the very next shift. This class blends street-smart tactics with solid fundamentals to prepare crews to dominate the first five minutes—and set the incident up for success. The fireground doesn’t wait for the perfect crew or the ideal arrival order.
First Due Firefighting - Owning The First Five Minutes
February 19, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:98
The first five minutes on the fireground often define the outcome of the entire incident. In this class attendees will learn how to take control of the fireground early, make confident tactical decisions, and lead effectively—no matter the staffing level. This session gives firefighters and company officers a proven framework for making decisions, executing priority tactics, and leading under pressure—especially when you're first due with limited staffing. Whether you are a career, volunteer, or combination, this class brings practical tools you can use the very next shift. This class blends street-smart tactics with solid fundamentals to prepare crews to dominate the first five minutes—and set the incident up for success. The fireground doesn’t wait for the perfect crew or the ideal arrival order.
From Fireground To Front Office: How Fire Officers Can Leverage AI Today
February 19, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:94
Artificial Intelligence isn’t coming—it’s already here. From writing fire reports and building training plans to improving decision-making and communication, AI is quickly becoming a powerful tool for fire officers who know how to use it. This session introduces fire service leaders to practical, real-world applications of AI that can immediately enhance leadership, planning, and crew support. We’ll explore how to leverage tools like ChatGPT and other platforms to save time, reduce friction, and make smarter, faster decisions—both on and off the fireground. Whether you're writing a performance review, designing a drill, preparing a size-up simulation, or navigating conflict, AI can support your leadership—if you know how to prompt it. This session is ideal for company officers, chiefs, and trainers who want to stay ahead of the curve without needing to be tech experts.
From Fireground To Front Office: How Fire Officers Can Leverage AI Today
February 19, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:97
Artificial Intelligence isn’t coming—it’s already here. From writing fire reports and building training plans to improving decision-making and communication, AI is quickly becoming a powerful tool for fire officers who know how to use it. This session introduces fire service leaders to practical, real-world applications of AI that can immediately enhance leadership, planning, and crew support. We’ll explore how to leverage tools like ChatGPT and other platforms to save time, reduce friction, and make smarter, faster decisions—both on and off the fireground. Whether you're writing a performance review, designing a drill, preparing a size-up simulation, or navigating conflict, AI can support your leadership—if you know how to prompt it. This session is ideal for company officers, chiefs, and trainers who want to stay ahead of the curve without needing to be tech experts.
High-Speed Low-Drag: The Dynamic Fire Officer
February 19, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:98
This class provides a focused and practical exploration into what it takes to be a dynamic fire officer in today’s evolving fire service. We will dive into key areas of leadership—individual, personnel, firehouse, and fireground—emphasizing how each contributes to effective command and team cohesion. Topics include common leadership pitfalls to avoid and simple, actionable steps to earn respect and build trust. Participants will learn how to deliver the highest quality service to those they lead, serve, and protect, while also fostering strong, productive relationships with fellow team members. Whether you're a new officer or a seasoned leader, this session will provide valuable insights into becoming a respected, impactful leader in the modern fire service.
High-Speed Low-Drag: The Dynamic Fire Officer
February 19, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:93
This class provides a focused and practical exploration into what it takes to be a dynamic fire officer in today’s evolving fire service. We will dive into key areas of leadership—individual, personnel, firehouse, and fireground—emphasizing how each contributes to effective command and team cohesion. Topics include common leadership pitfalls to avoid and simple, actionable steps to earn respect and build trust. Participants will learn how to deliver the highest quality service to those they lead, serve, and protect, while also fostering strong, productive relationships with fellow team members. Whether you're a new officer or a seasoned leader, this session will provide valuable insights into becoming a respected, impactful leader in the modern fire service.
Navigating The Stigma Of Suicide Loss - S.T.I.N.G. It!
February 19, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:96
This course addresses the stigma associated with suicide loss and how to navigate it effectively using the S.T.I.N.G. acronym - Stop, Turn, Ignite, Nurture, Grow.
Navigating The Stigma Of Suicide Loss - S.T.I.N.G. It!
February 19, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:95
This course addresses the stigma associated with suicide loss and how to navigate it effectively using the S.T.I.N.G. acronym - Stop, Turn, Ignite, Nurture, Grow.
Officer Development, With A Side Of Ketchup
February 19, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:96
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.
Officer Development, With A Side Of Ketchup
February 19, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:98
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.
Six Tips For The New Fire Officer
February 19, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:97
Six Tips to Guide the New Fire Officer is a dynamic and interactive presentation designed to provide both new and aspiring fire officers with actionable insights to thrive in their leadership roles. Led by Chief Tom Marchiano, this program emphasizes the importance of continuous learning, realistic goal setting, and the value of mentorship within the fire service. Attendees will explore key principles such as utilizing the knowledge of others, maintaining professionalism, and understanding the various leadership styles that impact team performance. The session also dives into the critical role fire officers play in shaping the future of the fire service by mentoring junior members and fostering a culture of growth. A significant focus is placed on recognizing and addressing burnout, both personally and within the crew, to maintain operational effectiveness and morale. Through real-world examples and open discussion, this presentation creates a space for learning, sharing, and self-reflection. Whether you're newly promoted or preparing for the next step in your fire service career, these six tips offer a valuable foundation to lead with confidence and purpose. Join us as we explore the tools to build strong teams, develop resilient leaders, and support the future of the fire service.
Six Tips For The New Fire Officer
February 19, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:99
Six Tips to Guide the New Fire Officer is a dynamic and interactive presentation designed to provide both new and aspiring fire officers with actionable insights to thrive in their leadership roles. Led by Chief Tom Marchiano, this program emphasizes the importance of continuous learning, realistic goal setting, and the value of mentorship within the fire service. Attendees will explore key principles such as utilizing the knowledge of others, maintaining professionalism, and understanding the various leadership styles that impact team performance. The session also dives into the critical role fire officers play in shaping the future of the fire service by mentoring junior members and fostering a culture of growth. A significant focus is placed on recognizing and addressing burnout, both personally and within the crew, to maintain operational effectiveness and morale. Through real-world examples and open discussion, this presentation creates a space for learning, sharing, and self-reflection. Whether you're newly promoted or preparing for the next step in your fire service career, these six tips offer a valuable foundation to lead with confidence and purpose. Join us as we explore the tools to build strong teams, develop resilient leaders, and support the future of the fire service.
Street Smart Fire Attack
February 19, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:99
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.
Street Smart Fire Attack
February 19, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:94
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 Highs And Lows: Altitude And Diving Injuries
February 19, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:99
This course is designed for the prehospital provider, and will discuss the physiology of both altitude and dive related illness, and will discuss the presentation and prehospital treatment of illness and injuries related to these environmental issues.
The Highs And Lows: Altitude And Diving Injuries
February 19, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:99
This course is designed for the prehospital provider, and will discuss the physiology of both altitude and dive related illness, and will discuss the presentation and prehospital treatment of illness and injuries related to these environmental issues.
"Chief Insights: Navigating Your Path To Promotion"
February 20, 2026 08:00 - 09:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:94
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.
"Chief Insights: Navigating Your Path To Promotion"
February 20, 2026 10:00 - 11:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:97
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.
Changing Gears On Gas Leaks Responses
February 20, 2026 08:00 - 09:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:89
Inside Gas Leaks - perhaps one of the most routine “service calls” the fire department can respond to. Or is it? How does your department handle inside gas leaks? Does human complacency play a factor in responding to this hazardous material emergency? Does your agency run them like a structure fire? Discussion will break down principles, actions, responsibilities and practices for responding to these emergencies and explore poor practices and best practices that can be applied by departments. This topic will consider the impact to both rural or suburban/urban departments, where the challenges may be the same.
