Marietta, GA
MAFFC 2026
Classroom Schedule
Classes will be located at Cobb Fire Training Grounds. Classes are still being finalized. Subject to change, please contact the MAFFC team with any questions.
Wednesday May 13, 8am
Dangers of EV and Stored Energy for the Modern Fire Service
8am
Steve Orsini
Classroom 1
This 2-hour course equips firefighters, company officers, and incident commanders with practical, evidence-based tactics for recognizing and mitigating hazards from electric vehicles (EVs) and modern stored-energy systems. Topics include battery chemistry and thermal runaway, on-scene size-up and isolation, stabilization and disablement, extrication with high-voltage awareness, suppression and long-duration mitigation, and interagency coordination with towing, manufacturers, and utilities. Attendees receive ready-to-use checklists, HV component ID sheets, and SOP template language to immediately improve safety and post-incident operations.
Captain Stephen Orsini brings 19 years of experance in the American fire service, including 17 years in special operations and a progressive leadership path from Firefighter, Engineer, Lieutenant and now to Captain. Currently serving as a Co-Lead Recruit Training Officer with the Glendale Fire Department, Captain Orsini is recognized for his dynamic approach to firefighter development, innovative training tactics, and deep commitment to the craft.
A Four-time Recruit Training Officer and lead instructor of his department’s flashover chamber program, Lead instructor for Electric Vehicle Fires and stored energy dangers in the American fire service. Specializes in tactical ground ladder deployment, search, forceable entry, and extrication. He has played a pivotal role in shaping academy instruction and introducing modernized ladder operations and visual training tools. He is a longtime member of his department’s training, Engine Ops, Ladder Ops, and Live burn cadre. Captain Orsini is known for his ability to translate field-tested knowledge into impactful, Firefighter ready training.
Outside the classroom, Captain Orsini is the creator and host of the Copper State Firemen Podcast and an active member of FOOLS serving as Vice President in his chapter The Copper State FOOLS, where he continues to spread knowledge and pride in the fire service. His teaching style is rooted in mentorship, empowering the members to make the decision on scene, and a team-first philosophy that prioritizes those on the fire ground.
A firm believer in the “upside-down triangle” model of leadership, Captain Orsini leads with service, fosters a culture of mutual respect, and is committed to preparing the next generation of firefighters with intensity, heart and purpose rooted in tradition.
6 Pillars of Resilience
8am
Ric Jorge
Classroom 7
This workshop will explore the six pillars of resilience; the breath, mindfulness, meditation, mental, rehearsal, rumination, and segmentation. There are several subsets to each pillar that will be discussed in depth to better understand the application for performance training. This workshop is based off the book “Developing Firefighter Resiliency” by using A/V and diagrams to break down the physiology of resilience into portions that make it easier to understand an often misunderstood topic.
Ric Jorge is a 29 year veteran of the fire service. 24 years as a career firefighter with Palm Beach County rec commanded engines, ladders, and ambulances during his career. Delivering lectures and hands-on training classes, nationally and internationally as several well-known fire conferences.
Having worked in the mental health and substance abuse field for 13 years, he has facilitated hundreds of groups for uniformed personnel: FF, LEO, Military (combat and non-combat), Treasury, FBI, CIA, Corrections. struggling with substance abuse and mental health issues.
Ric coauthored the book "Developing Firefighter Resiliency" by Penn-well along with Bob Carpenter Miami Dade FD and Dave GillespiePeterborough Ca.. He is published in book chapters of Pennwell "FF 1 &2 Training Book", and Dave Dodson & John Normans book "The Art ofReading Buildings", he has also authored articles for publication in magazines, newsletters, and on line blogs as well as being on dozens of podcasts.
Now retired Ric can be found surfing his home break in SoFlo, or driving the next best thing to an apparatus, a tractor, in N Ga.
Building Construction for Truck Officers
8am
Ed Hadfield - Brass Shamrock Training
Classroom 6
Building Construction isn’t just a chapter in a book—it’s the foundation for every move you make on the fireground. If you can’t read the building, you’re flying blind. From breaching doors on a forcible entry, cutting roofs for ventilation, diving into search and rescue, or tearing it apart during overhaul—every decision starts with understanding what’s holding that structure together... and what’s waiting to kill you.
This course strips it down to the studs. We’ll break down the types of construction you’ll face, teach you how to make fast, accurate reads, and show you how those observations dictate you Truck operations. No fluff. No theory without application. Just the real-world knowledge you need to dominate the fireground and keep your crew alive.
Topics Covered:
Building Construction essentials for Truck work
Rapid size-up and structural reads under pressure
How construction impacts forcible entry, ventilation, search, and overhaul
Tactical insights for aggressive, calculated Truck operations
If you want to be more than a tool operator—if you want to be a thinking, adaptable Truckie— this is your course. Bring your grit. Leave with the edge. “Know the Structure. Own the Fight.”
Ed Hadfield brings over 30 years of fire service leadership, rising from Firefighter to Fire Chief and becoming one of the nation’s most respected voices in company officer development. Ed is a founding member and lead instructor with Brass Shamrock Training, where his missionfocused approach continues to shape today’s fire service leaders.
A nationally recognized instructor, Ed is known for elevating professionalism through his work in Truck Company Operations, Firefighter Safety & Survivability, and Command Tactics. He has built and delivered premier Truck Company Academies across the West Coast and has been a featured presenter at Firehouse World, Firehouse Expo, FDIC West, the Seattle Vision Conference, and the California Training Officers Symposium. His work is frequently highlighted in Firehouse, California Fire Service, and other leading publications. Ed holds advanced degrees in Leadership and Organizational Studies and is a certified California Chief Officer. His programs continue to influence and inspire the next generation of company officers and command leaders nationwide
Aggressive Is The Standard: Reclaiming The Fireground
8am
Kelly McGowan
Classroom 5
The fireground doesn’t wait — and neither should we. This class makes the case that aggressive firefighting isn’t reckless; it’s responsible. We’ll break down why aggressive tactics should be the standard in today’s fire service, not the exception. From rapid size-ups and decisive interior attacks to coordinated ventilation and fast water on the fire, we’ll focus on actions that save lives — both civilian and firefighters. This session challenges the comfort zone of “defensive first” mindsets and lays out a blueprint for calculated, high-impact operations rooted in training, readiness, and command leadership.
