2026 Annual Conference Speakers

2026 Annual Conference Speakers

Communication, Collaboration, Cultivation

April 13-16, 2026 | Waco Convention Center, Waco, TX

Keynote Speakers

Leading the Best of the Best!

John Butler - Fire Chief, Fairfax County, Virginia

John S. Butler is the Fire Chief for Fairfax County, Virginia. He is a paramedic and holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Baltimore, a master’s degree from Johns Hopkins University, and certificates from Harvard University, the National Fire Academy (NFA) Executive Fire Officer Program (EFO), and the Fire Service Executive Development Institute (FSEDI). Chief Butler served as the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) President in 2023-2024, holds the Chief Fire Officer, Chief EMS Officer, Chief Training Officer, and Fire Marshal designations from the Commission on Professional Credentialing (CPC). He is chairman of the NFA Board of Visitors and is a board member of the Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation. Chief Butler is a retired U.S. Marine with 20 years of active and reserve USMC service, including two combat tours.

Fireproofing your Heart - Preventing the #1 Cause of Line of Duty Death for Fire-Fighters

Benjamin Stone - Prefessional Speaker, Benjamin Stone Speaks

A graduate of the University of Arkansas and Oxford University, Dr. Stone holds a PhD in Human Physiology with an emphasis in cardiovascular genomics and metabolism. He also worked with the British Olympic Medical Institute at Northwick Park Hospital, pioneering screening methodologies to prevent sudden cardiac deaths in young athletes due to a disease called hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

At just 24, Dr. Stone was appointed Senior Lecturer at the University of Oxford’s Department of Physiology, where he delivered regular lectures on nutritional biochemistry, energy metabolism, and pathophysiology to medical and nursing students. He later served as Assistant Professor in the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics at the University of Central Arkansas and as an adjunct professor at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, where he also co-chaired the committee determining medical curricula.

In 2015, Dr. Stone co-founded Sigma Tactical Wellness, where he served as CEO until its acquisition by Telemed2U in 2025. Under his leadership, Sigma became the national authority in advanced cardiac disease prevention for first responders, developing innovative research and screening protocols that have saved countless lives in police and fire agencies across the United States.

Abstract

Heart disease remains the leading cause of line-of-duty death among firefighters, with risk levels dramatically outpacing those of civilians. While a 55- to 60-year-old civilian faces a 1.6% chance of a fatal heart attack, the probability among firefighters in the same age group soars to 56%. Despite this staggering disparity, traditional diagnostic models—designed around civilian populations—routinely fail to identify dangerous, developing cardiac conditions in public safety personnel.

In this powerful, research-driven presentation, Dr. Benjamin Stone breaks down the unique cardiovascular challenges faced by first responders. He examines why cardiac disease appears so prominently in individuals as young as 25 to 40, why conventional risk assessments frequently miss early warning signs, and how occupational demands accelerate the development of cardiac illness.

Participants will follow a clear, step-by-step overview of the atherosclerotic process, from the earliest changes in arterial inflammation to the onset of acute cardiac events. Dr. Stone will introduce emerging diagnostic tools that offer far greater accuracy in detecting risk early—before a catastrophic outcome occurs—and will share groundbreaking findings from current occupational-medicine research.

General Session Speakers

"Hot" Topics

Ken Prillaman - Founder and Principle, Five Trumpets Advisors

Ken Prillaman was appointed Fire Chief, City of Wichita Falls, Texas on July 15, 2019. He previously served as Fire Chief, Fire Marshal and Emergency Management Director for the City of Brooklyn Park, Minnesota.

He has two Associate Degrees in Fire Science and graduated Magna Cum Laude from Columbia Southern University, with a Bachelor’s Degree in Fire Administration with a Fire Investigation major. He is a Nationally Certified Fire Officer III, Fire Investigator, Fire Instructor II as well as an IAAI-Fire Investigation Technician and Evidence Collection Technician.

Ken was a Minnesota Certified Emergency Management Director and is a National Registry EMT. Ken has an excellent reputation as a command officer and has taught incident command in high-rise operations for the National Fire Academy. In 2019, Ken earned his credential as a Chief Fire Officer from the Center for Public Safety Excellence.

Ken has served in a variety of regional and state leadership roles including service as the Deputy Director in the Minneapolis MACS Emergency Operations Center for Super Bowl 52. Ken is a member of the North Texas All Hazard Incident Management Team and he serves on the weekend staff of the National Fallen Firefighter Memorial in Emmitsburg, MD. Ken wrote and published the Minnesota Ceremonies & Protocol Guidebook, heralded as the most comprehensive guide of its type in the fire service.

Ken is an accomplished public speaker and has presented at a variety of local, state and national meetings. He and his family have devoted free time to helping parents keep their kids safe on the internet. His presentation “Parents vs. Predators” has received national acclaim and has been developed into a made-for-television documentary that won a 2012 Telly Award.

In 2018, Ken wrote and published his first book, “Leadership Lessons from the Fireground.” Ken spends free time traveling, golfing and speaking to various groups on leadership.

Ken retired from full-time active duty on March 31, 2023. He and his wife, Debbie, reside in Wichita Falls.

Applying Organizational Maturity Models To Your Organization and Career

Robert Abbott - Fire Chief, Travis County Emergency Services District No. 6 / Lake Travis Fire Rescue

Fire Chief Robert B. Abbott began his fire service career with Lake Travis Fire Rescue in 1996, where he served in many ranks throughout his career. Today, Chief Abbott is privileged to be able to lead a staff of talented professionals who are focused on providing the highest level of fire, prevention, and pre-hospital care possible by nurturing an open labor/management relationship and developing community-centric programs. Chief Abbott holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Concordia University, a master’s degree in public affairs from the University of Texas Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs, and is a graduate of both the Harvard Kennedy School’s Government Senior Executive in State and Local Government program and Executive Public Policy program. He has earned both the Texas Fire Chief’s Academy Certified Fire Executive (CFE) and the Center for Public Safety Excellence’s Chief Fire Officer (CFO) designations. Chief Abbott is a distinguished National Fire Academy Executive Fire Officer (EFO) program graduate. He is a trained mediator and has served as an expert witness on matters related to employee terminations and labor disputes. Additionally, he has the honor of being the founding union president of the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Local 4117. Chief Abbott actively supports state and federal legislative initiatives focused on improving the public safety industry and consults with US White House officials (45th & 46th President Administrations) on wildfire reduction, flooding, and community resilience. He is the legislative chair of the Texas Fire Chiefs Association.

Abstract

Organizations mature at different rates, depending on factors such as economics, leadership, service demand, and politics. Attendees will learn how to apply organizational maturity models to their own agency, program, shift, and even career. From fast-growing fire departments with new labor forces, newly formed divisions, and services to departments that are 100 years old, this course will highlight the ambiguity at each stage of maturity, allowing attendees to assess their own organization more effectively and prepare for the next level. The concepts can be applied to various aspects of our industry, environment, and professional and personal development. Attendees will receive a digital copy of my organizational maturity assessment workbook via an in-class QR code.