In The Heat Of The Moment: The Art And Science Of Decision-Making
February 20, 2026 08:00 - 09:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:96
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 session, participants will delve into a range of topics essential to effective management and decision-making. Utilizing real-world case studies, 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 to 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. LEARNING OBJECTIVES: 1. Understand and utilize the appropriate decision-making models and techniques. 2. Recognize common decision-making biases and how to avoid them. 3. Describe the differences between discretionary and non-discretionary time situations. 4. Understand the benefits and challenges of group decision-making processes. 5. Evaluate the effectiveness of a chosen course of action. Like many other organizations, my midsize suburban career department has struggled with officer development. In 2021, I worked with a cadre of five fire officers to develop our first week-long company officer academy, with the goal of addressing this deficiency. Although our officers are required to hold state Fire Officer I and Instructor I certifications prior to promotion, we recognized that there was a noticeable lack of “soft skills,” including interpersonal dynamics, communication, and decision-making. Our officers had a solid understanding of firefighting tactics and departmental policies, they just lacked the tools (and confidence) to apply them effectively. As we developed and refined the curriculum for what has now become an annual event, open to members of our department and other organizations, we have focused less on education and more on implementation, with decision-making being a key component of both tactical and interpersonal success. This class is designed for incident commanders, company officers, and firefighters who wish to be more effective, both on and off the fireground. Although we typically think of decision-making as an officer’s job, the truth is that the decisions made by personal at all levels affect an organization, especially in the areas of safety, morale, and customer service. The ability to make quick and effective decisions is a career-long pursuit, that relies on a comprehensive knowledge of firefighting tactics and techniques (the art) and an understanding of the most effective ways to apply it (the science). The bad news is, there’s no secret or trick to making good decisions under pressure. The good news is, there are ways to practice or prepare for most situations, and these exercises reinforce the need for strong foundational training among our personnel.
In The Heat Of The Moment: The Art And Science Of Decision-Making
February 20, 2026 10:00 - 11:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:90
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 session, participants will delve into a range of topics essential to effective management and decision-making. Utilizing real-world case studies, 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 to 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. LEARNING OBJECTIVES: 1. Understand and utilize the appropriate decision-making models and techniques. 2. Recognize common decision-making biases and how to avoid them. 3. Describe the differences between discretionary and non-discretionary time situations. 4. Understand the benefits and challenges of group decision-making processes. 5. Evaluate the effectiveness of a chosen course of action. Like many other organizations, my midsize suburban career department has struggled with officer development. In 2021, I worked with a cadre of five fire officers to develop our first week-long company officer academy, with the goal of addressing this deficiency. Although our officers are required to hold state Fire Officer I and Instructor I certifications prior to promotion, we recognized that there was a noticeable lack of “soft skills,” including interpersonal dynamics, communication, and decision-making. Our officers had a solid understanding of firefighting tactics and departmental policies, they just lacked the tools (and confidence) to apply them effectively. As we developed and refined the curriculum for what has now become an annual event, open to members of our department and other organizations, we have focused less on education and more on implementation, with decision-making being a key component of both tactical and interpersonal success. This class is designed for incident commanders, company officers, and firefighters who wish to be more effective, both on and off the fireground. Although we typically think of decision-making as an officer’s job, the truth is that the decisions made by personal at all levels affect an organization, especially in the areas of safety, morale, and customer service. The ability to make quick and effective decisions is a career-long pursuit, that relies on a comprehensive knowledge of firefighting tactics and techniques (the art) and an understanding of the most effective ways to apply it (the science). The bad news is, there’s no secret or trick to making good decisions under pressure. The good news is, there are ways to practice or prepare for most situations, and these exercises reinforce the need for strong foundational training among our personnel.
Influencing Organizational Culture Through Leadership
February 20, 2026 08:00 - 09:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:90
This interactive session will explore organizational culture from the leader's viewpoint. Attendees will discuss the importance of a positive culture in their fire/EMS agency along with assessing the current climate in their own organization. Ultimately, students should walk away with best practices for "moving the needle" towards improved culture in their own agencies.
Influencing Organizational Culture Through Leadership
February 20, 2026 10:00 - 11:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:88
This interactive session will explore organizational culture from the leader's viewpoint. Attendees will discuss the importance of a positive culture in their fire/EMS agency along with assessing the current climate in their own organization. Ultimately, students should walk away with best practices for "moving the needle" towards improved culture in their own agencies.
Leading Through Conflict: Tactical Leadership Lessons For Fireground And Firehouse
February 20, 2026 08:00 - 09:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:98
Conflict is unavoidable—but how leaders handle it determines whether a team grows stronger or fractures under pressure. From heated moments on the fireground to quiet tension in the station, today’s fire officers must lead with clarity, emotional intelligence, and confidence. This session equips current and aspiring leaders with practical, field-tested strategies for navigating conflict in both tactical and relational contexts. Drawing on real-world fire service scenarios, participants will explore the roots of conflict, the psychology behind emotional escalation, and the leadership tools necessary to turn confrontation into collaboration. You’ll learn how to defuse tension, deliver hard messages, and lead through uncertainty—whether on a chaotic scene or during a difficult conversation with a crew member. Designed for company officers, chiefs, and trainers, this session blends command presence with human-centered leadership—because technical skill means little if your team is in turmoil.
Leading Through Conflict: Tactical Leadership Lessons For Fireground And Firehouse
February 20, 2026 10:00 - 11:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:95
Conflict is unavoidable—but how leaders handle it determines whether a team grows stronger or fractures under pressure. From heated moments on the fireground to quiet tension in the station, today’s fire officers must lead with clarity, emotional intelligence, and confidence. This session equips current and aspiring leaders with practical, field-tested strategies for navigating conflict in both tactical and relational contexts. Drawing on real-world fire service scenarios, participants will explore the roots of conflict, the psychology behind emotional escalation, and the leadership tools necessary to turn confrontation into collaboration. You’ll learn how to defuse tension, deliver hard messages, and lead through uncertainty—whether on a chaotic scene or during a difficult conversation with a crew member. Designed for company officers, chiefs, and trainers, this session blends command presence with human-centered leadership—because technical skill means little if your team is in turmoil.
Owning It As A Leader
February 20, 2026 08:00 - 09:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:91
Practicing the Art of Ownership as a Fire Service Leader
The Combination Fire Department: Success Through Leadership
February 20, 2026 08:00 - 09:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:96
Are you a member of a combination of a career fire department? Is your locality considering moving from fully volunteer into a combination system? You’ll want to attend this class, where we’ll examine the means and methods for successfully integrating both the paid and volunteer members into a cohesive unit for timely, professional, and efficient service delivery.
The Combination Fire Department: Success Through Leadership
February 20, 2026 10:00 - 11:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:96
Are you a member of a combination of a career fire department? Is your locality considering moving from fully volunteer into a combination system? You’ll want to attend this class, where we’ll examine the means and methods for successfully integrating both the paid and volunteer members into a cohesive unit for timely, professional, and efficient service delivery.
Virginia Heart Attack Coalition 12 Lead ECG Fundamentals Course: STEMI
February 20, 2026 08:00 - 09:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:96
This course will provide supporting evidence for reasons to obtain an ECG within 10 minutes of patient contact, demonstrate proper 12-lead placement, discuss ECG segments, identify how to determine STEMI ECG Criteria and STEMI Mimics, and describe the pathways prior to hospital arrival for suspected STEMI patients.