This is not a back-to-basics class. It’s a call to step up, not stand by. If you’re ready to sharpen your edge, rethink your strategy, and lead from the front, this is where you start.
Owner and Qualified Lead Instructor of Down & Dirty Fire Training. Kelly started as a volunteer in Southeastern NC before beginning his career as a firefighter. He holds several certifications and has been chosen to present at several conferences, including but not limited to, Women In Fire International, NC Association of Fire Chiefs Conference and FDIC. His career departments range from a small city 3 station department (City of Lumberton, NC) to a large combination department (Horry County Fire Rescue, SC), and large urban departments (Raleigh, NC & Baltimore City, MD). Currently, Kelly is a volunteer Captain and Training Officer with the Town of Red Springs (NC), and a Firefighter with Baltimore City (MD).
Leadership From The Bottom Up!
8am
Dr. Candace Ashby
Classroom 4
This fun and engaging personal and professional development class will lay out a one size fits all approach to becoming a better leader. The audience will be taken on a journey on having the right mindset will help you overcome obstacles and make you better! This class also serves as a swift kick in the pants reminder to show up better today than yesterday! No matter your time or rank, you will walk away from this class fired up to be the rockstar you were meant to be and help drive positive change in yourself, your crew, and your organization! This no-nonsense candid conversation discusses real issues plaguing organizations along with tactics on how to improve leadership, communications, build morale, increase productivity, enhance innovation, and provide better customer service! Warning: This is not your typical leadership class or for the faint of heart.
Dr. Candace Ashby is a career firefighter with over 35 years of fire service experience and is a Battalion Chief with the Indianapolis Fire Department. Her educational background includes a Doctorate of Management in Organizational Leadership. She is President of Key Fire Investigations and ELITE Public Safety Consulting. Dr. Ashby enjoys making a positive impact in the fire service through coaching, mentoring, and leading positive change.
Building FACTS: Size-up; Outside and In
8am
Chis Naum
Classroom 3
Effective and Accurate Assessments on the Fireground are a critical function on today’s fireground. Much is attributed to the three-sixty and to a defined process that has remained constant since the mid-1980’s with roots to the early 1950’s. This program provides an overview of the methodology and process to increase operational effectiveness and ensure critical building factors are identified, assessment and monitored throughout the incident with insights on an enhanced size-up model, building and fire risk model and operational template that meets today’s fireground challenges in various building types and occupancies that includes a fluid size-up process that must be inclusive of both the exterior fireground and the building’s interior as well.
A 50-year fire service veteran and a highly regarded national and international instructor, author, lecturer and fire officer, he is a distinguished authority on building sciences and architectural construction issues affecting the fireground operations, command and tactics and has traveled extensively throughout the United States and internationally delivering training programs on building performance, construction and firefighting, fireground leadership, command management and operational safety. He has been lecturing and instructing throughout the United States and internationally for over thirty-nine years. He is the Chief of Training for the Command Institute and served as a Vice-President with the International Society of Fire Service Instructors (ISFSI) and a past member of the Board of Directors, IAFC Safety, Health & Survival Section. A former architect and fire protection engineer he was the 1987 ISFSI-Fire Engineering Magazine George D. Post National Fire Instructor of the Year and is a Technical Consultant, Advisor and Subject Matter Expert to the NIOSH Firefighter Fatality Investigation and Prevention Program and Firefighter LODD Reports. He is a sought-after national keynote speaker, instructor and presenter and has served as an FDIC General Session Keynote speaker and National Fire Academy Adjunct Instructor.
Street Smart Extrication
8am
Tim O'Conner
Classroom 2
Vehicle extrication is a puzzle. But its not a normal puzzle; it’s a puzzle with constantly changing rules. Manufacturers strive to make the best vehicles on the road so they can make the most sales. They design their vehicles to perform safely when involved in a collision. What they don’t care about is the fire department and its ability to extricate someone from one of their vehicles. Extrication challenges facing todays crews have grown exponentially with new vehicle components and construction practices. This class will help dismantle those practices and show real-world ways to beat them, sometimes by using them to your advantage to get trapped occupants out in a timely manner. Learn maneuvers that can be used to extricate trapped civilians in a tested, timely manner.
Tim O’Connor is a Career Firefighter/EMT in a combination company in Delaware. He has been an active volunteer for 20 years and has held various positions during that time up to and including Deputy Chief. Tim is an Instructor at the Delaware State Fire School and teaches with Task Force 1, INC. Tim has written articles published in Firehouse and Fire Engineering Magazine and has taught at various conferences around the Country including FDIC, FH Expo, and many local conferences
Wednesday May 13, 10am
First Truck Doesn't Stage
10am
Steve Reno
Classroom 6
Brass Shamrock proudly wears this on the front of our shirts, and we stand behind it
The objective of this course is to enhance and engage your tactical significance and mind set of Truck Operations before, during and after the fire.
Tactical Significance / Tactical Advantage:
• Immediate Action: The first truck is expected to engage immediately upon arrival during the firegrounds critical juncture, taking offensive action, performing critical tasks like forcible entry, victim search, proactive laddering operations and ventilation in an exigent manner.
• No Delay: Unlike other units that wait in staging until assigned, the first truck moves to engage, taking the fight to the fire based on the initial size-up and command structure.