Breadkout Session Speakers

Perceptions, Pitfalls, and Policies: Social Media and the Fire Service

Rachel Neutzler - Director of Communication, Lake Travis Fire Rescue

Rachel Neutzler serves as the Director of Communications for Lake Travis Fire Rescue, overseeing all public information and media relations efforts. A graduate of the University of Texas at Austin with a Bachelor of Science in Public Relations, Neutzler also holds a Master of Science in Communications from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. She is recognized as a Master Public Information Officer by the Emergency Management Institute and as a Credentialed Public Information Officer by the Center for Public Safety Excellence.

Before joining Lake Travis Fire Rescue, Neutzler served as the Communications Director and Captain over Operational Support for the Harris County Fire Marshal’s Office. In that role, she responded to major emergencies, including the Arkema plant fire, ITC tank farm fire, and KMCO plant fire. Her leadership during Hurricane Harvey earned her several honors, including the Golden Mic Award, a Letter of Commendation, the Humanitarian Service Award, and the Meritorious Team Commendation.

Her previous experience also includes serving as lead PIO for the West and Athens fertilizer plant explosions while with the State Fire Marshal’s Office. Additionally, she managed social media for the Texas Office of the Attorney General. Neutzler currently serves as a principal member of the NFPA 1035 committee and teaches FEMA’s Basic, Advanced, and Master PIO courses.

Abstract

In today’s fast-paced, hyperconnected environment, social media can elevate a fire department’s brand, build public trust, and support recruitment. It can also rapidly erode confidence, amplify controversies, and expose agencies to significant liability. This one-hour session explores how social media shapes public perception, highlights common pitfalls first responder agencies face, and outlines policy best practices to protect your personnel and your organization.

The stakes are uniquely high. You are not only delivering critical services, you are stewarding public funds, building long-term trust with your community, and operating under scrutiny from taxpayers, board members, and elected officials. In that environment, one misstep on social media, whether it is an off-duty comment, a scene photo, or a viral video, can quickly become more than a moment of poor judgment. It can turn into a reputational crisis, a legal challenge, or a threat to your credibility and funding.

TCFP NFPA 1850 Update

Rick Wallace - Division Chief Compliance, Texas Commission on Fire Protection

Rick Wallace currently serves as Division Chief of Compliance with the Texas Commission on Fire Protection (TCFP) and brings over 30 years of experience in the fire service. Throughout his career, he has served in multiple roles, including Head of Academy and leader of professional development and training programs. A Master Firefighter and Master Instructor, Rick has contributed extensively to advancing firefighter education and standards across Texas.

He has served on numerous ad hoc committees as well as the TCFP Testing and Curriculum Committee, where his expertise has helped shape firefighter certification and training practices. Rick holds a Bachelor of Science in Occupational Health and Safety, with a concentration in Firefighter Health and Safety. A seasoned presenter, he has shared his knowledge and experience at multiple conferences, focusing on improving safety, compliance, and professional growth within the fire service.

Abstract

Abstract: Implementation of NFPA 1850 Structural and Proximity Firefighting PPE & SCBA Program This presentation provides an overview of the organizational responsibilities, procedures, and record-keeping requirements outlined in NFPA 1850 for the selection, care, maintenance, inspection, cleaning, storage, and retirement of structural and proximity firefighting ensembles, ensemble elements, and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).

Key topics include the development and administration of a comprehensive Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Program, the appointment of a Personal Protective Clothing (PPC) Manager, and the creation of written Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) defining program roles, responsibilities, and safety practices. Emphasis is placed on protecting both fire service personnel and the public from exposure to contaminated PPE and SCBA.

The presentation will outline requirements for:

Risk assessment and selection processes before purchase and deployment of PPE and SCBA.
Inspection, advanced cleaning, and decontamination procedures aligned with exposure type, including special provisions for lithium-ion battery and combustion-related contaminants.
Record keeping and documentation of PPE issuance, cleaning, inspection, repair, and retirement.
Training requirements for personnel managing or maintaining PPE and SCBA.
Environmental and wastewater compliance associated with cleaning operations.
SCBA program management, including inspection frequency, maintenance, contamination control, and end-of-service criteria.

By integrating NFPA 1850 and related NFPA standards, the program ensures PPE and SCBA are maintained in a state of readiness, provide the intended level of protection, and support a culture of firefighter health and safety.

The Shift to 24/72

Chris Biggerstaff - Fire Chief, Plano Fire-Rescue

Chris Biggerstaff began his fire service career on March 4, 1991, with the Garland Fire Department. In 1992, he continued his career with Plano Fire-Rescue, where he has served for the past 33 years. He currently serves as Plano Fire-Rescue’s Fire Chief and is active with multiple organizations in Dallas and Collin Counties.

He holds a Master’s degree in Leadership with an emphasis in Disaster Preparedness and Executive Fire Leadership from Grand Canyon University. He is also a graduate of the National Fire Academy’s Executive Fire Officer Program and the International Association of Fire Chiefs Fire Service Executive Development Institute.

Jeff Moberley - Assistant Chief, Plano Fire-Rescue

Speaker Bio Coming Soon.

Abstract

If you are interested in the 24/72 schedule (42-hour work week), this presentation will cover how Plano Fire-Rescue worked with City Management/City Council and Plano Professional Firefighters Association to develop a plan to transition to a 24/72 schedule. We will go into how the discussions started with City Management and the parameters that were provided, which included both sides financially contributing to the plan. We will look at what developing the plan included and why putting the actual cost for the plan at each phase helped us be successful in the end. We will also look at what kind of communications helped Plano firefighters come to a place where they would have a 96% approval of an eight-year contract that would include pay freezes and overtime reduction.

Although the path to a 24/72 schedule will look different for each department, we believe that if you are interested in this schedule, this presentation will provide steps that would be common to most departments. Attendees will get a firsthand account of the obstacles and lessons learned working through the meet-and-confer process and ultimately getting the contract done.

People Problems in the Workplace: "What we have here is a failure to communicate."

Michael McCall - Founder, Protection For All (PFA) Consulting

Mike McCall, J.D., has provided personnel risk management training and consultation to over 700 emergency services organizations across the country over the last 29 years. Mike specializes in developing programs addressing work-related harassment, discrimination, retaliation, anti-bias, conflict management, and interpersonal working relationship challenges. He is a published author of the “Employment Practices Resource Manual”, a risk management guide for emergency services agencies, and developed an anti-bias training program in 2021 titled “Differences Without Division”.

Mike also works with athletics organizations to address harassment, discrimination, retaliation, emotionally abusive coaching, bullying, hazing, physical misconduct, sexual misconduct, and other wrongdoing. He has personally trained and consulted with the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC); professional sports franchises (e.g., Houston Texans); and universities, such as Alabama, Cincinnati, Clemson, Connecticut, Florida, Illinois, Iowa, Louisville, LSU, Miami (FL), Minnesota, New Mexico, Northwestern, Purdue, Stephen F. Austin, Rice, and Rutgers.

Mike graduated with distinction from the University of Oklahoma with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Letters and was named a member of Phi Beta Kappa. He subsequently studied law at Oxford University in Great Britain and received his Juris Doctor degree from the University of Oklahoma College of Law.