Virginia Heart Attack Coalition 12 Lead ECG Fundamentals Course: STEMI
February 20, 2026 10:00 - 11:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:97
This course will provide supporting evidence for reasons to obtain an ECG within 10 minutes of patient contact, demonstrate proper 12-lead placement, discuss ECG segments, identify how to determine STEMI ECG Criteria and STEMI Mimics, and describe the pathways prior to hospital arrival for suspected STEMI patients.
"Help On The Horizon: Building Mental Wellness Support When You Don’t Have A Clinician (Yet)”
February 20, 2026 08:00 - 12:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:95
Not every fire department has access to an in-house clinician—but that doesn’t mean wellness efforts have to wait. This engaging and practical session equips fire service leaders with actionable strategies to support the mental health of their crews, even in the absence of formal behavioral health staff. Participants will learn how to build a foundation of psychological safety, implement peer-driven support systems, and develop partnerships with community resources such as chaplains, crisis teams, and consulting clinicians. The session will also provide a simple framework for identifying clinician partners when the time is right, including how to vet them for fire service cultural competence. Chiefs will leave with ready-to-use tools, including a wellness planning checklist, vetting guide, and “mental health moment” scripts to start the conversation now instead of someday.
"Help On The Horizon: Building Mental Wellness Support When You Don’t Have A Clinician (Yet)”
February 20, 2026 13:00 - 17:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:99
Not every fire department has access to an in-house clinician—but that doesn’t mean wellness efforts have to wait. This engaging and practical session equips fire service leaders with actionable strategies to support the mental health of their crews, even in the absence of formal behavioral health staff. Participants will learn how to build a foundation of psychological safety, implement peer-driven support systems, and develop partnerships with community resources such as chaplains, crisis teams, and consulting clinicians. The session will also provide a simple framework for identifying clinician partners when the time is right, including how to vet them for fire service cultural competence. Chiefs will leave with ready-to-use tools, including a wellness planning checklist, vetting guide, and “mental health moment” scripts to start the conversation now instead of someday.
Leadership And Followership In The Fire Service
February 20, 2026 08:00 - 12:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:97
Across this great nation there is an astronomical number of varying types of emergency response agencies or departments. No matter the size of the agency, department, authority, or district they all require leaders to accomplish mission success. Anyone can complete a rigorous testing process, either written, application based or a combination of both and quickly be assigned or promoted into a leadership position. Whether they are effective or not in their new endeavor is another matter. Through experience and study Major Zach Bruhn has learned that to become a successful leader it takes courage, comprehension, and aptitude to translate leadership theories, practices and principles into effective actions. Unlike many leadership programs that only describe the characteristics, traits and qualities that leaders should possess, this course will delve into what behaviors, motives and philosophies drive all great leaders. “Leadership & Followership in the Fire Service”, combines current and time-tested theories along with explanation of both successful and unsuccessful practices from Major Bruhn’s experiences throughout his 21-year career in the fire service. This class is not merely a collection of theories and abstract concepts, but a distillation of real-world lessons learned through years of hands-on experience. By sharing insights, strategies, and practical advice, this course aims to equip each student with the tools and mindset needed to excel in leadership roles, whether in the fire service or beyond. Dwight D. Eisenhower once stated that, “leadership is the art of getting someone else to do something you want done because he wants to do it.” This momentous task is often much easier said than done. One of the most important factors in becoming an effective leader is earning the respect and trust of your followers or crews. After all, the informal authority to lead is derived through respect and trust. Earning the respect of your followers is no easy task. As with all things, with practice, effort and caring it can be obtained. Fire service leadership extends beyond wielding authority; it encompasses fostering strong interpersonal relationships. Effective communication, teamwork, and conflict resolution are indispensable facets of social skill development. Throughout this revealing 4-to-6-hour class students will gain understanding of how by developing and applying three core leadership competencies they can acquire the ever-elusive respect and trust leaders require to be successful. Firefighters of all ranks and experience levels will walk away with the capability and enhanced understanding of what it will take to apply both leadership and followership skills to their own company, crew, battalion or department both on and off duty.
Mind Of Fire
February 20, 2026 08:00 - 12:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:92
Firefighting demands quick, confident decisions, but what’s really happening in your mind when seconds count? Fire officer and author Kiel Samsing brings together years of field experience and the psychology of decision-making in a dynamic class designed to elevate your decision-making skills under pressure. Dive deep into the art and science of high-stakes decision-making as Samsing shares practical, real-world insights that will reshape how you approach every call. Discover the science and art of decision-making with "Mind of Fire." Attendees will explore how we process information, structured decision-making techniques, bias recognition, and practical application in real-world scenarios. Firefighters will become skilled at managing uncertainty and tempo, leading to faster, more efficient decision-making.
Mission Ready: All-Hazards Project Management For Public Safety Leaders
February 20, 2026 08:00 - 12:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:92
This dynamic course bridges proven All-Hazards planning principles with the structure of traditional project management. Participants will explore the 5 phases of the Waterfall methodology—Initiating, Planning, Executing, Monitoring, and Closing—while learning when to adapt with agility in real-world scenarios. From intake to “go live,” students will gain practical tools to manage scope, schedule, cost, and quality across mission-critical projects. Built for public safety professionals, this hybrid-style course combines instructor guidance with peer collaboration, empowering attendees to confidently lead complex initiatives from concept to closeout.
Surviving The Fireground
February 20, 2026 08:00 - 12:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:95
Mayday Monday is a firefighter survival campaign with a mission of reducing firefighter injury and death on the fireground. This is done through reviewing firefighter line-of-duty-deaths and close calls. In reviewing these tragedies, we at Mayday Monday honor the memory of the member, or members involved, by learning more about their life. Where were they from? What did they do before joining their department? Were they married? Have kids? How long had they been on the job? Then we dive into the incident by reviewing available reports on the fire (or incident) and asking other members of the department. Then we present a firefighter survival skill/drill that was learned through the sacrifice of the firefighter or firefighters. Some of these drills include methods for rescuing firefighters from a basement or below-grade location, negotiating an entanglement hazard, removing a downed firefighter from an above-grade position or becoming more familiar with the SCBA. Incidents reviewed in the workshop include residential fires, commercial building fires, basement fires, highway responses, and gas emergencies. The workshop will provide training to survive the fireground.
The 5-Tool Firefighter: Five Attributes To A Well-Rounded Firefighter
February 20, 2026 08:00 - 12:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:99
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".
The 5-Tool Firefighter: Five Attributes To A Well-Rounded Firefighter
February 20, 2026 13:00 - 17:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:92
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".
Urban Flood Rescue Operations
February 20, 2026 08:00 - 12:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:97
As flooding becomes more frequent and intense, urban rescue teams face growing challenges in rapidly changing environments. This course equips responders with essential strategies for safely managing rescues in flooded streets, neighborhoods, and vehicles. Attendees will gain practical knowledge in scene size-up, water behavior, rescue sequencing, patient contact, vehicle extractions, and night operations. Emphasis is placed on real-world considerations, resource integration, and adapting to dynamic conditions. Ideal for firefighters, rescue technicians, and emergency managers, this course delivers actionable insights for effective and safe flood response.