• Own The Address: You have one opportunity to get the spot right for the first due Truck, anything else and your playing catchup.
The “WHY” is more important than the “HOW”.
• Time-Sensitive Operations: Under demanding circumstances, truck companies execute high-priority, time-compressed assignments: primary search beyond the nozzle and above the fire, tactical ventilation to alter fire behavior, and emergency access operations all tasks where mission delay directly impacts survivability.
• Command Leadership: The Truck Officer is a critical element of command; establishing initial command when first-arriving or serving as a key tactical advisor for life-safety priorities and structural assessment, assuming a divisional or group assignment.
Departmental SOPs and tactical best practices mandate speed and initiative for first-arriving truck companies. Our goal: operationalize this doctrine, ensuring these principles drive actual fireground performance, not just policy documents and posters on the wall.
In this course we will emphasize.
• First Due Truck: Successful Spotting and Positioning, owning the address.
• Truck 360: Beyond the size-up, developing the best possible Truck tactics in support of the overall scene strategy
• Truck Officer Command: Assisting the IC in making good decisions regarding Truck Tactics
• The Three “W’S” of Laddering: What, Where and Why: aerial and ground ladder placement
• Setting the Pace: Taking an active and dynamic approach that encourages sound tactics on the overall fire scene
Steve has a passion for the fire service and considers himself truly fortunate to be involved in this dynamic field. With more than 2 decades of experience in Hands-On Training (HOT), he has taken on the roles of both presenter and instructor at various renowned symposiums nationwide, including Firehouse World, Firehouse Expo, and the Cal State Instructors Symposium, among others. For over 20 years, he has also instructed with Firetown Training Specialists, honing his skills and expertise. Along with the talented team at Brass Shamrock Training, Steve has developed innovative training programs and provided invaluable guidance to fire departments across the U.S. The Firetown Truck Academy has gained national recognition as a leader in Truck Academy Training, known for its compelling and effective approach.
Inside and Out: A Mayday from Both Sides
10am
Lee Coker
Classroom 5
This course presents a raw, three-sided breakdown of a real mayday that occurred during an aggressive search in a hoarder home with confirmed entrapment—and minimal manpower. One instructor was the firefighter who fell through the floor and became the mayday. One was the incident commander responsible for the rescue and overall fireground operations. The third was the rescuer who ultimately entered the cellar and untangled the trapped firefighter.
Together, they walk you through what happened above the floor and below it—from the tactical decisions made in command to the physical and mental fight for survival in a flooded cellar. This isn’t a war story. It’s a coordinated, training-driven analysis of a mayday from both ends of the radio.
Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of how staffing limitations, fireground assumptions, and communication breakdowns can converge in seconds—and what can be done to prepare your crews, improve your command decisions, and build a realistic, adaptable mayday strategy.
Lee Coker is a career Fire Lieutenant at Whitfield County Fire Department(GA)with over a decade of experience. Starting in 2011 he has served as a volunteer and career firefighter for various fire departments. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Fire Administration and is a continual student of the fire service. He has a passion for training and spreading knowledge.
Andrew Beavers is Company Officer with over 14 years of fire service experience, holding a Bachelor’s in Fire Administration and currently pursuing a Master’s in Fire Executive Leadership. Specializes in mayday readiness, low-staffing search operations, and fireground command. A mayday survivor dedicated to delivering credible, experience-based training that enhances firefighter survivability and leadership.
Payton Swilling is an Engineer with Whitfield County Fire Department.
Efficient Equals Effective
10am
Dylan Briggs
Classroom 4
This class will encompass strategies to build into a firefighter's personnel and crew training methodology in order to become more efficient in all aspects of the job. The practice of efficiency without the end goal of effectiveness can often lead down the road of laziness and complacency. However, if we have the end goal of being effective firefighters and fire crews for THEM, then we can achieve the desired outcome.
The class is broken down into four primary sections; Training, Operations, Apparatus, and Culture. This class is based on leadership and mindset in order to build a foundation for success.
During the course we will discuss improvement in turnout times, personnel gear layout, job specific tool selection, riding assignments, tailboard time, scene size up, forcible entry, apparatus design, and more. Portions of this class will address the career firefighter, the volunteer firefighter, and members of apparatus design committees.
DYLAN BRIGGS is a Captain with the Morrisville (NC) Fire/Rescue Department where he is currently assigned to Rescue Company 21. He is also a member of the Northwest Harnett Vol. Fire Department. Dylan is a lover of the fire service and prides himself on being a student of the craft. He is and NC Fire Instructor Level-3, SPRAT Instructor, serves as a Fire Academy Instructor, as well as national speaker at many fire conferences. Dylan is also the Owner and Operator of GSF Training & Equipment Solutions. In addition, Dylan has a passion for firefighter mental/physical wellness; since 2018 Dylan has been a member of the North Carolina Peer Support Team (NCPS) where he currently serves as the Central Regional Coordinator. Dylan is also an instructor for FRCE (First Responder Center for Excellence). In his time away from the firehouse Dylan enjoys spending time with his wife Carla and daughter Kensley.
Insights on the Commercial Fireground: Small Foot-Print Retail and the Mini-Box
10am
Chis Naum
Classroom 3
The Buildings and Structures that provide occupancy and use for commercial functions and services continue to evolve at a rapid pace with emerging construction methods, new materials and innovated architectural treatments and emergent engineering practices. Presenting insights on the small foot-print commercial building and the mini-box configuration, this program will increase promote new skill sets in the fundamentals of commercial building construction that directly impact firefighting operations at structure fires. Case studies, best practices and defined modeling will be presented with a focus on tactical risks and key considerations for the First-Due Company, Company Officer and Commander.