Abstract

Quoting the movie classic, Cool Hand Luke, "What we have here is a failure to communicate." Employment practices litigation and other personnel problems are often traced back to poor interpersonal communications and conflict management skills. By communicating early and with consistent empathy, fire service leaders can avoid costly and time-consuming employment litigation, investigations, and public relations nightmares. Your presenter has worked with over 700 emergency services organizations over the last 29 years to mitigate personnel issues and will provide practical, thought-provoking information to take back to your Department.

Texas Fire Chief Best Practices

Niel Howard - Director Texas Fire Chief Best Practices Program, Texas Fire Chief Best Practices

Neil Howard retired in 2024 after a distinguished 42 year career in the fire service, marked by strong leadership, proactive training initiatives, and a deep commitment to interagency collaboration. As Fire Chief of Rowlett, he gained statewide recognition for his decisive leadership during the 2015 EF 4 tornado, where a tornado drill he had conducted just months earlier proved instrumental in saving lives and managing large scale chaos. Under his leadership, Rowlett became only the fourth department in Texas to achieve Best Practices recognition. Seeing the value of the program firsthand, Howard joined the TFCA Best Practices Committee in 2016, later serving as Co Chair and then Chair. Upon his retirement, the TFCA Board welcomed his continued involvement, and he now serves as Director of the rapidly growing Best Practices Program. Prior to his tenure in Rowlett, Howard spent most of his career with the McKinney Fire Department, rising through the ranks to Assistant Fire Chief.

Abstract

Abstract Details Coming Soon.

Using AI to Work Smarter: How Fire Chiefs Can Simplify Strategic Planning, Policy Writing, and Everyday Leadership Tasks

Kyle McAfee - Fire Cheif, Selma Fire Department

Chief Kyle McAfee serves as the Fire Chief, Fire Marshal, and Emergency Management Coordinator for the City of Selma, Texas. With 38 years of experience in the fire service, he has served in every rank from firefighter to chief officer, leading both large and small departments across Texas. His career has focused on developing people, improving processes, and finding practical solutions to the daily challenges of running a modern fire department.

Chief McAfee holds a Bachelor of Science in Fire Science Administration, is a Certified Public Manager, a graduate of the Texas Fire Chiefs Academy, and a Fire Service Chief Executive Officer (FSCEO). Over the course of his career, he has led major initiatives in strategic planning, apparatus replacement, professional development, and interagency collaboration. His leadership has helped multiple organizations strengthen efficiency, morale, and long-term vision.

Believing that technology can help smaller departments overcome big challenges, Chief McAfee has become an advocate for integrating Artificial Intelligence into the fire service. His down-to-earth leadership style and willingness to embrace innovation, even after nearly four decades in the job, serve as proof that an old dog can still learn new tricks, and that forward-thinking leadership is possible at any stage of a fire service career.

Abstract

Running a fire department today means wearing more hats than ever—chief, planner, grant writer, communicator, and strategist. For smaller departments, this can stretch limited staff and time to the breaking point. This session explores how Artificial Intelligence (AI) can act as a reliable assistant to help leaders manage the daily workload more efficiently. Chief Kyle McAfee will share real examples of how AI can assist with strategic planning, policy, and SOG development, training program design, and even public communications. Participants will learn simple ways to integrate AI into their workflow safely and effectively, without needing to be a tech expert. This practical session will show how AI can help every department, regardless of size, save time, improve clarity, and operate more efficiently while staying focused on people and purpose.

Leadership 1: A Masterclass in Leadership Mental Wellness

Jason Corthell - Division Chief - CEO, Harris County Emergency Services District 13 - Ironclad Wellness

Jason Corthell serves as Division Chief over Health and Wellness for Harris County ESD 13 and is the CEO of Ironclad Wellness, where he leads the charge in implementing innovative wellness programs across Texas. As a frequent and sought-after national speaker on first responder mental health, Jason has become a powerful advocate for breaking stigma and advancing the conversation around leadership and mental wellness in the fire service. His passion is now focused on empowering fire service leaders—not only to care for their teams but also to prioritize their own well-being.

Jason is currently pursuing a Master of Education in Marriage and Family Therapy at Lamar University Graduate School, furthering his expertise in supporting first responders and their families. He resides in Hockley, Texas with his beautiful wife, Patty and three awesome kids. When he’s not championing wellness or studying, Jason can be found enjoying live sports, soaking up live music, or spending relaxing Sundays by the pool with his family.

Abstract

"Leadership 1: A Master Class in Leadership Wellness" by Jason Corthell is designed to empower fire service leaders with the tools, motivation, and knowledge needed to lead from the front—without stigma and without perpetuating the low morale that too often plagues our profession. This dynamic session will equip participants to recognize and address the mental health challenges that impact leadership effectiveness and organizational culture in the fire service.

Through engaging discussion and real-world case studies highlighting critical incidents where leadership fell short, attendees will learn to identify common mental health pitfalls and develop strategies to avoid them. The course will emphasize proactive approaches to building resilient teams, fostering open dialogue, and creating an environment where personnel feel safe and supported to seek help when needed.

Participants will leave with actionable insights and practical takeaways to enhance their own wellness as leaders, strengthen their organizations, and set a new standard for leadership in the fire service—one that prioritizes mental health, reduces stigma, and ultimately saves lives.

Do You Have Enough FirefightersE

Ruy Lozano - Fire Chief, New Braunfels Fire Department

Fire Chief Ruy Lozano is a seasoned fire service leader with over three decades of experience in emergency response, public safety, and organizational leadership. Currently serving as the Fire Chief for the City of New Braunfels, Texas, Chief Lozano is known for his strategic vision, commitment to firefighter wellness, and dedication to community-centered service.

Chief Lozano began his fire service career with the Houston Fire Department, where he rose to the rank of Assistant Fire Chie serving in key leadership roles in Operations, Public Information, and Community Outreach. His career has been marked by a focus on innovation, interagency collaboration, and the development of future fire service leaders.

He is a strong advocate for data-driven decision-making and has led initiatives to improve staffing models, enhance emergency preparedness, and modernize fire department operations. A respected voice in the fire service community, Chief Lozano has earned a degree in Communications focused in Public Relation from the University of Houston and an MBA from Rice University. He is deeply committed to mentoring the next generation of fire professionals and fostering a culture of human-center innovation, accountability, and excellence.

Chief Lozano continues to lead with purpose, ensuring the safety of both his personnel and the citizens and was recently recognized by Texas Municipal League with the 2025 Excellence Award in Public Safety.

Abstract

Effective fire department staffing is critical to ensuring public safety, operational readiness, and firefighter well-being. Calculating appropriate staffing levels requires a comprehensive understanding of obligated hours—defined as the total number of hours personnel are scheduled to work—and the impact of paid leave, including vacation, sick leave, holidays, deployments, and other forms of authorized time off. This presentation outlines a methodology for determining optimal staffing by analyzing the total annual obligated hours per position, subtracting average paid leave usage, and accounting for minimum staffing requirements per shift. The approach includes calculating the Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) needed to maintain coverage, factoring in leave trends, and applying a relief factor to ensure adequate personnel are available without over-reliance on overtime. This staffing model supports strategic planning, budget forecasting, and sustainable workforce management in fire service operations.

Why Would Anyone Want to Be Led by You?