Urban Flood Rescue Operations
February 20, 2026 13:00 - 17:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:93
As flooding becomes more frequent and intense, urban rescue teams face growing challenges in rapidly changing environments. This course equips responders with essential strategies for safely managing rescues in flooded streets, neighborhoods, and vehicles. Attendees will gain practical knowledge in scene size-up, water behavior, rescue sequencing, patient contact, vehicle extractions, and night operations. Emphasis is placed on real-world considerations, resource integration, and adapting to dynamic conditions. Ideal for firefighters, rescue technicians, and emergency managers, this course delivers actionable insights for effective and safe flood response.
Summer Of '63
February 20, 2026 10:00 - 11:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:88
Command and Leadership Lessons from the Battle of Gettysburg
Water Supply For The Incident Commander
February 20, 2026 10:00 - 11:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:96
Evaluating and applying initial water supply needs on a fire incident are basic principles that are most often addressed by initial apparatus operations and company officers. However, what happens when the fire decides a different path or the initial plan fails? What occurs when the chief officer or incident commander may not have a full grasp on their responsibility to manage water supply as the incident commander? This program will discuss the core element of firefighting and the impacts of various water supply strategies and often overlooked responsibilities for the command level officer, with a focus on ensuring the responsibility to establish, maintain and expand water supply for the incident is a responsibility that rests with the incident commander. We will explore potential practices, tools and resources that may exist for an incident commander to assess their water supply, and explore common fire ground practices in order to ensure water supply is effectively achieved and managed at the command post as the IC takes a look at an expanding or contracting incident.
Presence - Being There
February 20, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:93
Reinforcing the Importance of Being Present when Leading
Leadership Lessons From "Band Of Brothers”
February 20, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:91
This inspiring class presents a unique look at the principles of fire service leadership through the experiences of the 101st Airborne Division’s Easy Company during World War II. Using Easy Company commander Major Richard Winters’ 10 Principles of Leadership, the class discusses a multi-faceted approach to leadership, based on character and leading by example. History shows that leadership is not determined by rank, but by attitude and action. Following the success of the Stephen Ambrose book, Band of Brothers, and the HBO mini-series of the same name, Easy Company’s former commanding officer, Major Richard Winters, co-authored a follow-up book entitled, Beyond Band of Brothers: The War Memoirs of Major Dick Winters. In this book, Winters expanded on his wartime experiences and detailed his philosophy of small- and large-unit leadership. Winters summarized his leadership lessons into 10 Principles of Leadership, which are used as a framework for this class. LEARNING OBJECTIVES: 1. Identify the values that are associated with strong leadership. 2. Describe techniques for building credibility as a leader. 3. Discuss the ways that leadership priorities change at different levels of an organization. 4. Explain how a leader’s actions and attitude can affect morale. 5. Understand the importance of developing, empowering, and supporting personnel. The class begins with an overview of the D-Day invasion and the role of the 101st Airborne Division in the European Campaign. This orientation and the narrative of the class are enhanced by the instructor’s first-hand experiences in Normandy and Belgium as part of a fire service pipes & drums band that participated in the ceremonies surrounding the 75th and 80th Anniversaries of the D-Day invasion in 2019 and 2024. Throughout the presentation, video clips and historical photos are used to illustrate situations where Major Winters and the men of Easy Company were faced with leadership dilemmas, and to examine how they succeeded or failed. The values that guided these decisions are then applied to the fire service, using real-world examples of volunteer and career fire officer behavior. Each of Major Winters’ ten principles is explored, and students are given strategies for applying the lessons learned in their own careers. This class is appropriate for both current and aspiring emergency services officers. NOTE: This class can be effectively delivered in either a 1.75- or 4-hour format. However, the 4-hour version is less of a "presentation" and more of a seminar/workshop, which allows for much better discussion among the students and interaction with the material.
Leadership Lessons From "Band Of Brothers”
February 20, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:95
This inspiring class presents a unique look at the principles of fire service leadership through the experiences of the 101st Airborne Division’s Easy Company during World War II. Using Easy Company commander Major Richard Winters’ 10 Principles of Leadership, the class discusses a multi-faceted approach to leadership, based on character and leading by example. History shows that leadership is not determined by rank, but by attitude and action. Following the success of the Stephen Ambrose book, Band of Brothers, and the HBO mini-series of the same name, Easy Company’s former commanding officer, Major Richard Winters, co-authored a follow-up book entitled, Beyond Band of Brothers: The War Memoirs of Major Dick Winters. In this book, Winters expanded on his wartime experiences and detailed his philosophy of small- and large-unit leadership. Winters summarized his leadership lessons into 10 Principles of Leadership, which are used as a framework for this class. LEARNING OBJECTIVES: 1. Identify the values that are associated with strong leadership. 2. Describe techniques for building credibility as a leader. 3. Discuss the ways that leadership priorities change at different levels of an organization. 4. Explain how a leader’s actions and attitude can affect morale. 5. Understand the importance of developing, empowering, and supporting personnel. The class begins with an overview of the D-Day invasion and the role of the 101st Airborne Division in the European Campaign. This orientation and the narrative of the class are enhanced by the instructor’s first-hand experiences in Normandy and Belgium as part of a fire service pipes & drums band that participated in the ceremonies surrounding the 75th and 80th Anniversaries of the D-Day invasion in 2019 and 2024. Throughout the presentation, video clips and historical photos are used to illustrate situations where Major Winters and the men of Easy Company were faced with leadership dilemmas, and to examine how they succeeded or failed. The values that guided these decisions are then applied to the fire service, using real-world examples of volunteer and career fire officer behavior. Each of Major Winters’ ten principles is explored, and students are given strategies for applying the lessons learned in their own careers. This class is appropriate for both current and aspiring emergency services officers. NOTE: This class can be effectively delivered in either a 1.75- or 4-hour format. However, the 4-hour version is less of a "presentation" and more of a seminar/workshop, which allows for much better discussion among the students and interaction with the material.
AI Trainer: How To Build Your Own Fireground Simulation Tools
February 20, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:93
Fireground simulations are critical for building confident, competent officers—but building high-quality training scenarios can be time-consuming, repetitive, and limited by time or staff. Enter AI. In this innovative 1.75-hour session, participants will learn how to use tools like ChatGPT and other AI platforms to design dynamic, customizable fireground simulations for command training, officer development, and crew drills. Whether you're a training officer, instructor, or chief, this session will walk you through how to generate scenarios with variable complexity, realistic radio traffic, benchmark triggers, and decision-based branching—without starting from scratch each time. You'll leave with the skills to create on-demand simulations for residential, commercial, or multi-alarm incidents that reflect modern fire science, UL/FSRI principles, and your own SOPs—complete with size-ups, assignments, Maydays, and curveballs. The future of fire command training is here—and you can build it yourself.
AI Trainer: How To Build Your Own Fireground Simulation Tools
February 20, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:97
Fireground simulations are critical for building confident, competent officers—but building high-quality training scenarios can be time-consuming, repetitive, and limited by time or staff. Enter AI. In this innovative 1.75-hour session, participants will learn how to use tools like ChatGPT and other AI platforms to design dynamic, customizable fireground simulations for command training, officer development, and crew drills. Whether you're a training officer, instructor, or chief, this session will walk you through how to generate scenarios with variable complexity, realistic radio traffic, benchmark triggers, and decision-based branching—without starting from scratch each time. You'll leave with the skills to create on-demand simulations for residential, commercial, or multi-alarm incidents that reflect modern fire science, UL/FSRI principles, and your own SOPs—complete with size-ups, assignments, Maydays, and curveballs. The future of fire command training is here—and you can build it yourself.
Drones In Public Safety
February 20, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:95
This workshop will cover the different uses of drones in public safety, such as structure fires, wild land fires, hazmat , incidents, search and rescue and many more.