A 50-year fire service veteran and a highly regarded national and international instructor, author, lecturer and fire officer, he is a distinguished authority on building sciences and architectural construction issues affecting the fireground operations, command and tactics and has traveled extensively throughout the United States and internationally delivering training programs on building performance, construction and firefighting, fireground leadership, command management and operational safety. He has been lecturing and instructing throughout the United States and internationally for over thirty-nine years. He is the Chief of Training for the Command Institute and served as a Vice-President with the International Society of Fire Service Instructors (ISFSI) and a past member of the Board of Directors, IAFC Safety, Health & Survival Section. A former architect and fire protection engineer he was the 1987 ISFSI-Fire Engineering Magazine George D. Post National Fire Instructor of the Year and is a Technical Consultant, Advisor and Subject Matter Expert to the NIOSH Firefighter Fatality Investigation and Prevention Program and Firefighter LODD Reports. He is a sought-after national keynote speaker, instructor and presenter and has served as an FDIC General Session Keynote speaker and National Fire Academy Adjunct Instructor.
Science in the Streets; Research Implications on the Fireground
10am
Tim O'Conner
Classroom 2
The fire service has been provided a great gift in the form of scientific studies focused on exploring our on scene behavior and the effects that behavior has on the overall fireground. Unfortunately, many don’t understand the information that is included in those studies and what it means for our operations. Understanding the “why” behind the “how” helps make us better firefighters. Being able to take the overload of data, pare down what is of benefit, apply that to our operations, then train on it is what makes us effective on the fireground. This class will provide an overview of the recent studies, dive into the data and recommendations, and facilitate a discussion on how to best incorporate the relevant information into solid, research backed tactics on the fireground.
Tim O’Connor is a Career Firefighter/EMT in a combination company in Delaware. He has been an active volunteer for 20 years and has held various positions during that time up to and including Deputy Chief. Tim is an Instructor at the Delaware State Fire School and teaches with Task Force 1, INC. Tim has written articles published in Firehouse and Fire Engineering Magazine and has taught at various conferences around the Country including FDIC, FH Expo, and many local conferences
Wednesday May 13, 1pm
Detailed Leadership, Aggressive Tactics
1pm
Micah Raines
Classroom 6
Intentional leadership is the foundation for success within an organization, on the fire ground, or when building relationships. From the bay floor to the battalion car, leadership will rise or fall based on investment in the little details. This class takes an in-depth look at what it means to be detailed with your people, and your profession. It will look at how good leadership can translate into aggressive tactics on the fire ground. Qualities of a good leader, how to deal with your people, and supporting the mission of the fire service are topics that will be discussed. To win on the fire ground we must be able to lead in the firehouse.
Instructor Bio Coming Soon
Making Ladders Great Again
1pm
Lee Humphrys
Classroom 5
Making Ladders Great Again is a class that is designed to help with the struggles of limited manpower in your department. We will offer you a couple of different ways to accomplish the task of getting ground ladders in place even if you are short staffed. In order to accomplish this task, first there has to be training involved before you can effectively perform these task on a fire scene. We will go over common lengths of ladders and weights along with a working max height for the common sizes of ground ladders.
Lee Humphrys currently a back step fireman at Company 51 in Sandy Springs. I have been in the fire service since 2005. I have worked small single man engine departments to larger departments. Been a fireman, Driver, Acting Officer, and Captain over my career. I am loving being back on the back step of the truck.
Taking Control: Homefront to the Fireground
1pm
Joe and Heather Yowler
Classroom 4
Taking Control: Homefront to the Fireground is a three-part endeavor. This lecture can be delivered to firefighters and spouses or either group individually. This lecture can also be presented by one lecturer or by Joe & Heather as dual presenters.
First, we will tackle the body. Stress-induced tachycardia and exertion-induced tachycardia affect the body in different ways. Stress-induced tachycardia causes a narrowing field of vision, auditory exclusion, loss of fine motor skills, and the inability to make a clear decision or have cognitive thought. Exertion-induced tachycardia simply raises the heart rate. Firefighter experiences an extreme amount of stress-induced tachycardia during their time of service. This will be expanded for both the fireground and the homefront.
Second, we will go through some practices both good and bad preparing for the job. Past practices sometimes involve complex escape methods, elaborate mayday procedures, and training that is unrealistic causing a false sense of security. This has been recognized and studied in depth by many. We will expand on and bridge the gap between the science and the fire service. We will cover methods and practices used to help reverse or slow the effects of stress on the fireground. This is accomplished through breathing techniques, meditation methods, simplifying practices, and repetition. Our class will focus on how our stressors affect our home life and how we can bridge the gap from work stress to homefront stress.
Lastly, we will dive into the mind both on the fireground and at home. We will go over techniques and experiences we have found along our way as a fire couple. Some of the topics discussed will include how to keep your family involved, diffusing and balancing work vs life, and reducing stress at home during shift days. For years we have heard the sayings such as "Don’t take work home with you.”, and "Keep work at work and home at home." We are here to break that old tale and show you how to balance your mind with work and home. Mental health is a priority and one we hold very close to our hearts. This lecture is a journey that we will take attendees on that is full of trials and tribulations in both the fire service career and our homefront experience.
Together, Joe and Heather Yowler bring a unique perspective to firefighter training and family support through Twisted Fire Industries and Carolina Fire Days. Joe has over 20 years in the fire service and is pursuing a master’s in social work and psychology from The Ohio State University. Drawing from his experience with peer support at both department and state levels, he focuses on simplifying and streamlining fireground practices through breathing techniques, stress mitigation, and daily repetition to improve performance and well-being both on and off the job. Heather, a fire wife of 12 years with two decades of experience living the “fire life, ” is an advocate for fire families and co- developed a hands-on training program designed for spouses to better understand the physical and mental demands of the fire service. Together, they are passionate about building stronger firefighters and families through education, communication, and resilience.