Keith Hopkins - Fire Chief, Mesquite Fire Department

Keith Hopkins has been a proud member of the Mesquite Fire Department for 26 years. He began his career in 1999 after leaving corporate America to find something he was truly passionate about. The fire service has been that calling. He has a desire to build extaordinary leaders through one on one mentorship and sharing life experiences with leaders at all phases of their careers.

Keith currently serves as the Fire Chief for the Mesquite Fire Department where he has worked his entire career. He has been married to his wife Amy for 34 years and they have 3 amazing daughters, 2 son-in-laws and 1 awesome grandson. Keith is a proud graduate of Baylor University where he received a Bachelor's Degree in Communications.

Abstract

Firefighters are a special group of people who experience unusual circumstances that require extraordinary leadership. Sharing strategies and techniques is how we, as an industry, continue to serve a rapidly changing workforce. This class will help provide strategies for becoming an effective leader in the fire service.

Due to our non-traditional work environment, our leadership strategies must be both consistent and flexible to meet the needs of our changing environment. How and where we lead people will determine our legacy and the future of our industry. This presentation will provide strategies to become the leader people want to follow. Participants will walk away with practical ideas to immediately implement in their leadership journey.

The ROI of Readiness: Eight Years of Proven Returns from Investing in Firefighter Health

Vanessa Frost-Piedrahita - Health & Fitness Coordinator, Travis County Emergency Services District #2

Vanessa Frost-Piedrahita is the Health & Fitness Coordinator for the Pflugerville Fire Department, where she has overseen all aspects of firefighter health, wellness, and performance since 2016. She brings over a decade of coaching experience—including her time as a collegiate strength and conditioning coach—to her work in the fire service, where she focuses on movement quality, injury reduction, and long-term performance using research-backed and realistic strategies. Vanessa holds a Master’s in Kinesiology and a Bachelor’s in Biological Sciences from Southern Illinois University and is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist with distinction and a Registered Strength & Conditioning Coach through the National Strength & Conditioning Association. She also holds credentials in pregnancy and postpartum training, mobility, and resilience. Through her work at the department and her online platform, Firefighter Strength Coach, Vanessa is committed to helping firefighters do strong work, build strong minds, and live strong lives.

Bobby Ortiz - Battalion Chief, Travis County Emergency Services District #2

Bobby Ortiz is a Battalion Chief with Travis County ESD 2, bringing more than 22 years of fire service experience to the organization. He oversees eight stations and 67 personnel across two battalions, leads the department’s Robotics/UAS Group and SCBA Program, and serves as a Blue Card Instructor at the Command Training Center, where he has taught since 2015.

A graduate of the Texas Fire Chiefs Academy and the Battalion Chiefs Academy, Bobby also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Organizational Leadership from Texas A&M–Commerce. He is an active member of the IAFC Technology Council, contributing to national conversations on innovation, technology integration, and the future of the fire service.

Bobby is passionate about leadership development and mentorship, frequently presenting on coaching, culture, and preparing the next generation of officers. He is known for his leadership philosophy: “A leader’s legacy is written in the people they’ve prepared to lead next.

Abstract

Firefighter wellness isn’t just a feel-good initiative—it’s a measurable investment with proven returns. Over eight years, Travis County ESD #2’s Health & Fitness Program has delivered quantifiable results through improved readiness, reduced injuries, and lower costs. Despite tripling in size, the department maintained 92–97% pass rates on major fitness assessments while cutting workers’ compensation costs per firefighter nearly in half.

This session breaks down how to measure, communicate, and sustain those outcomes using ROI modeling and clear data storytelling. Attendees will gain practical tools to evaluate program impact, secure leadership buy-in, and show how investing in firefighter health strengthens both operational performance and fiscal responsibility.

Building a Culture of Awareness and Preparedness: Success in Texas

Dustin Dunn - Wildfire Mitigation Specialist, Lake Travis Fire Rescue

Dustin Dunn works as a Certified Wildfire Mitigation Specialist at Lake Travis Fire Rescue and nearly two years ago received his certification. Every day he strives to make his community more resilient to the ever-growing risk of wildfire.

Jason Key - Regional Director - Growth, Fire Aside

Jason Key is a seasoned veteran in the public sector, specializing in empowering state and local public safety agencies to overcome the technical and budgetary barriers to modern wildfire mitigation. His success is guided by the philosophy that we must always support those who serve, ensuring their mission remains achievable.

Abstract

Lake Travis Fire Rescue has been at the forefront of thoughtful, effective tactics as the risk of wildfire in Travis County and surrounding regions continues to grow.

According to the state comptroller’s office, over the last two decades, over 243,000 separate wildfires have burned nearly 14 million acres. In 2024, the Smokehouse Creek Fire scorched over 1 million acres — the largest in state history. Around two-thirds of Travis County’s homes are in the WUI, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced resiliency.

In 2024, the Office of the Texas State Climatologist noted that, overall, the state is getting hotter. As more people come to Texas, many are moving to parts of the state where land is cheaper, in the wildland-urban interface (WUI). In the meantime, all Texans are quickly discovering that their homeowners’ insurance is skyrocketing.

Put simply, the wildfire problem is getting worse, and Texas’s approach – particularly at the local level – must adapt.

The LTFR is showing a new way forward.

After attending this presentation, attendees will learn how to:

Build a culture within a community
Counter misinformation
Implement educational programs that can withstand resident turnover
Streamline fuel mitigation programs

Building Smart: Budgeting Strategies for Your Next Fire Station

Derek Bird - Director of Operations Central Texas, AG|CM

Derek Bird, CCM, CQM-C, is a construction executive with more than 18 years of experience delivering public-safety facilities across Texas. As Director of Operations for AG|CM’s Central Texas region since 2021, he leads owner’s representation and construction management from planning and budgeting through procurement, scheduling, construction, and commissioning. His fire and public-safety portfolio includes Bexar County ESD 8 Station #3 in Helotes (9,000 SF, $5M); two stations for Comal County ESD 3 in Canyon Lake (each 8,177 SF, two stories, two apparatus bays); the Hays County ESD 8 Buda Fire Station/EMS complex (44,000 SF with administration and training); the City of Kyle Public Safety Building (63,000 SF, $35M integrating fire administration and police operations); and the City of Selma Police and Fire Training Center ($7M with indoor range, burn towers, driver course, and support facilities). Derek applies rigorous critical-path scheduling, disciplined cost control, and proactive risk management to keep programs on time and within budget while protecting scope and quality. He partners effectively with architects, engineers, contractors, and ESD leadership to align facilities with staffing models, response times, and long-term maintenance objectives. Backed by OSHA 10-Hour training and active CMAA involvement, Derek brings clear communication, accountable leadership, and an owner-first mindset to every fire-station project.

Spencer Clark - Client Relations Director, AG|CM

Spencer Clark, CCM, is AG|CM’s Director of Client Relations and a client advocate dedicated to elevating the experience of public-safety owners from first conversation to ribbon cutting. Since joining AG|CM in 2016, he has focused on understanding the operational realities of Emergency Services Districts (ESDs), municipalities, and county agencies, translating their priorities into clear scopes, disciplined budgets, and responsive project teams. Backed by AG|CM’s deep public-safety portfolio—which spans fire training facilities, county sheriff stations, and municipal fire, police, and EMS stations—Spencer connects leaders with specialists who know how to deliver mission-critical facilities without surprises. He helps clients set decision milestones, align design with staffing models and response-time goals, and maintain transparent communication so stakeholders stay informed and confident. His background as Project Manager in the A/E/C industry give him a practical grasp of risk, procurement, and constructability; his relationship focus ensures every interaction is proactive, respectful of staff time, and geared toward measurable outcomes. With AG|CM’s track record of serving counties and ESD clients across Texas, Spencer brings an informed, owner-first perspective to each engagement—so public-safety teams get the stations, training space, and infrastructure they need to serve their communities well.

