FIRE INDUSTRY EDUCATION RESOURCE ORGANIZATION 

CALL FOR PRESENTATIONS IS OPEN!! - Submit your sessions by selecting the Speaker Application tab to the left.

PPE keeps us alive and protected - but only if we know how to use it, maintain it, and stay current with evolving technology and standards. From the selection process, to proper care and storage, to new materials, protection research, and EV fire response, this symposium delivers the essential knowledge every firefighter needs.

When it comes to safety, knowledge is your best defense.

Pre-Conference: Monday (full day) $250

Main Conference: Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday (half day)

Registration - Early Bird Pricing - Fire and Gov't Service $595 - Non Fire Service $795

Registration Includes: the Exhibit Hall Grand Opening Reception Tuesday night, Breakfasts, Lunches and Snacks each day, Professionally bound Resource Manual, and electronic copies of all presentations.

IFE (Institution of Fire Engineers) continuing education attendance certificates will be available at the conclusion of the conference.

PRE SYMPOSIUM SEMINARS - MONDAY - this has separate fee and is not included in Main Conference

PPE Fundamentals & Program Management ($250) -  This full day, multi session, seminar is perfect for both new PPE program managers and experienced PPE specialists. Topics will include a comprehensive overview of the NFPA process, current (and possible future) NFPA 1851 requirements, how/why to conduct risk assessments and wear trials, how to develop gear specs that meet your departments needs, explanation of third-party verification and testing processes, and more! The seminar will conclude with a Q&A with the subject matter experts.

OR

Advanced Gear Inspection Hands-on-Training Session ($250) - (Space is limited to 30 participants) This full day seminar, lead by Chief Bruce Varner and Engineer/Paramedic Tim Tomlinson, will be a hands-on seminar on how to thoroughly and properly conduct an inspection of your PPE. Very few firefighters know how to conduct an inspection that is compliant with NFPA 1851 to provide the level of protection their members deserve. Participants will have clean gear available to conduct an inspection under the guidance of Bruce and Tim. Every fire department should have a few members that are properly trained to conduct an inspection. They will also cover other pertinent parts of caring for your PPE. This is a tremendous opportunity and it sells out quickly.

The fees include: Breakfast, lunch, each day, a welcome reception on Monday evening, an exhibit reception on Tuesday evening, and a hard-copy of our Resource Manual..

HOTEL - Hyatt Regency Downtown Greenville, SC

HOTEL LINK COMING SOON

SPONSORS/EXHIBITORS

Click on the Sponsor/Exhibit Info tab on the left to learn about sponsorship opportunities. Then you can click and view the 2027 Prospectus to see all the awesome details! Click on the Sponsor/Exhibitor Registration tab to register!!

• Set up Tuesday between 10am and 4:30pm. Exhibit Tuesday evening for the Grand Opening Reception, and Wednesday. Tear down Wednesday late afternoon.
• NEW to 2026 - Add on Monday exhibit during the Pre-Conference