WHYYOU SHOULD ATTEND IAFC’S FIRE-RESCUE INTERNATIONAL

Staying ahead in the fire and emergency service industry requires continuous learning and networking. That’s why attending the International Association of Fire Chiefs’(IAFC) Fire-Rescue International (FRI) conference is an invaluable opportunity. This year, we’re heading to Kansas City, Missouri at the Kansas City Convention Center, August 16 - 18, 2023, to learn, network and collaborate.

• Professional Development and Education: At FRI, participants have access to a diverse range of educational sessions, workshops and presentations led by industry experts. FRI offers valuable insights on the latest firefighting techniques, leadership strategies and technological advancements. From hands-on training to interactive discussions, the conference equips attendees with practical knowledge to enhance their professional skills and contribute to their organizations’success.

• Networking and Collaboration: FRI brings together fire service professionals from around the world, creating a dynamic environment for networking and collaboration The conference provides opportunities to connect with industry peers, leaders and vendors. Attendees can exchange ideas, share best practices and build meaningful relationships. These connections can lead to collaborations on projects, mentorship opportunities, and even potential career advancements. FRI’s social events and networking lounges further facilitate relationship-building.

Innovative Solutions: One of the highlights of FRI is the expansive exhibit hall, showcasing the latest products, services, an d technologies in the fire and emergency service sector. Attendees ca n explore a wide array of cutting-edge equipment, apparatus, software, and firefighting tools. This exposure to innovative solutions enables fire service professionals to stay updated with industry trends and identify advancements that can improve their department’s efficiency and effectiveness. Moreover, exhibitors often offer demonstrations and hands-on experiences, allowing attendees to test and evaluate products firsthand.

Plus, this year we will be celebrating IAFC’s 150th Anniversary at FRI!

Attending FRI is an investment in your professional growth and the advancement of the fire and emergency service industry. By participating in this memorable even t, you position yourself at the forefront of industry knowledge and foster connections that can have a lasting impact on your career. Lear n more and register today.

Deputy State Fire Marshal William Pennock Selected as Northeast Regional Office Nominee forDeputy State Fire Marshal of the Year

Deputy State Fire Marshal William ‘Bill’ Pennock has been selected as the Northeast Regional Office nominee for Deputy State Fire Marshal of the Year. Deputy Chief Dexter Hodges, Regional Commander of the Northeast Region, nominated Pennock. The Northeast Region comprises Carroll, Cecil, and Harford counties and state facilities within the Baltimore metro area. It is historically the busiest region in the state, with over 300 investigations per year.

In 2022, Deputy Pennock was the primary investigator on 27 fire and explosive investigations. His investigation resulted in a 62-percent closure rate, with 15 percent ending in an arrest. Deputy Pennock’s investigation included the felony arrest of a University of Maryland Baltimore County law enforcement officer charged with committin g multiple arsons on the university’s campus.

Adam Rounds Nominated forDeputy State Fire Marshal of the Year

Deputy State Marshal II

Adam Rounds has been selected as the Western Regional Office nominee for Deputy State Fire Marshal of the Year. Rounds was nominated by Master Deputy State Fire Marshal Ed Ernst, who was acting supervisor of the Western Region after Deputy Chief Mowbray was promoted to Chief Deputy in May 2022.

Rounds had 37 initial fire investigations and 167 fire safety inspections for the year, one of the highest inspection rates among statewide deputies. Of the 37 investigations, 10 were criminal; 18 cases were closed, including five cases being closed with an arrest. He was also praised for assisting other investigators within the Western Region, which consists of Garrett, Allegany and Washington counties, the largest in square miles the Office