Abstract

Planning and constructing a new fire station is a major investment for any Emergency Services District (ESD). This session will guide ESD boards and district leadership through the budgeting process, highlighting industry-standard allocations for design and construction, as well as all associated costs. Attendees will gain practical tips and proven strategies to anticipate hidden expenses, avoid common pitfalls, and ensure financial readiness. Drawing on more than $1 billion in public-sector capital improvement projects, this presentation will equip decision-makers with the tools to budget effectively and deliver stations that meet community needs on time and on budget.

One Job One Standard: How Aerobic Capacity Standards in NFPA 1580 Affect Operational Staffing and What You Can Do To Mitigate Risk

Mike Conner - CEO, Front Line Mobile Health

Mike Conner is the Chief Executive Officer of Front Line Mobile Health and brings more than 25 years of military leadership and medical experience to the fire service. He began his career in the U.S. Army as an Infantry officer, serving as a platoon leader, company commander, and staff officer from Battalion through Division level. After transitioning from the Infantry, he earned his master’s degree in Physician Assistant Studies through the Interservice Physician Assistant Program and later served as the primary care manager for a U.S. Army Cavalry Squadron, training EMTs and teaching lifesaving skills to non-medical personnel. He deployed multiple times to Iraq and Afghanistan in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.

Mike went on to serve as a lecturer and clinical preceptor for the Interservice PA Program at Fort Hood, and later earned his Flight Surgeon qualification, becoming the aeromedical PA responsible for the health and readiness of more than 300 aviators while also practicing as a neurosurgery PA. He subsequently became Chief of Clinical Operations for the 2nd Infantry Division, overseeing medical readiness for over 11,000 soldiers, and later worked as an independent medical consultant.

Driven by a passion for improving first responder health through education and research, Mike is an active member of the American College of Cardiology, the National Strength and Conditioning Association, and the National Fire Protection Association.

Jacob Mota - Assistant Professor of Kinesiology, Texas Tech | Neuromuscular & Occupational Performance Lab

Dr. Jacob Mota is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management at Texas Tech University, where he directs the Neuromuscular and Occupational Performance Laboratory. His work focuses on the physiological and neuromuscular mechanisms that shape performance, fatigue, and injury risk in physically demanding occupations. He has published extensively in these areas, with research spanning strength and power development, task-specific performance testing, shift-work fatigue, and muscle function assessment using tools such as EMG, ultrasound, and transcranial magnetic stimulation. Before entering academia, Dr. Mota served as a firefighter, an experience that shaped his long-term commitment to improving the health, readiness, and safety of the fire service. His lab now partners with departments across the country to conduct field and laboratory studies that translate sport-science principles into practical strategies for first responders. He has secured funding at the industry, foundational, and federal levels and remains active the field. Dr. Mota’s work reflects a simple goal: provide actionable, evidence-based solutions that help firefighters perform at a high level while staying healthy throughout and following their careers.

Abstract

The shift from NFPA 1582 to NFPA 1580 represents one of the most consequential changes to firefighter medical readiness in decades. NFPA 1582 used a single aerobic capacity benchmark tied to the job's physical demands. NFPA 1580 replaces that benchmark with age- and sex-based percentiles taken from the general population - people who do not wear bunker gear, climb ladders, drag hose, or make rescues under extreme heat.

This change creates real operational risk. Older firefighters may now be cleared for full duty despite lower aerobic capacity, while younger firefighters with stronger fitness profiles can be classified as restricted solely because of how the percentile system works. Chiefs relying on these classifications for staffing, deployment, and return-to-work decisions may unknowingly place personnel at increased cardiac risk or unintentionally sideline capable firefighters.

Understanding the distinctions between these standards is essential. Fireground demands don't adjust by age or sex. One job requires one standard. Chiefs must ensure their readiness policies reflect the actual work, not shifting population averages, to protect firefighter safety and operational effectiveness.

Mike Conner and Jacob Mota work with fire service leaders across the nation to mitigate risk, reduce operational staffing concerns, and keep communities safe.

Building Financial Strength in First Responder Families

Nick Daugherty - Retired Sergeant / CEO, FinancialCop

Nick Daugherty began his career with the Grand Prairie Police Department in 2003, promoting to sergeant in 2012 before later serving as a reserve officer until fully retiring in 2023.

Early in life, Nick struggled with money, accumulating more than $80,000 in consumer debt on cars, credit cards, and vacations. Caught in the overtime cycle just to stay afloat, he committed to change—using the debt snowball method and working over a thousand hours of overtime to become completely debt-free in 2007.

In 2011, GPPD Chief Steve Dye asked Nick to develop a financial wellness program for the department. What began as internal training quickly grew across the DFW area, throughout Texas, and eventually nationwide.

Known for teaching financial wellness in simple, relatable terms tailored to first responders, Nick’s course, Building Financial Strength in First Responder Families, has now reached more than 50,000 first responders through agencies, academies, national conferences, and leadership organizations.

Nick is the owner of FinancialCop, the nation’s leading first responder–owned financial wellness training group, as well as a fiduciary-only financial planning firm dedicated to helping first responders retire on their own terms.

Abstract

Fire service leaders know that financial stress doesn’t stay at home—it follows members into the station, impacts mental wellness, and affects performance at every rank. This session provides a comprehensive, first responder–focused approach to financial wellness, equipping chiefs and their personnel with the tools to build stability, reduce stress, and support healthier, more resilient teams.

Designed for everyone from new recruits to command staff, this course breaks down essential financial topics in clear, relatable terms. Key areas include: Budgeting for First Responders using the Fire Attack Plan, understanding the mental health impacts of debt, preparing families through wills, estate planning, and the Legacy Go-Bag, and navigating the complexities of life insurance, pension systems, and retirement accounts such as 457, 401(k), 403(b), IRA, and Roth options. Attendees will also learn how to interrogate financial advisors, avoid common financial pitfalls in the fire service, and apply the 8 Phases of Financial Training—a proven framework to help members strengthen their financial position at every stage of their career.

Whether you're leading a department or guiding the next generation of firefighters, this session provides the knowledge firefighter families need to build long-term financial strength and retire with confidence.

Fire Departments and the State Fire Marshal's Office

Chuck Allen - Assistant State Fire Marshal, State Fire Marshal's Office

I have been with TDI/SFMO since June 2016, where I started as a fire/life safety inspector. I rose through the ranks as a lieutenant and captain. I became the Assistant State Fire Marshal in September 2023. I have a bachelor's degree from West Texas A&M in Emergency Management and a master’s degree from Grand Canyon University in Leadership with an Emphasis in Disaster Preparedness and Executive Fire Leadership. I am a master fire inspector, fire/arson investigator, as well as a master peace officer. I am a field training officer and a certified fraud examiner. I have over 35 years of experience in the public safety industry (Fire, EMS, Law Enforcement) which includes private sector, municipal, county, and state governments. I have spent time in criminal investigations, patrol supervisor both with a sheriff’s office. I created a county fire marshal/emergency management office from the ground up.