Construction, OPS and Risks in Adaptive Reutilized Type III’s; Old School Hazards & Occupancy Risk
1pm
Chis Naum
Classroom 3
This dynamic program will provide insights on Emerging Trends: Methods, Materials of Construction with dialog on Adaptive Reutilization of Type III’s and Trends on Main Street Taxpayers and Occupancies and explores the complexities of this heritage and legacy construction system and building and their renovations, adaptive reuse, make-overs and changes in both building and occupancy risks on fireground operations.
A 50-year fire service veteran and a highly regarded national and international instructor, author, lecturer and fire officer, he is a distinguished authority on building sciences and architectural construction issues affecting the fireground operations, command and tactics and has traveled extensively throughout the United States and internationally delivering training programs on building performance, construction and firefighting, fireground leadership, command management and operational safety. He has been lecturing and instructing throughout the United States and internationally for over thirty-nine years. He is the Chief of Training for the Command Institute and served as a Vice-President with the International Society of Fire Service Instructors (ISFSI) and a past member of the Board of Directors, IAFC Safety, Health & Survival Section. A former architect and fire protection engineer he was the 1987 ISFSI-Fire Engineering Magazine George D. Post National Fire Instructor of the Year and is a Technical Consultant, Advisor and Subject Matter Expert to the NIOSH Firefighter Fatality Investigation and Prevention Program and Firefighter LODD Reports. He is a sought-after national keynote speaker, instructor and presenter and has served as an FDIC General Session Keynote speaker and National Fire Academy Adjunct Instructor.
Successful Short Staffed Engine
1pm
Tim O'Conner
Classroom 2
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.
Tim O’Connor is a Career Firefighter/EMT in a combination company in Delaware. He has been an active volunteer for 20 years and has held various positions during that time up to and including Deputy Chief. Tim is an Instructor at the Delaware State Fire School and teaches with Task Force 1, INC. Tim has written articles published in Firehouse and Fire Engineering Magazine and has taught at various conferences around the Country including FDIC, FH Expo, and many local conferences
Wednesday May 13, 3pm
Hook Up and Stretch: High-Rise and Mid-Rise Operations
3pm
Micah Raines
Classroom 6
Fire ground operations on residential structure fires are the routine fire call that most departments encounter. However, high-rise and mid-rise standpipe operations present a new set of challenges on the fire ground. This could be a true high-rise in a downtown district or it could be a four-story hotel in a suburban area. Regardless of the location, the same outcome is expected. We must go in and we must make the stretch.
This presentation covers the basic first due tactics and assignments that must be implemented to have a successful outcome. It will cover basic standpipe operations and explore many unique challenges to high-rise and mid-rise operations. In addition to this, there will be an overview of some high-rise case studies that have occurred in the past. Hook Up and Stretch will challenge you in preparing for structure fires when stretching from a standpipe.
Instructor Bio Coming Soon
Size-Up within: Mental Readiness Using Fireground Principles and Coaching Practices
3pm
Charles J. (CJ) Dickinson II
Classroom 5
Size-Up Within equips attendees with the tools to assess and strengthen their mental wellness using fireground principles and coaching practices. Modeled after operations size-ups and incident command structures, this interactive program is for every firefighter, officer, or leaders that wants to translate tactical decision-making into personal mental wellness strategies.
Attendees will engage in scenario-based learning and guided reflection. Each section integrates competencies from the International Coaching Federation, connecting familiar fireground language such as situational awareness, mutual aid, command strategy to mental wellness and leadership development.
Topics including reframing size-up tactics for self-awareness, developing a personal "Incident Command System" for stress management, conducting mental drills for emotional readiness, and creating a "Mutual Aid Run Card" for additional support.
The sessions approach is to build a bridge between operational readiness and mental wellness, to empower attendees to lead with the same clarity and composure they bring to the fireground. Through experiential learning and practical coaching tools attendees with be able to develop their own Incident Action Plan that includes accountabilty, peer support, and strategies to improve their mental wellness.
With over 26 years of progressive leadership experience in business and fire & emergency services, CJ is a dedicated professional committed to excellence and continuous improvement. His background includes budgeting, personnel management, training program development, resource allocation, and emergency management. As a proven leader in public safety operations, he has successfully guided teams through complex challenges while fostering accountability, collaboration, and professional growth. Recognized for a strong work ethic and the ability to perform under pressure, CJ consistently drives innovation in both organizational and frontline performance. His expertise bridges strategic leadership and practical application - ensuring that every initiative enhances readiness, resilience, and service delivery.
Defining The Search
3pm
Joe Yowler
Classroom 4
Defining the Search reinforces the mindset of prioritizing search, dispelling any myths associated with common and uncommon search techniques. Students will experience and gain confidence learning from searches in realistic scenarios from past first-hand experiences. A victim-first mentality will constantly be reinforced the student will learn the best/proven practices of victim management from; drags, removal, and after removal from the structure has been accomplished.
Joe Yowler bring a unique perspective to firefighter training and family support through Twisted Fire Industries and Carolina Fire Days. Joe has over 20 years in the career fire service and is pursuing a master’s in social work and psychology from The Ohio State University.
Predictability of Building Performance: Insights on Compromise and Collapse
3pm
Chis Naum
Classroom 3
Building construction, occupancy risks and the predictability of building performance under fire conditions have a profound influence on the management of operations, identification of tactical protocols and deployment of resources. Understanding key inherent building performance characteristics, implementing predictive occupancy profiling and predicting, knowing and recognizing precursors for compromise and collapse in structural building fires is imperative at the command, company and safety officer roles. A dynamic look a Building Performance Modeling, the Building FACTS Model; First Arriving Construction, Tactics, Safety with Insights on Size-Up, Tactical Windows and Benchmarks this dynamic and fast paced program will provide insights on a methodology and process to increase operational effectiveness and ensure critical building factors and reads are identified, assessment and monitored throughout the incident with insights specific to building and construction compromise and collapse considerations for today’s demanding and unforgiving fireground.