Drones In Public Safety
February 20, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:97
This workshop will cover the different uses of drones in public safety, such as structure fires, wild land fires, hazmat , incidents, search and rescue and many more.
Mayday Monday: Fighting And Surviving The Commercial Building Fire.
February 20, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:91
Mayday Monday is a firefighter survival campaign. The goal is to provide tips and techniques to survive the fireground. This includes methods for personal survival and firefighter rescue, fitness and other healthy tips, and firefighting strategies and tactics that will help all or our members to come home. This session will focus on fighting and surviving commercial building fires. Fires in these structures pose unique challenges not seen in residential buildings. Add to that the infrequency of responding to fires in commercial buildings and the risk to firefighters increases. Using new research and our experience, the class will look at risk management principles and tactics we can use to reduce the risk. The class will present lessons learned from previous fires that can be applied to the incident commander all the way to the nozzleman.
Mayday Monday: Fighting And Surviving The Basement Fire.
February 20, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:93
Mayday Monday is a firefighter survival campaign. The goal is to provide tips and techniques to survive the fireground. This includes methods for personal survival and firefighter rescue, fitness and other healthy tips, and firefighting strategies and tactics that will help all or our members to come home. This session will focus on fighting and surviving the basement fire. In spite of new research and bad experiences in these fires, we continue to see firefighters get injured and/or die while engaged in a basement firefight. This class will look at risk management principles and tactics we can use to reduce the risk. The class will present lessons learned from several case studies that can be applied to the incident commander all the way to the nozzleman.
Igniting Engagement: Volunteer Fundraising And Member Engagement
February 20, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:96
This session is designed to help volunteer fire departments enhance their fundraising efforts while increasing internal participation. With limited resources and growing demands, volunteer departments often face challenges in supplementing funding and engaging members outside of emergency response. This session will provide volunteer fire service leaders with actionable strategies to plan successful fundraising events while fostering a stronger, more involved membership base.
Scattered, Smothered, And Covered: Leadership Lessons From The House That Never Closes
February 20, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:93
In the fire service and EMS, just like at Waffle House, the lights are always on—and leadership doesn’t stop when the sun goes down. This dynamic session draws powerful, practical leadership lessons from one of America’s most iconic 24/7 operations. Whether you're a chief officer, company officer, an FTO, or aspiring leader, you’ll recognize the parallels between late-night short-order chaos and the demands of leading in fire and EMS. Through a mix of humor, storytelling, and hard-earned lessons, we’ll explore how consistency, team empowerment, resilience, and real-time decision-making shape the culture of high-performing crews. Learn how to lead from the floor (not the office), respond when everything’s on fire—literally or figuratively—and build a team that thrives in the toughest conditions. If you’ve ever felt like your shift never ends, your crew is stretched thin, and your role is more about managing crises than checking boxes, this session is for you. Because in public safety, just like at the House That Never Closes, the next call could come at any moment—and how you lead will make all the difference.
Leadership Lessons From The El Faro: Navigating Crisis In Emergency Services
February 20, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:96
When the SS El Faro departed port in 2015 and sailed straight into Hurricane Joaquin, it became one of the deadliest maritime disasters in modern U.S. history—and one of the clearest examples of leadership failure under pressure. While the El Faro was a cargo ship, the lessons from its tragic final voyage resonate deeply within the fire and EMS services. This session uses the real-life story of the El Faro to explore how poor decision-making, outdated information, ignored frontline voices, and a failure to adapt to rapidly changing conditions led to a catastrophic outcome. Through gripping storytelling, voice recordings, and real-world leadership parallels, we’ll dissect this incident to uncover what emergency service leaders can—and must—do differently. Attendees will examine how siloed thinking, unchecked hierarchy, and risk mismanagement can exist in firehouses, command posts, and EMS systems just as easily as on the open sea. More importantly, we’ll focus on how to prevent these failures—by fostering psychological safety, listening to your crew, improving situational awareness, and learning to make clear decisions when everything is at stake. Whether you lead a volunteer company or a major metropolitan system, this session will challenge your assumptions, ignite self-reflection, and provide actionable tools to lead through the next storm—literal or figurative. Because in fire and EMS, just like on the bridge of a ship, leadership doesn’t just chart the course—it determines whether your crew makes it home.
STEMI Metrics: Interpreting Performance Outcomes
February 20, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:99
Describe Early Heart Attack Care (EHAC), define STEMI care metrics, Apply definitions for abstraction and analysis, interpret performance outcomes based on STEMI Metrics of Care, and discuss how to apply analytics to promote process improvements (QAPI).
STEMI Metrics: Interpreting Performance Outcomes
February 20, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:100
Describe Early Heart Attack Care (EHAC), define STEMI care metrics, Apply definitions for abstraction and analysis, interpret performance outcomes based on STEMI Metrics of Care, and discuss how to apply analytics to promote process improvements (QAPI).
The Stability Equation: 7 Pillars For A More Balanced Life In Public Safety
February 20, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:98
Long nights, heavy calls, and the invisible weight of trauma are familiar to anyone in public safety. After a life-altering panic attack, I found myself in the same place many first responders land—but few talk about: exhausted, anxious, and uncertain how to move forward. That moment sparked a personal journey through grief, PTSD, depression, and healing. I dove into research, sought medical support, and began to rebuild using what became The Stability Equation—a practical framework for restoring balance in the chaos. In this session, I’ll share how I created and lived through the 7 Pillars for a More Balanced Life—taking ownership of my path, practicing mindfulness to manage anxiety, using movement to reconnect mind and body, setting boundaries to protect energy, building meaningful human connection, improving sleep hygiene for recovery, and ultimately restoring my faith. Each pillar offers a relatable, actionable approach tailored for those in fire, EMS, and public safety roles. Attendees will leave with tools they can use right away to reset, recover, and lead themselves and others with strength and purpose.
The Stability Equation: 7 Pillars For A More Balanced Life In Public Safety
February 20, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:97
Long nights, heavy calls, and the invisible weight of trauma are familiar to anyone in public safety. After a life-altering panic attack, I found myself in the same place many first responders land—but few talk about: exhausted, anxious, and uncertain how to move forward. That moment sparked a personal journey through grief, PTSD, depression, and healing. I dove into research, sought medical support, and began to rebuild using what became The Stability Equation—a practical framework for restoring balance in the chaos. In this session, I’ll share how I created and lived through the 7 Pillars for a More Balanced Life—taking ownership of my path, practicing mindfulness to manage anxiety, using movement to reconnect mind and body, setting boundaries to protect energy, building meaningful human connection, improving sleep hygiene for recovery, and ultimately restoring my faith. Each pillar offers a relatable, actionable approach tailored for those in fire, EMS, and public safety roles. Attendees will leave with tools they can use right away to reset, recover, and lead themselves and others with strength and purpose.
The Three C’s Of Leadership: Commitment, Competency, And Compassion
February 20, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:92
In a time when fire service leadership is under increasing pressure to perform, adapt, and inspire, this 90-minute session delivers a practical and powerful framework built on the three pillars of effective leadership: Commitment to the mission, Competency aligned with your role, and Compassion for your people and community. Designed for fire officers at every level, this presentation blends real-world experience with core leadership principles to help you strengthen your impact back home. Attendees will explore critical attributes like humility, listening, and enthusiasm—elements that define not just what we do, but how we lead. Through actionable takeaways, recommended readings, and lessons learned over a career in the fire service, you'll leave with tools to engage your teams, sharpen your effectiveness, and lead with heart. Whether you’re a seasoned chief or a newly promoted officer, this session delivers leadership you can live out—and pass on.