Eric DeArmitt - Engineer-PPC Oversight Officer, State Fire Marshal's Office

Speaker Bio Coming Soon.

Debra Knight - State Fire Marshal, State Fire Marshal's Office

Speaker Bio Coming Soon.

Learning Objectives

The audience will be able to understand how the SFMO responds to requests for fire investigations.
The audience will be able to demonstrate how reporting to NERIS can proactively help their department and the State to tell the fire story.
The audience will have an understanding of the different aspects of an investigation of a fallen or critically injured firefighter.
The audience will be provided an update on the ISO/PPC surveys.

Hidden Talent, Shared Wisdom: Unlocking the Power of Peer-Led Development in the Fire Service

Daniel Anderson - Deputy Chief - Professional Standards, Cy-Fair Fire Department

Daniel Anderson serves as the Battalion Chief of Suppression Training for the Cy-Fair Fire Department (Houston, TX) with two decades of fire service experience. His extensive background encompasses suppression, training program development and delivery, and public education.

Chief Anderson is a member of Texas Commission on Fire Protection's (TCFP) Fire Fighter Advisory Committee. He has completed coursework in Fire Protection Technology and Emergency Management Administration. His dedication to service and community engagement was recognized in 2023 with the Cy-Fair Fire Department's Mark Braswell Public Relations Member of the Year award.

A Master Instructor holding numerous certifications, Chief Anderson is a graduate of the National Fire Academy's Managing Officer (MO) Program and the TEEX Fire Service Executive Fire Officer (FSCEO) program. He holds the designation of Certified Public Manager (CPM) from the William P. Hobby Center for Public Service and maintains a Training Officer Credential from the International Association of Fire Service Instructors (ISFSI).

Abstract

In today’s fast-paced, complex work environment, most fire departments are actively seeking new ways to upskill and develop their people. What if your next great instructor or innovator isn’t from an outside organization or senior leadership…but sitting next to you in the firehouse kitchen?

Our departments are full of untapped knowledge and expertise. Peer-to-peer learning can help valuable skills surface and become useful to the entire organization. In this session, I’ll share how my department created a professional development showcase that empowered team members to teach, learn, and lead from within. We will cover:

What a professional development showcase is
The many benefits of peer-to-peer learning, which include boosting skills, uncovering hidden talents, strengthening inter-divisional trust, and building a true learning culture
Why including an audience-feedback component is so valuable
How leaders can use these events to manage and position their team members more effectively
A replicable model for holding your own professional development showcase, including specific tactics and best practices to consider

Building an Effective Leadership Training Program for Newly Promoted Officers: Why It’s No Longer Optional, and How to Get Started

Mike Clements - Assistant Chief, Cy-Fair Fire Department

Mike Clements currently serves as an assistant chief with the Cy-Fair Fire Department in Houston, TX. Mike retired from the City of College Station (TX) Fire Department as a battalion chief. During his career with CSFD, Mike served two terms as President of the College Station Professional Firefighters Association, IAFF Local 4511. Mike is the author of Practical Leadership for Newly Promoted Fire Officers (Fire Engineering Books, Fall 2025).

Mike earned Chief Fire Officer (CFO) designation from the Center for Public Safety Excellence and is an Executive Fire Officer (EFO) from the National Fire Academy. He is a senior certified professional with the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM-SCP). Mike has a passion for training newly promoted fire officers. Mike has a master’s degree in public administration from Stephen F. Austin State and an undergraduate degree from Texas A&M University. Mike is married to Erin Clements and has two wonderful children.

Abstract

Across Texas, many fire departments are adding stations, equipment, and personnel at a rapid pace. Newly promoted officers are finding themselves in crucial roles without the mentorship or experience their predecessors enjoyed. While we can’t offer these leaders a long “growing season,” we can bridge the experience gap with structured leadership training. This isn’t an optional skill—leadership competency helps us optimize technical training and ultimately translates into improved performance, teamwork, and service delivery.

Mike ea This session will explore how investing in leadership development strengthens every level of the organization, helping departments manage growth and change. With command staff involved in training, relationships are built across ranks, giving new leaders an early sense of connection, belonging, and trust in the organization. What’s more, teaching the same set of leadership skills to all rising officers reduces variance, creates a common language, and ensures that leadership practices align with the department’s values and mission. (This is especially important because culture can easily be diluted by an influx of new hires.) Finally, when frontline leaders are equipped to recognize and resolve problems early, it frees up senior leaders to focus on strategic issues.

Mike ea Mike Clements, author of Practical Leadership for Newly Promoted Fire Officers, will share a variety of tools and strategies to help new officers lead with clarity, confidence, and purpose, including:

Insights into managing the Toxic Triad: Fear-Ego-Pride
How to navigate pushback to organizational changes
The dos and don’ts of mentoring and developing employees
The keys to conflict resolution: how to have difficult conversations and manage workplace drama
Best practices for communicating clearly, effectively, and empathetically, including how to invite and give feedback
Creating a culture of psychological safety and supporting employees’ mental health

Site Feasibility and Budget-Based Programming for Fire Station Planning

Justin Myers - Architect, Martinez Architects

Ricardo Martinez - Architect, Martinez Architects

Justin and Ricardo are founding partners of Martinez Architects, a leading fire station design firm based in Texas, with work throughout the southwest region. They have worked on design of well over 100 fire stations in the last 10 years, including dozens of award-winning designs.

Justin and Ricardo have given presentations at numerous and various fire station-related conferences over the years, and serve as board members for the Texas Fire Dept. Facilities Best Practices Conference, as well as for Clean Public Safety Building (Clean PSB), a national coalition effort toward improving the health and wellness of Emergency Responders.

Abstract

This presentation will be a fast-paced survey of the unique challenges faced across more than a dozen unique fire station sites and building programs, including a discussion of the problem-solving process and best practices for that process, and the ultimate solution -- as well as highlights of the pros and cons of that solution, looking back later and in the context of other projects.

Site challenges topics will include easements, grading, drainage, existing conditions, trees, utilities, site access and apparatus turning, construction site logistics, community design guidelines, security, and planning for future site development.

Building program considerations will include training programs, privacy vs. community, dorm/locker arrangements, public spaces, etc.

See what successes (and mistakes) many other departments have experienced in site selection and building planning so your department can apply their lessons learned.

Data-Driven Response: Leveraging NERIS and Operational Platforms to Master Fireground Readiness

Robbi King - Director of Solutions Engineers (Asst. Chief, Ret., Vector Solutions

Robbi King spent 27 years in public safety, including 13 years with Camden County, GA, Fire Rescue where he reached the rank of Assistant Chief. He also served more than 13 years as deputy coroner at the Camden County Coroner’s Office. As assistant chief in Camden County, King helped the agency with firefighting support, management of logistics, and administration of Vector Solutions’ training management platform. He now serves as a Director of Solutions Engineers with Vector Solutions.