A 50-year fire service veteran and a highly regarded national and international instructor, author, lecturer and fire officer, he is a distinguished authority on building sciences and architectural construction issues affecting the fireground operations, command and tactics and has traveled extensively throughout the United States and internationally delivering training programs on building performance, construction and firefighting, fireground leadership, command management and operational safety. He has been lecturing and instructing throughout the United States and internationally for over thirty-nine years. He is the Chief of Training for the Command Institute and served as a Vice-President with the International Society of Fire Service Instructors (ISFSI) and a past member of the Board of Directors, IAFC Safety, Health & Survival Section. A former architect and fire protection engineer he was the 1987 ISFSI-Fire Engineering Magazine George D. Post National Fire Instructor of the Year and is a Technical Consultant, Advisor and Subject Matter Expert to the NIOSH Firefighter Fatality Investigation and Prevention Program and Firefighter LODD Reports. He is a sought-after national keynote speaker, instructor and presenter and has served as an FDIC General Session Keynote speaker and National Fire Academy Adjunct Instructor.
Thursday May 14, 8am
The Three Cs of Command Presence
8am
Steve Lester
Classroom 5
By definition, command presence is simply how leaders present themselves to the ones they are leading. This could be a coach on a sports team in a pivotal game, a general leading his troops into battle, or a warehouse supervisor preparing his team to take inventory. In the American Fire Service, it’s an incident commander communicating with on-scene resources to mitigate the incident hazards with a sense of competence, confidence and control—the three C’s of command presence. The IC sets the tone for the incident—whether it’s the strategic IC or the mobile IC. This presentation will dive-in to each of these 3 Cs and explain them in detail from both the first person and third person perspective.
Steve Lester serves as the Division Chief of Training for Cobb County Fire and Emergency Services near Atlanta, Georgia. He became a career firefighter in 1996 and worked his way through every rank to his current position. Steve has a Bachelor degree in Fire Administration and an Associate degree in Nursing. He has served his department as a paramedic, special operations medic, adjunct fire training instructor and Blue Card Instructor. Outside of public safety, Steve serves as a registered nurse and is a certified flight registered nurse. Steve has participated in multiple projects within his department including development of the “High-Rise Operations Manual” and the “Incident Management Manual.” Steve has been presenter at the Metro Atlanta Firefighters Conference for many years and presented at the Blue Card Hazard Zone Conferences in 2024 and 2025. He is a senior advisor for the 575 F.O.O.L.S. Steve is a lead instructor with Blue Card; he instructs both Train-the-Trainer courses and various Incident Command Workshops throughout the country.
Walking the Wire-Company Officer
8am
Sean Gray
Classroom 2
Walking the Wire between the Firehouse Kitchen Table and Fire Headquarters for a Company Officer can be a delicate balancing act for anyone in the fire service. Becoming a Company Officer is an integral piece in many firefighters’ career paths. This course will discuss lessons learned from the Fireground to leadership and administrative tasks. A perspective of both successes and failures will be shared. This interactive video-based course will provide the student with insight on how to build a winning team and WIN on both the fireground and within your organization.
Sean has been a member of multiple technical panels involving fire safety research and is an appointed member of the UL FSRI Advisory Board. He has co-authored the book The Evolving Fireground (Fire Engineering) and speaks nationally on research-based tactics. Additionally, Sean is an NFPA committee member for Fundamentals of Fire Control Within a Structure Utilizing Fire Dynamics (NFPA 1700), Fire Hose (NFPA 1961-1965), Fire Service Occupational Safety and Health (NFPA 1500), and Fire Service Training (NFPA 1400).
Sean also teaches Hands on Live Fire Search & Fire Attack along with a classroom lecture titled Attack from the Burned Side at FDIC, where he talks about how the modern fireground is evolving more than ever before, and with the use of research to enhance our procedures, how we can utilize different tasks and tactics to extinguish fires from all angles and how to apply evidence-based tactics to achieve a safer, smarter, and more efficient fireground.
First Due With A Clue
8am
Tim O'Conner
Classroom 3
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.
Tim O’Connor is a Career Firefighter/EMT in a combination company in Delaware. He has been an active volunteer for 20 years and has held various positions during that time up to and including Deputy Chief. Tim is an Instructor at the Delaware State Fire School and teaches with Task Force 1, INC. Tim has written articles published in Firehouse and Fire Engineering Magazine and has taught at various conferences around the Country including FDIC, FH Expo, and many local conferences
Purpose Driven Mission Minded
8am
Blake Stint
Classroom 1
It’s understood that our mission in this job are the citizens in the community that we serve. That term has been famously coined, “FOR THEM”. This is of utmost importance, but there’s another half that should weigh just as heavily, the mission to serve those we work beside. Through this lecture, we will dive into what that looks like and how we should change our mindset to reflect being mission minded towards the ones we work beside every shift.
I truly believe the way we make a greatest difference in those we work beside is to have a mission to serve them. Our purpose to serve should bleed over into every aspect of our life. We are willing to lay down our life for another human, if our ticket is punched. We train hours upon hours to hone and sharpen our skills to make sure we give the citizens, our crews, and ourselves the best chance at going home. We need to take that same mentality and put it towards our crews. We have an opportunity every shift to make sure they are ok, taken care of, and poured into. If we aren’t doing that, we need to change our mindset. We are great at honoring those who have gone before us, but we need to desperately fight for those who are still alive and with us. The plan isn’t fool proof and people aren’t always easy, but we should never give up and never stop serving our crews wholeheartedly. This is how we change lives forever.