The Three C’s Of Leadership: Commitment, Competency, And Compassion
February 20, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:90
In a time when fire service leadership is under increasing pressure to perform, adapt, and inspire, this 90-minute session delivers a practical and powerful framework built on the three pillars of effective leadership: Commitment to the mission, Competency aligned with your role, and Compassion for your people and community. Designed for fire officers at every level, this presentation blends real-world experience with core leadership principles to help you strengthen your impact back home. Attendees will explore critical attributes like humility, listening, and enthusiasm—elements that define not just what we do, but how we lead. Through actionable takeaways, recommended readings, and lessons learned over a career in the fire service, you'll leave with tools to engage your teams, sharpen your effectiveness, and lead with heart. Whether you’re a seasoned chief or a newly promoted officer, this session delivers leadership you can live out—and pass on.
Challenging Conventional RIT- An Incident Commanders Perspective
February 20, 2026 13:00 - 17:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:97
The RIT, undoubtedly critical when a rapid response is needed, but is the modern fire ground using them effectively? This topic will explore the basic function of RIT, the RIT crew or group, and its role and responsibility is ICS. Leveraging data and fire ground priorities we will explore methodologies that can be used to minimize duplicative efforts and effect a safer proactive fire ground. Session will include interactive scenarios with student to explore tools and functions of the accountability officer, Tactical Officer, and RIT Group supervisor roles in ICS. Big or small there’s a discussion point for your department.
Mid-Rise Operations With Limited Staffing
February 20, 2026 13:00 - 17:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:92
Mid-Rise Operations with Limited Staffing prepares firefighters to arrive first on scene at a Mid or Wide-Rise structure fires. This 4-hour classroom presentation is designed for members of departments that operate with a small number of personnel and limited apparatus typing as well as members of larger departments. Modern Mid-Rise structures such as NFPA220 Type IIIA four and five story hotels and apartments present a dangerous and dynamic fire ground. It is not uncommon to find these types of structures popping up along highways and interstates in rural and urban environments across our nation in fire protection districts and municipalities with limited available resources. Fires in these types of structures come with a high life safety risk and present unique building construction concerns. Lessons learned encompass topics ranging from building construction, protection system types, size-up, series pumping and multiple FDC and water supply options. The course examines a multitude of interior and exterior tactics, to include prioritizing strategies such as fire attack, search & evacuation, stairwell search groups and integration of ICS all for success in these high-risk low-occurrence fires. Class prepares students to handle the array of possible standpipe and FDC pumping scenarios that are common among medium rise building fires. The course includes a short in-classroom hands-on-training display which demonstrates multiple hose-load options such as the Denver, New York and Coil methods and how these hose-loads operate regarding both hallway and stairwell deployments. Additional training includes standpipe connection, by-pass options, fire pump and alternative water supply options which can be force multipliers in these distinctive structures. This course will outline the strategic goals and tactical objectives to be taken along with the need for solid decision making with a limited amount of staffing to ensure that firefighters will respond, quickly, safely and meet the needs of the citizens they serve.
Igniting The Future: Integrating Volunteer Emergency Services Into Rural School Communities
February 20, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:97
Many communities rely on volunteer Fire and EMS providers, yet recruiting and retaining members in these communities are becoming increasingly difficuly. One underutilized avenue is local school systems. This is where future volunteers can be engaged and inspired. This session will address logistical concerns and offer a blueprint for launching or improving your community and school engagement initiatives. Attendees will leave with a renewed vision for how youth engagement can ensure the long-term health of volunteer emergency services.
Its All About The Family
February 20, 2026 15:00 - 16:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:98
The Importance of the Family in the Fire Service and why we need to preserve it as Leaders.
In Their Darkest Hour: Guiding Families Through Loss With Empathy And Clarity
February 21, 2026 08:00 - 09:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:91
Death notification is one of the most emotionally difficult and least-trained responsibilities we face in fire and EMS. Whether it’s on a front porch in the middle of the night, at the bedside in a hospital, or on the roadside after a tragic accident, the moment we deliver this life-altering news becomes a defining point for the families we serve—and for us as providers. This session tackles a skill that is too often overlooked in our training but has a lasting impact on public trust, family healing, and provider mental health. We’ll explore how to deliver a death notification with empathy, honesty, and professionalism—without making promises we can’t keep or creating confusion during an already traumatic moment. You'll learn how to navigate the conversation with compassion, answer difficult questions with clarity, and maintain your lane in multi-agency responses involving law enforcement or medical examiners. But this session isn’t just about the words. It’s about protecting your own emotional well-being in the aftermath. We’ll talk about the toll these moments take, the weight we carry home, and the importance of peer support, debriefing, and resilience in the face of repeated exposure to grief. Firefighters, medics, and officers alike will leave with tangible tools to communicate more effectively during the worst moments, support families without overstepping, and lead with humanity—because in their darkest hour, how we show up can define how they remember us forever.
It’s A Different World: Leaders In The Volunteer Fire Service
February 21, 2026 08:00 - 09:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:97
The most cited problem in the volunteer fire service is poor leadership. Yet, our officer development programs and classes rarely focus on the unique challenges of leading a group of unpaid individuals who stepped forward to do one of the most challenging jobs on earth. This presentation will address this deficit by examining why the volunteer fire service needs better leaders, the challenges of leading a volunteer fire department, traits of good (and bad) volunteer leadership, and how individuals can change their leadership style to better serve in a volunteer organization. With a focus on retaining and recruiting volunteers, this course will help participants improve their leadership skills to better their departments.
It’s A Different World: Leaders In The Volunteer Fire Service
February 21, 2026 10:00 - 11:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:99
The most cited problem in the volunteer fire service is poor leadership. Yet, our officer development programs and classes rarely focus on the unique challenges of leading a group of unpaid individuals who stepped forward to do one of the most challenging jobs on earth. This presentation will address this deficit by examining why the volunteer fire service needs better leaders, the challenges of leading a volunteer fire department, traits of good (and bad) volunteer leadership, and how individuals can change their leadership style to better serve in a volunteer organization. With a focus on retaining and recruiting volunteers, this course will help participants improve their leadership skills to better their departments.
Be Still My Heart: Recognizing And Treating Cardiac Emergencies In The Pregnant Patient
February 21, 2026 08:00 - 09:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:95
This specialized course focuses on the unique challenges and considerations involved in identifying and managing cardiac emergencies in pregnant patients. EMS providers and healthcare professionals will gain a comprehensive understanding of the physiological changes during pregnancy that impact cardiovascular function, and how these changes can mask or mimic cardiac conditions. Participants will learn to recognize the signs and symptoms of cardiac distress in pregnant women, apply appropriate treatment protocols, and adapt resuscitative efforts to protect both maternal and fetal well-being. The course will also explore contributing risk factors and discuss strategies for early identification and potential prevention of cardiac events in this high-risk population. Topics Include: • Physiological changes in pregnancy and their impact on cardiac assessment • Common and uncommon cardiac emergencies during pregnancy • Prehospital and clinical management strategies • Modifications to CPR and advanced life support in pregnant patients • Risk factors and preventive care considerations • Interdisciplinary communication and transport decisions
Be Still My Heart: Recognizing And Treating Cardiac Emergencies In The Pregnant Patient
February 21, 2026 10:00 - 11:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:100
This specialized course focuses on the unique challenges and considerations involved in identifying and managing cardiac emergencies in pregnant patients. EMS providers and healthcare professionals will gain a comprehensive understanding of the physiological changes during pregnancy that impact cardiovascular function, and how these changes can mask or mimic cardiac conditions. Participants will learn to recognize the signs and symptoms of cardiac distress in pregnant women, apply appropriate treatment protocols, and adapt resuscitative efforts to protect both maternal and fetal well-being. The course will also explore contributing risk factors and discuss strategies for early identification and potential prevention of cardiac events in this high-risk population. Topics Include: • Physiological changes in pregnancy and their impact on cardiac assessment • Common and uncommon cardiac emergencies during pregnancy • Prehospital and clinical management strategies • Modifications to CPR and advanced life support in pregnant patients • Risk factors and preventive care considerations • Interdisciplinary communication and transport decisions
Mobile Homes: Small House - Big Challenge
February 21, 2026 08:00 - 09:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:96
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. NOTE: This class can be delivered in either a 1.75- or 4-hour format. The shorter version is essentially my FDIC presentation. The 4-hour class allows for a more in-depth look at specific concepts and fire incidents through the use of photos and video. Both versions are effective and engaging and can be presented at the same event.
