FAIRFAX, VA. —
Embry-Riddle Worldwide’s College of Aeronautics (Embry-Riddle) and the
International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) are partnering to offer the fire service education, training and certification opportunities to assist fire departments in effectively implementing unmanned aerial systems (UAS).
UAS technologies offer a tremendous leap forward in capabilities for the fire service and emergency service, including structural firefighting, wildland firefighting, rescue operations, hazardous materials response, emergency medical services and more.
“Not only do they give smaller departments the ability to have an aerial program without expensive aircraft, pilots and the maintenance associated with those assets, but the potential for entirely new strategies and tactics could change operations drastically,” said Chief Thomas Jenkins, IAFC president and chairman of the Board. “We are excited to partner with Embry-Riddle to provide critical education and training for fire departments everywhere.”
“As an academic curriculum collaborator with the IAFC, Embry-Riddle has the opportunity to provide UAS-related education, training and certification to enhance the culture of aviation safety for its members,” said Assistant Professor at Embry-Riddle Worldwide’s College of Aeronautics Dr. Joe Cerreta. “We are excited to support the IAFC’s commitment and need for the safe integration of UAS technology into its member organizations.”
Embry-Riddle will provide UAS-related education, training and certification activities such as information sessions, online courses, in-person courses, workshops, seminars/speakers, webinars and/or lunch and learn sessions.
For more information, visit https://worldwide.erau.edu/.
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CONTACTS:
Jim Philipps, 703-537-4829, jphilipps@iafc.org
Melanie Hanns, 386-226-7538, hannsm@erau.edu
About the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC)
The IAFC represents the leadership of firefighters and emergency responders worldwide. IAFC members are the world's leading experts in firefighting, emergency medical services, terrorism response, hazardous response, natural disasters, search and rescue, and public safety legislation. Since 1873, the IAFC has provided a forum for its members to exchange ideas, develop professionally and uncover the latest products and services available to first responders. Learn more
About Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is the world’s largest, fully accredited university specializing in aviation, aerospace, engineering and related degree programs. The university is also a major research center, seeking solutions to real-world problems in partnership with the aerospace industry, other universities and government agencies. A nonprofit, independent institution, Embry-Riddle offers more than 80 baccalaureate, master’s and Ph.D. degree programs in its colleges of Arts & Sciences, Aviation, Business, Engineering and Security & Intelligence. The university educates students at residential campuses in Daytona Beach, Fla., and Prescott, Ariz., through the Worldwide Campus with more than 125 locations in the United States, Europe, Asia and the Middle East, and through online programs. For more information, visit www.embryriddle.edu, follow us on Twitter (@EmbryRiddle) and facebook.com/EmbryRiddleUniversity, and find expert videos at YouTube.com/EmbryRiddleUniv.