Blake has been on the job 12 years and has a heart and mission to serve the people he works beside. Blake lives in Madison, Ga with his beautiful wife, Natalie, and their three precious children, Layleigh, Jack, and Henry. Above all, Blake loves the Lord and knows every opportunity he receives is from him and for him. He is also the Founder of Next Rung, a nonprofit that exists to address the mental health issues of firefighters and first responders. Blake’s hope and passion is to help people see they are valued, loved, and they have a purpose here on this earth. Through Next Rung he’s able to accomplish that goal and more. Blake serves as a cadre member with Bearers of The Oath. Blake is currently on medical leave from the job, due to an on-duty accident.
Thursday May 14, 10am
Pillars of the Fireground
10am
Kevin Lewis and Sean Gray
Classroom 2
The fireground is a complex myriad of tactics and tasks that need to happen now. Simply put, Two Pillars, Search and Extinguishment are all that it takes for a decisive outcome. This class will cover both Search and Extinguishment using a Aggressive and Smart mindset, backed by time tested street experience & research. This interactive video-based lecture and discussion will help students decide what is better for the trapped occupant, taking the problem away from the victim, or taking the victim away from the problem. Aggressive is NOT a Four-Letter Word.
Kevin Lewis: Proud Fireman, and former Battalion Chief Cobb County Fire. 28-year veteran of Cobb County Fire and a current Big Canoe Backstep Fireman. He serves on the NFPA 1931/1932 Committee on Ground Ladders. Kevin has proudly instructed extensively both classroom and HOT sessions throughout the United States over the last 16 years. He is a founding member of the Georgia Chapter of the Terry Farrell Firefighter's Fund and has been truly honored to have served with some of the best firefighters in the country.
Sean has been a member of multiple technical panels involving fire safety research and is an appointed member of the UL FSRI Advisory Board. He has co-authored the book The Evolving Fireground (Fire Engineering) and speaks nationally on research-based tactics. Additionally, Sean is an NFPA committee member for Fundamentals of Fire Control Within a Structure Utilizing Fire Dynamics (NFPA 1700), Fire Hose (NFPA 1961-1965), Fire Service Occupational Safety and Health (NFPA 1500), and Fire Service Training (NFPA 1400).
Sean also teaches Hands on Live Fire Search & Fire Attack along with a classroom lecture titled Attack from the Burned Side at FDIC, where he talks about how the modern fireground is evolving more than ever before, and with the use of research to enhance our procedures, how we can utilize different tasks and tactics to extinguish fires from all angles and how to apply evidence-based tactics to achieve a safer, smarter, and more efficient fireground.
First Due With A Clue
10am
Tim O'Conner
Classroom 3
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.
Tim O’Connor is a Career Firefighter/EMT in a combination company in Delaware. He has been an active volunteer for 20 years and has held various positions during that time up to and including Deputy Chief. Tim is an Instructor at the Delaware State Fire School and teaches with Task Force 1, INC. Tim has written articles published in Firehouse and Fire Engineering Magazine and has taught at various conferences around the Country including FDIC, FH Expo, and many local conferences
Thursday May 14, 1pm
Imperfect Pitch: Roof Realities and Construction Conundrums
1pm
William Knight
Classroom 6
Whether you're on an engine, truck, or battalion car; whether you're assigned fire attack, search, or ventilation; whether you're riding the tailboard or the command board: Imperfect Pitch is the building construction class you've always wanted. This is an interactive lecture on construction and how it affects firefighting operations. We'll get into the good, the bad, and the ugly of what keeps the rain out, dispelling myths and misinformation along the way. While there is a heavy emphasis on topside work in this class, we will talk about how everyone on scene relies and acts upon an understanding of what's overhead. Attendees will take home new approaches to discovering and dealing with the odd and unexpected, based upon real-world examples. In addition to regular fireground disagnostics, students will learn a few guerilla tactics for discovering more about the buildings in their area.
William Knight is a Driver/Operator for DeKalb County Fire Rescue, where he has challenged the stress management skills of his officers for 20 years.
Engine and Truck Operations By The Letter
1pm
Sean Gray, Josh Forster, Ian Martin, David Gentile
Classroom 2
Fire ground decision making should be based on facts discovered through experience and validated by research. Our agency SOG’s must be tied to contemporary evidence-based findings. Through a combination of data from UL’s Fire Safety Research Institute (FSRI) experiments and vast experience of our instructors, several consistent themes have emerged that will improve firefighter effectiveness. The Tactical Considerations supporting Engine and Truck Company operations included within this class will challenge, or perhaps reinforce, your Strategies, Tactics and Tasks addressed within your SOG/SOP’s.
Sean has been a member of multiple technical panels involving fire safety research and is an appointed member of the UL FSRI Advisory Board. He has co-authored the book The Evolving Fireground (Fire Engineering) and speaks nationally on research-based tactics. Additionally, Sean is an NFPA committee member for Fundamentals of Fire Control Within a Structure Utilizing Fire Dynamics (NFPA 1700), Fire Hose (NFPA 1961-1965), Fire Service Occupational Safety and Health (NFPA 1500), and Fire Service Training (NFPA 1400).
Sean also teaches Hands on Live Fire Search & Fire Attack along with a classroom lecture titled Attack from the Burned Side at FDIC, where he talks about how the modern fireground is evolving more than ever before, and with the use of research to enhance our procedures, how we can utilize different tasks and tactics to extinguish fires from all angles and how to apply evidence-based tactics to achieve a safer, smarter, and more efficient fireground.
Facilitating Incident Critiques
1pm
Marquam R. Johnson
Classroom 4
We must take every opportunity to learn from our experiences. Facilitating a critique in a positive manner can draw out behaviors to reinforce, and opportunities to improve our operations. This program will present a simple 4-step process that prevents the "blame game", encourages full participation by all involved individuals, and results in obtainable objectives for improvement.