Mobile Homes: Small House - Big Challenge
February 21, 2026 10:00 - 11:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:97
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. NOTE: This class can be delivered in either a 1.75- or 4-hour format. The shorter version is essentially my FDIC presentation. The 4-hour class allows for a more in-depth look at specific concepts and fire incidents through the use of photos and video. Both versions are effective and engaging and can be presented at the same event.
Protecting Our History
February 21, 2026 08:00 - 09:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:99
A look at the challenges of protecting historic properties and the responsibility that comes with it.
They Didn't Teach This In Officer Class
February 21, 2026 08:00 - 09:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:93
| 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 making it 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. The goal now is to share these simple steps with anyone willing to listen to them so that the next generation of leaders don’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. |
Crew Resources Management Awareness
February 21, 2026 08:00 - 12:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:96
Crew Resource Management Awareness Course Description: 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 devasting outcomes.
Strategies And Tactics For Employee Fires
February 21, 2026 08:00 - 12:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:97
Most Fire Officers and Chiefs will fight more fires in the station than they will out in the streets. This program will utilize basic fireground terminology to break down and make sense of employee coaching, counseling, and disciplinary procedures. It will apply such firefighter knowledge as conducting a size up, which will include looking at the building construction (How the employee is built as well as the condition of the building), the extent and location of the fire (the problem) and doing a risk assessment. Once these observations are considered then a strategy can be determined, and tactics can be put in place. We will then utilize the acronym RECEO to determine what tactics to use when dealing with a problem employee. We will also focus on using Fire Prevention, Education, Pre-Planning and Fire Behavior Recognition Training (Reading Smoke) to prevent fires (problems) and keep them small. We will also compare hostile fire events such as rapid fire progression, flashover, backdraft and smoke explosions to the more difficult personnel issues.
Training That Lights A Fire Under Our Future Firefighters: How To Inspire, Capture Attention, And Create Trainings Programs That Reach Todays Learners.
February 21, 2026 08:00 - 12:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:98
This Course will take your training out of the box so to speak and ignite a fire under it! Today's learners have a shorter attention span and we must change the way we teach so that they learn. 200 years of tradition will no longer cut it if we want productive safe firefighters. We need to learn to integrate creativity, some out of the box thinking, and a little more excitement into our training programs. I will help you learn how to overcome new students fears and anxieties and what can be worked through and what might not be. This program can also help you understand how to employ the crawl-walk-run method into your training drills to make them more effective and for longer retention of the skill information taught. It will give you real ideas on how to correlate everyday textbook information into classroom activities that lead to better retention and retainment of information. Finally, we will discuss the differences between learning a skill and employing that skill in real scenarios. I hope to take your training program to the next level with my creative methods, out of the box thinking, and lessons I've learned from working with such a broad range of learners. Let me help ignite a fire under your training program!
Utilizing Modern Fire Research To Maximize Fire Attack & Occupant Survivability
February 21, 2026 08:00 - 12:00Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:97
This 4-hour lecture provides a summary of the recent three-part UL/NIST Study: Impact of Fire Attack Utilizing Interior & Exterior Streams on Firefighter Safety & Occupant Survivability. Topics such as considerations for search, victim survivability data and interior fire attack methodologies and exterior water application will be discussed from the latest three-part Underwriters Laboratories Firefighter Safety Research Institute study. The Underwriters Laboratory (U.L.) paired with the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to conduct research on occupant survivability, firefighting tactics, both interior and exterior in residential structures along with hose stream effectiveness as it relates to air entrainment and water mapping. 46% of annual home fire fatalities occur purely from smoke inhalation alone, not burns. Statistics such as these stress the need for fire departments to recognize where their greatest opportunity for victim survivability occurs in modern residential structure fires. For fire departments to maximize occupant survivability within structure fires, it is essential to adapt scientifically backed methods for development and implementation of rapid, properly placed, and professionally executed searches along with skillful interior and exterior fire attack tactics. This lecture provides firefighters with a better understanding of how interior water application techniques can be implemented to control flow paths and increase occupant survivability and firefighter safety at residential structure fires. This is accomplished through understanding the principles of Water Mapping, Air Entrainment and Full-Scale Live Burn data analysis on victim survival and interior fire conditions. During these experiments residential live burn structure fires in over 26 different situations and variables such as non-ventilated rooms, single ventilated rooms and multiple ventilated room scenarios were completed. During these multiple scenarios, variables such as different interior fire attack methods, smoothbore, combination fog nozzle and door control all were tested on their effectiveness on victim survivability and firefighter safety. Massive amounts of data were collected on a multitude of variables ranging from toxic gas and thermal exposure limits for occupants, modern furniture burn rates and interior gas velocity changes from assorted fire attack methods. The UL, NIST, FSRI and a panel of fire service experts from departments around the nation then utilized this data to formulate 18 tactical priorities to increase victim survivability and firefighter safety during interior and exterior fire ground operations. This lecture will present a comprehensive systematic summary of the victim survivability data and suggested interior fire attack methods.
Building Your Replacement
February 21, 2026 10:00 - 11:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:93
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. 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.
Changing Perception Through Storytelling
February 21, 2026 10:00 - 11:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:97
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. So often we talk about mistakes made in communications. We focus on the negative aspects and how to avoid them. This presentation focuses on the positives and how to build relationships and trust that will help you when something negative occurs. Bad things happen and mistakes happen, no matter how many policies you create or how much you train. Building a positive perception internally and externally can help give your organization the benefit of the doubt. It can help make it easier to get back to a positive place with your community, your local government officials, and your internal members. It will also help with your recruitment and retention efforts.
It’s Just A Lift Assist: The Hidden Risks Of Complacency In EMS And Fire Calls
February 21, 2026 10:00 - 11:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:91
“I thought it was just another call.” That’s the sentence too many EMS and fire professionals utter after an injury, a missed diagnosis, or a career-altering mistake. This session tackles one of the most dangerous threats to responder safety and patient care: complacency. From lift assists and welfare checks to minor falls and “routine” medical calls, we’ve all let our guard down when the stakes didn’t seem high. But these are the exact moments where risk hides in plain sight—and where our training, habits, and decision-making are put to the test. Through real-world case studies, audience polling, and practical discussion, we’ll expose the hidden dangers of low-acuity calls and explore how complacency impacts scene safety, provider injury rates, liability, documentation quality, and patient outcomes. We’ll also look at how easily a seemingly minor call can turn into a sentinel event, not just for the patient—but for your career or agency. Whether you’re an EMT, firefighter, officer, or administrator, this session offers tangible strategies to sharpen awareness, strengthen assessment practices, and reinforce a culture of vigilance. Because in fire and EMS, the most dangerous call isn't always the big one—it’s the one we think we’ve seen a hundred times. The next “just a lift assist” might be the call that defines your shift—make sure you’re ready for it.
