Discover how the IAFC’s new GIS toolkits, developed with the North Carolina Association of Fire Chiefs and Indiana Fire Chiefs Association through FEMA SAFER grants, empower departments to map recruitment strategies, attract talent and retain firefighters. Join our Fire-Rescue International (FRI) session for an exclusive demo.
Fire departments across the nation are confronting a pressing challenge: How can we increase the number of boots on the ground?
To address this, the International Association of Fire Chiefs, North Carolina Association of Fire Chiefs, and Indiana Fire Chiefs Association are teaming up to present innovative solutions at Fire-Rescue International (FRI) 2025. Supported by FEMA SAFER grants, we’ve created free GIS toolkits designed to streamline recruitment and retention efforts, helping departments more effectively attract and retain firefighters.
Session Information
Mastering Recruitment & Retention with Technology
Thursday, August 14, 2025
1:30 PM - 2:30 PM EST
Location: W303A
Learn Why
- Recruitment shortages threaten community safety
- Traditional methods miss key demographic opportunities
- Data gaps hinder strategic resource allocation
Discover & Learn
- Live demo: See how the toolkit maps local talent pools, infrastructure gaps and competitor agencies
- Data-driven strategy: Transform geographic data into actionable recruitment plans
- Free access: Deploy these tools at zero cost
- Toolkit Support: Demo of the new National Recruitment and Retention Toolkit developed with real-world tips for fire departments across the country to see where they rank in Recruitment and Retention with customizable templates and communication strategies to assist in implementation
- Real results: Pilot states show measurable improvements in applicant volume
- How SAFER grants can fund tailored strategies for your department
After the session if you're still looking to discuss recruiting, we encourage you to stop by our kiosk in the IAFC Pavillion.
The SAFER 7-funded Recruitment and Retention Toolkit is one example of how FEMA support can directly empower departments to create sustainable staffing solutions. The toolkit was shaped by focus groups and insights from across the fire service, ensuring it meets the practical needs of departments large and small.