Marquam Johnson is a 54-year veteran of the Connecticut Fire Service. Beginning as a volunteer in Collinsville, he rose through the ranks to become Chief in 1982. With a college degree in architecture, he worked briefly as a Fire Protection Engineer. He was hired as a firefighter in West Hartford in 1979. He retired from West Hartford in 1991 as a Captain to become the Fire Chief in Torrington, a position he held for 10 years. The next 21 years of his career were spent as the Daytime Driver for the Barkhamsted Fire District. This mix of career and volunteer service shaped his career as a Fire Service Instructor; he taught for both the Hartford County and Litchfield County fire schools, and spent 41 years as a CT Fire Academy Instructor. He was an Adjunct Faculty member at the National Fire Academy in the1990s. One of the highlights of his career was his induction into the CT Firefighter’s Hall of Fame, Class of 2019. He “retired” once again in 2022 and moved with his wife to Michigan. There he continues to pursue his passion for firefighting and instruction as a paid-on-call member of the Alpena Township Fire Department.
Acting Up; The Do's and Don'ts of Company Leadership for Firefighters
1pm
Tim O'Conner
Classroom 3
Leadership can be both formal or informal, permanent or temporary. When it’s temporary, there are challenges that are presented that must be overcome to stay effective. Being a temporary company officer, or acting up, is stressful. There is a lot to comprehend and complete both in quarters and on the fireground. Being able to juggle all those responsibilities is a challenge. This course will touch on company leadership on the fireground and in the firehouse as well as present tips and tricks gained from experience to make the transition into an acting company officer role easier.
Tim O’Connor is a Career Firefighter/EMT in a combination company in Delaware. He has been an active volunteer for 20 years and has held various positions during that time up to and including Deputy Chief. Tim is an Instructor at the Delaware State Fire School and teaches with Task Force 1, INC. Tim has written articles published in Firehouse and Fire Engineering Magazine and has taught at various conferences around the Country including FDIC, FH Expo, and many local conferences
Thursday May 14, 3pm
Street Smart Fire Attack
3pm
Tim O'Conner
Classroom 6
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.
Tim O’Connor is a Career Firefighter/EMT in a combination company in Delaware. He has been an active volunteer for 20 years and has held various positions during that time up to and including Deputy Chief. Tim is an Instructor at the Delaware State Fire School and teaches with Task Force 1, INC. Tim has written articles published in Firehouse and Fire Engineering Magazine and has taught at various conferences around the Country including FDIC, FH Expo, and many local conferences
Developing the Mindset for the Suburban Chief Officer
3pm
Chris Kidder
Classroom 2
Transitioning from Company Officer to Chief Officer requires a shift in mindset in order to be successful.
This transition is often overlooked as we rise through the ranks of the Fire Department. Learning how to
lead from a different seat, motivate, stay relevant, engaged, and tactically sound is a challenge for all
Chief Officers. This class discusses ways to Develop the Mindset that is essential for the Suburban Chief
Officer in today's fire service.
This is an experience-based class that is built on success and failures, geared toward aspiring or current
Suburban Chief Officers. Topics to be covered include setting expectations and accountability, prioritizing
the shift, and developing a tactical approach to commanding incidents.
I began my fire service career in 2002. My journey at South Walton Fire District (SWFD) in Santa Rosa Beach, FL, began in 2005 as a Firefighter/EMT. In 2012, I was promoted to Sergeant/Paramedic and then rose to the rank of Lieutenant/Paramedic in 2015 where I was assigned as the Company Officer of one of our Truck Companies. In 2019 I was promoted to the rank of District Chief (Shift Commander) where I am currently assigned to A-shift.
I am currently an active member of the SWFD Technical Rescue Team. I hold an Associate in Science degree in Emergency Medical Services and a Bachelor of Science in Fire Administration. I work at Northwest Florida State College as an adjunct fire instructor. I hold multiple certifications to include Pump Operator, Fire Officer I, Fire Officer II, Fire Officer III, Fire Officer IV, Instructor I, and Live Fire Instructor II.
I have been an active member/participant of our training cadre since 2013, and I currently serve as the Burn Master for SWFD and Northwest Florida State College.
Currently serving as an active technical panel member with the Fire Safety Research Institute (FSRI) for the Fire Dynamics and Firefighting Tactics in Multi-Story Residential Structures.
The Decon Dominoes: A Practical Approach to Fireground Decon and Exposure Reduction
3pm
Captain Creston Ludlow
Classroom 3
This course provides a comprehensive exploration of best practices and contemporary research to develop effective, practical, and repeatable strategies for fireground decon and exposure reduction. Participants will learn to communicate and implement these strategies seamlessly, from the onset of an incident through to its resolution.
The motivation behind this class comes from the growing body of research on cancer prevention in the fire service and yet there is still a significant gap when it comes to turning that information into real-world practice. That’s where "The Decon Dominoes" comes in. It’s the “coloring book version for the kitchen table”—simple, clear, and actionable.
Captain/Paramedic Creston Ludlow has served with the Phoenix Fire Department since 2005, where he is an active member of the Technical Rescue Team, Hazardous Materials Team, and Peer Support Team. He also serves as a Rescue and Logistics Specialist with Arizona Task Force 1 (AZ-TF1).
Captain Ludlow is a Technical Panel Member with the UL Fire Safety Research Institute (FSRI) for the Fire Dynamics and Firefighting Tactics in Multi-Story Residential Structures project. He also contributes to statewide training efforts as a committee member with the Arizona Center for Fire Service Excellence.
A veteran instructor, he has delivered Hands-On Training (H.O.T.) at national conferences including FDIC, Firehouse Expo, and MAFFC. Since 2015, Captain Ludlow has been a driving force behind his department’s cancer prevention and exposure-reduction initiatives, helping lead impactful efforts across the Phoenix metro region and beyond.