Movie Night
February 21, 2026 10:00 - 11:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:90
Using Movies as an Out of the Box Leadership Training Tool
Unplugged Round II: Perspectives On The Fire Service... Ask Anything - No Holds Barred!
February 21, 2026 10:00 - 11:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:93
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!
Unplugged Round II: Perspectives On The Fire Service... Ask Anything - No Holds Barred!
February 21, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:90
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!
All Choked Up: Handling Strangulation Injuries In The Pre Hospital Setting
February 21, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:96
This course is designed to equip EMS providers with critical knowledge and skills for identifying, managing, and documenting strangulation injuries, as well as navigating forensic crime scenes. Participants will explore the often subtle yet life-threatening signs of strangulation, appropriate prehospital treatment protocols, and effective strategies to encourage patients to seek further medical evaluation and support services. In addition, the course will address the EMS provider’s role at potential crime scenes, with a focus on maintaining scene safety, recognizing key forensic evidence, and preserving its integrity without compromising patient care. Through case studies, scenario-based discussions, and current best practices, attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the medical and legal implications of these high-risk situations.
Fast Food Restaurant Fires
February 21, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:90
DESCRIPTION: 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. ABSTRACT: In the 65 years since Ray Kroc opened his first McDonald’s drive-in, fast food restaurants have become a part of everyday life. The familiarity, relatively small size, and standalone design of most fast food restaurants can lure fire officers into utilizing residential firefighting tactics in these buildings, especially in areas where large houses are common (or commercial structure fires are uncommon). However, in modern restaurants, ultra-lightweight construction, heavyweight equipment, and commercial fire loads combine to make an unfamiliar and unexpectedly hazardous environment for firefighters accustomed to operating in single-family homes. Many fast food restaurants are also dangerous examples of form not following function, as the buildings use roof parapets, facades, suspended ceilings, or other features to match their chain’s image or theme. These structural elements create hidden void spaces where fire can grow or travel…with catastrophic results. Designed for incident commanders, company officers, and firefighters, this class explores the unique challenges posed by fast food restaurant fires. By combining case histories and the presenter’s first-hand experience, participants will learn effective tactics for fire suppression and RIT operations. The weaknesses of the standardized, cost-efficient construction techniques used by chain restaurants and the benefits of preplanning are also discussed. LEARNING OBJECTIVES: 1. Discuss the effects of modern restaurant construction methods on fire spread and suppression, search, rescue, and RIT, ventilation, and firefighter safety. 2. Identify factors contributing to truss failure and collapse, including heavy roof loads, fire in void spaces, and cooking equipment and exhaust hoods. 3. Describe restaurant-specific considerations for the size-up and the use of thermal imagers (TICs), fire load and fire flow, offensive/defensive decisions, forcible entry and exit, special hazards unique to restaurants. 4. Discuss the benefits of response guidelines and preplanning programs. METHODOLOGY: The class begins with a brief discussion of the of the problems posed by fast food restaurant fires. The relevance of the topic is then reinforced through a double line-of-duty death case study involving a McDonald’s restaurant. Next, the presentation covers building construction, size-up, and tactical decision-making, using real-world examples of fast food restaurants, including first-hand accounts from the presenter’s own experience. Ventilation options are discussed, as are techniques for locating and confined hidden fires. The presentation then moves on to non-fire hazards associated with fast food restaurants, including compressed gasses, greases, and plastics; plus, forcible entry challenges for both occupied and abandoned restaurants. The class concludes with a look at water supply and fire attack options. The four-hour version of the class allows for an extended discussion of effective communication techniques, ways to enhance scene safety, ventilation, and forcible entry. The classroom instruction is supported by a photo-rich visual presentation featuring multiple 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 fire scenes are used to help bridge the gap between the classroom and the street. NOTE: This class can be delivered in either a 1.75- or 4-hour format. The 4-hour class allows for additional case studies and an expanded discussion of supporting topics, including communications, forcible, entry, ventilation, and water supply.
Tearing Down The Walls - Open Concept Tactics
February 21, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:96
This program will discuss the changes that open concept construction has brought for not only the occupants during fire incidents but the changes in our strategies and tactics. This will include statistics based on the cause and origin of fires, with cooking fires being the #1 cause of residential fires in the US, which is also the room in the home that the walls are being removed. The discussion will then move into a change in fire behavior with connecting of fuels with no separation leading to more off gassing and potential for flashover. Emphasis on changes to tactics which will have a direct impact on saving lives and property will include; Reading Smoke (Signs and Symptoms of open concept) Flow Path (Controlling including PPV use) Transitional attack options (Emphasis on “transitional”) Hoseline placement Search locations and patterns Survivability profile (Finding savable lives) Increased use of VEIS Effects on vertical ventilation Open concept with multi-story
It’s Still Killing Us, Cardiac Event Prevention For Firefighters
February 21, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:97
The Fire Service is a data driven industry; we use statistics for everything. One statistic we can never seem to get away from is that on average the percentage of firefighter deaths hovers around 50 percent. We are force fed this number from the time we take our first class until the day we retire if we are fortunate enough to make it that day. Thousands of hours have been spent studying and researching on this topic, just because the statistics aren’t on our side does not mean we have to accept it as a forever fact. Fitness programs and medical screenings have improved and there has never been more focus on firefighter health and wellness from management, however there is much more that we can do at the grass roots level. This course will discuss additional health screenings and other measures we can take individually to ensure that not only we are here to respond effectively when dispatched but also make it home to our loved ones when we leave the station. As a Firefighter and Heart Attack Survivor, I have the responsibility to pay forward my good fortune and ensure that other firefighters do not find themselves in the position I found myself in.
Leveraging Social Media For Retention, Recruitment And Education
February 21, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:90
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 interaction. 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.
Safe Transport Of Pediatric And Bariatric Patients
February 21, 2026 13:00 - 14:45Fee: $0.00
Seats Remaining:97
Every day we are called to scenes involving patient movement—from simply putting a patient back in bed to some of the most complex calls which challenge even the most experienced EMS provider. We have a variety of patient-moving devices available to transfer patients from point A to point B safely. Not all patients are of the same size, we will discuss the equipment necessary to move and transport bariatric and/or pediatric patients. This program will discuss the differences in equipment necessary to properly secure and transport these unique patients. This program is intended to make patient care providers more aware of the issues surrounding patient transfer to help prevent patients from further injury.
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Who can access the VFCA member portal?
Please note that the VFCA member portal is to be used by members of VFCA only. Certain workspaces within the member portal will be tailored for and restricted to certain membership types; access to these areas will be determined and approved by VFCA staff. The Content that is displayed in your member portal will automatically vary based on your user / membership type.
What can be posted?
To ensure all interactions within the VFCA member portal are safe and friendly, VFCA staff will oversee the member portal activity and will review, edit, and delete any inappropriate content that has been submitted. This includes abusive or offensive language, spam, malicious files, or other disrespectful contact. To help provide a productive environment, please report any offensive or suspicious activity to VFCA staff. Please note that not all user-submitted content is representative of VFCA, nor does it necessarily represent the views of VFCA, its staff or members.