Abstract

Last year, we explored the critical importance of Operational Readiness—defining what it means for Texas fire departments and identifying the key performance areas (KPAs) that demand our focus.

For 2026, it is time to turn insight into action. This session moves beyond theory to provide Fire Chiefs with a practical, step-by-step methodology for achieving measurable operational readiness, regardless of department size.

We will focus on answering the most critical question facing today's leadership: How do we convert raw incident data into specific, targeted improvements in response capability?

This presentation will guide attendees through a proven process to:

Exploit Data Sources: Learn how to extract, clean, and utilize the valuable data points available through national systems like the National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS) and real-time operational platforms.
Deconstruct the Response: Utilize data analytics to break down the total operational response (from dispatch to scene mitigation) into discrete, measurable segments (turnout time, travel time, task completion time).
Prescribe Readiness Training: Identify precise operational weaknesses based on quantifiable metrics and use these insights to tailor training and resource allocation, drastically increasing proficiency and efficiency.

Leading From Day One: A Chief Officer’s Roadmap for Culture, Communication, and Operational Transformation

Brent Shanklin - Assistant Chief, Arlington Fire Department

Brent Shanklin is a 30-year fire service veteran and the Assistant Chief of Operations for the Arlington Fire Department. His position includes overseeing daily operations for a 420-member department that responds to over 60,000 calls each year. He has a strong passion for teaching and training, with a focus on developing confident officers and building a mission-ready department. His work emphasizes clear expectations, communication, and practical leadership development. Chief Shanklin holds a bachelor’s degree in Fire Administration from Texas A&M University–San Antonio. He demonstrates an approachable leadership style and a commitment to organizational excellence, bringing a practical, real-world perspective to the challenges and opportunities facing today’s fire service leaders.

Abstract

Leading From Day One is all about what it really takes to step into a chief officer role and make a positive impact right from the start. The first year in an executive position brings a mix of excitement, pressure, and high expectations, and it’s easy to feel pulled in several directions at once. This class takes a practical, honest look at that transition and offers guidance based on real experiences from the first year in the seat.

We’ll cover how to build credibility early, strengthen communication with officers and crews, and read the culture you’re walking into so you can influence it without disrupting stability. You’ll hear about what worked, what didn’t, and the adjustments that helped create trust and momentum.

Whether you’re new to a chief-level role, preparing for one, or helping others make that step, Leading From Day One provides clear, usable strategies to help you navigate the transition with confidence and set the tone for success.

Silent Fires: When the Rescuer Can’t Rescue — Confronting Addiction and Ending the Silence in Leadership

Michael Thomson - Fire Chief, Carrollton Fire Rescue

Michael Thomson serves as the Fire Chief for the City of Carrollton, Texas, bringing more than 27 years of municipal public safety experience. His fire service career began in 1998 as a volunteer firefighter in Canada before joining the Farmers Branch Fire Department in 2002, where he advanced to Division Chief of Training and EMS. He later served as Deputy Fire Chief for the Town of Addison and as Fire Chief for the City of Highland Village before assuming command in Carrollton. Chief Thomson is committed to excellence and continuous development. He holds an Associate and Bachelor of Science in Fire Science from Columbia Southern University and a Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership with a concentration in Executive Fire and Rescue Leadership from Waldorf University. His professional credentials include Head of Department certification, multiple Master-level firefighting certifications, Fire Officer IV, Incident Safety Officer, Fire Instructor, and Texas Licensed Paramedic. He is also a credentialed Chief Fire Executive through the Texas Fire Chiefs Association and a Fire Service Chief Executive Officer through Texas A&M University. A passionate community advocate, Chief Thomson has served on the United Way of Denton County Board since 2019, holding roles on the Partner Agency Grant Review Committee, Campaign Cabinet (including Campaign Chair), Finance and Administration Committee, and the Executive Board, where he currently serves as the Board Chair.

Tiffany Thomson - Chief Relations Officer/Coach/Facilitator

Tiffany Thomson brings more than 23 years of municipal government leadership experience, including a 20-year career where she retired after serving in key executive roles such as Director of Human Resources, Director of Municipal Court & Customer Service, Director of Animal Services, and Interim Assistant City Manager. Her work has consistently focused on strengthening organizational culture, improving communication, supporting employee wellness, and leading people through high-pressure, high-impact environments with clarity and compassion. Tiffany holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Columbia Southern University and a Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership from Waldorf University.

After retiring, Tiffany launched her own leadership training, consulting, and coaching company, partnering with public-sector and nonprofit organizations to build healthier teams, strengthen trust, and help leaders communicate with authenticity. As a Certified CliftonStrengths Coach, she is known for her real, raw, and honest approach—removing the filters that often keep individuals and teams from addressing the challenges they most need to confront.

Tiffany currently serves in municipal government as a Chief Relations Officer, focusing on elevating the employee experience inside the organization while strengthening community and stakeholder relationships outside of it. She continues to lead her own coaching and training practice, helping individuals and teams push past fear, own their strengths, and lead with purpose.

At her core, Tiffany believes leadership begins with truth—real conversations, fresh perspective, and a path forward. And sometimes, that truth shows up as “Truth Tacos with TT,” where honesty and humanity meet meaningful growth.

Abstract

Addiction doesn’t discriminate between ranks, titles, or professions—and leadership offers no immunity. In this powerful, unfiltered session, a Fire Chief and his wife—both executive-level leaders in municipal government—share their deeply personal journey through her hidden alcohol addiction and the immense emotional burden he carried trying to hold their life together while leading others.

This session goes beyond addiction in the fire service. It tackles the universal truth that leaders often preach wellness and resource utilization while silently struggling themselves. It exposes the quiet pressure to appear strong, capable, unshakable…and how that pressure traps people in shame, secrecy, and isolation.

Attendees will hear the raw reality of what happens when a leader suffers in silence, the unique strain placed on families in high-stakes public service roles, and the courage required to finally speak the truth. Through honest storytelling and practical insight, this husband-and-wife team will challenge the stigma that prevents executives, chiefs, directors, and managers from seeking help. Ultimately, this session invites leaders to break the silence, access the support they deserve, and create cultures where asking for help is not a liability—but a lifeline.

Because what we keep in the dark stays in the dark — and bringing it to light can save lives.

From Data to Dollars: Quantifying Resource Decisions for Budget Stakeholders

Paul Dow - Fire Chief, McKinney Fire Department

Chief Paul W. Dow leads the McKinney Fire Department with more than 30 years of fire service experience. Before coming to Texas, he served as Fire Chief of the Albuquerque Fire Department, where he advanced through every rank and championed operational excellence, firefighter safety, and community risk reduction.

Chief Dow is a published author in Fire Engineering, editor of Fire Service Pump Operator: Principles and Practices, and an instructor for Fire Science programs at Central New Mexico Community College and Collin College. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Fire Administration and is a designated Chief Fire Officer (CFO). His work has earned him three Firefighter of the Year awards.

He currently leads 269 personnel across ten stations, with specialized teams in technical rescue, wildland firefighting, and ARFF operations. Under his leadership, the McKinney Fire Department continues to grow as a high-performing, future-ready organization.

Jon Billiau, VP, Customer Success, Darkhorse Emergency

Jon leads customer success and consulting at Darkhorse Emergency, a deployment intelligence and analytics platform serving fire and EMS departments across North America. He works directly with fire chiefs and department leadership to translate complex response data into actionable strategic decisions, budget justifications, and operational improvements.

Abstract

How do you prove the value of adding a Med Unit before you deploy it? How do you decide where to place apparatus during a station rebuild, or where to build your next station? The McKinney Fire Department faced these questions during its FY25 budget cycle and answered them with data.

In this session, McKinney Fire Chief Paul Dow will share how his department partnered with Darkhorse Emergency and used predictive analytics to:

Quantify impacts before committing budget (e.g., impact of Med Unit additions to Stations 9 and 7)
Optimize apparatus placement during infrastructure changes and future station planning
Track response costs by call type and location for resource allocation decisions
Communicate with stakeholders using visualizations that translate response time data into real-world community impact

Attendees will see real examples from McKinney's deployment, including its cost analysis, incident-of-interest tracking for high-utilization locations, and predictive modeling for future resource needs. This is a practical approach for departments looking to move beyond gut feelings and demonstrate ROI to city councils, county commissioners, and community stakeholders.

Making the Jump from City to ESD: Different Patch, Different Challenges, Same Great Service

Tye Prange - Assistant Fire Chief, Pedernales Fire Department / Travis County ESD 8

Tye Prange serves as the Assistant Fire Chief for the Pedernales Fire Department (Travis County ESD 8) and has more than 31 years of fire service experience. He previously served with the Austin Fire Department, retiring as a Battalion Chief after a distinguished career marked by leadership, operational expertise, and commitment to professional growth.

Tye holds a Bachelor’s degree in Fire and Emergency Services Administration and considers himself a lifelong, curious learner. His leadership philosophy centers on the principles of followership, relationships, mentorship, scholarship, craftsmanship, and ownership—values he applies daily in developing people and strengthening organizational culture.

His work through committees and as a regional instructor has broadened his perspective across both large municipal departments and ESD’s, giving him a unique understanding of the operational, administrative, and cultural nuances of each.

Tony Haden - Fire Chief, Pedernales Fire Department / Travis County ESD 8

Chief Tony Haden is the Fire Chief for Travis County ESD 8, the Pedernales Fire Department, with more than 25 years of experience serving in the Texas fire service. A vision caster and culture warrior, he has led teams through periods of significant growth, operational modernization, and meaningful cultural transition.

Chief Haden is the creator of the Un/Re/New model, a practical framework that helps leaders (un)derstand their existing culture, (re)evaluate long-standing norms, and build something (new) that strengthens trust, performance, and connection at every level. His leadership approach is grounded in real-world experience—from frontline operations to executive decision-making—and he brings a clear, candid perspective on what today’s fire service needs to succeed.

He has presented across the country on leadership, cultural transformation, and lessons learned from his career. Chief Haden believes great organizations are built through healthy relationships, honest conversations, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Abstract

This presentation aims to provide fire service professionals with a practical, firsthand look at what it’s like to transition from a city fire department to an Emergency Services District (ESD) in Texas. By sharing real-world experiences from moving from the Austin Fire Department to the Assistant Fire Chief role at Pedernales Fire Department (TCESD8), the session highlights both the similarities and unique aspects of the ESD model. Attendees will learn about key distinctions such as tax rate setting, operating without traditional city support functions, and managing infrastructure in unincorporated areas, while also recognizing how leadership opportunities and challenges remain familiar. The presentation will also explore ESD-specific factors, such as board governance, budget autonomy, and a community-focused culture. Through examples, strategies, and a SWOT analysis, participants will gain insights to help them understand, evaluate, or prepare for the transition into an ESD leadership role.

Why Every Project Should Start with a Needs Assessment/Feasibility Study

Ray Holliday, AIA, ASLA, ASID - Principal and Civic Sector Leader, BRW Architects

Ray Holliday, AIA, ASLA, ASID, is a Principal and Civic Sector Leader at BRW Architects with more than 30 years of experience in the architecture industry. For the past 25 years, Ray has dedicated his career to designing firehouses, with a deep passion for research and education. As an architect committed to enhancing the lives of first responders, Ray continually pushes the boundaries of best practices in public safety facility design. Under his leadership, BRW Architects has completed over 380 firehouses, 48 police stations, and 24 training facility projects that have earned national recognition for their forward-thinking approach. With more than 100 design awards to their credit, Ray and BRW Architects are leaders in the field.

An educator at heart, Ray is dedicated to sharing his knowledge and expertise. He has been a featured presenter at the Firehouse Station Design Conference, the F.I.E.R.O. Station Design Symposium, and the Texas Fire Chief’s Academy. Ray also serves as a Professor of Practice in the College of Architecture at Texas A&M University, further solidifying his commitment to advancing public safety design through education and mentorship.

Ashton Holliday, AIA, RID - Senior Associate, BRW Architects

Ashton Holliday, AIA, RID, is a Project Architect at BRW Architects with more than ten years of experience specializing in the design of fire stations across the country. With a passion for curating innovative, high-performing facilities, she focuses on the details that make firehouses function seamlessly for the firefighters who depend on them. Her approach emphasizes collaboration, working closely with clients, design teams, and departments to create tailored solutions that meet each community’s unique operational and cultural needs.

Beyond her project work, Ashton serves as President of AIA Brazos and has taught for eight semesters at Texas A&M University’s College of Architecture. She brings that same passion for learning and mentorship into her work, guiding departments to consider the “million little things” that make a firehouse operate at its best.

Abstract

“How much will it cost?” That’s the first question every fire department asks when planning a new facility. But that question is like asking, “How much does a car cost?” Without first understanding your specific needs, it’s impossible to provide a meaningful answer.

Projects that start with a budget instead of a Needs Assessment or Feasibility Study are often set up for frustration, delays, and cost overruns. This session explores why starting with a comprehensive assessment is the single most important step toward a successful project.

Attendees will learn what’s included in a Needs Assessment/Feasibility Study, how it defines operational requirements and site constraints, and how it creates a realistic foundation for design and budgeting. The session will also cover how to communicate effectively with your design team during this process, what deliverables to expect, and how to use the study results to make confident design decisions.

Real-world fire station examples will demonstrate how a proper Feasibility Study sets projects up for long-term success, from initial planning through ribbon-cutting.

Un/Re/New Your Department Culture

Tony Haden - Fire Chief,, Pedernales Fire

Abstract

The culture of fire service is one of our greatest strengths—and at times, one of our greatest challenges. In this presentation, Chief Tony Haden shares a passionate and practical framework for organizational renewal rooted in 25+ years of fire service leadership. The Un/Re/New model helps leaders identify the cultural issues they need to (un)derstand, the norms they need to (re)evaluate, and the (new) ones they can add to the culture to strengthen trust, improve performance, and build healthier, more adaptive teams.

This session provides a roadmap for cultural change, grounded in real-world challenges facing today’s departments. Together, we will learn from real stories from the Texas Fire Service and from other industries where culture change has been handled well. This model works at the crew and department levels.

Whether your crew or department is navigating growth, modernizing practices, or simply seeking a reset, this presentation offers leaders a proven pathway to transform culture with intention—and create an environment where people want to serve, grow, and stay.