This August, FRI Brought the Fire Service Together in Orlando, Florida where more than 5,000 fire and EMS professionals from across the globe gathered in Orlando, Florida, for the 152nd International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) Fire-Rescue International (FRI) conference. FRI once again proved to be the premier event for fire service leadership, education, and networking, offering attendees the opportunity to learn, connect, and shape the future of our profession.
From the very start, FRI buzzed with energy. The Leadership Symposium Series provided forward-looking conversations and practical strategies for leading through today’s challenges while preparing for tomorrow’s opportunities.
Attendees also benefited from the IAFC and Columbia Southern University's Officer Development Program (ODP) courses, which continue to provide impactful training tailored to every stage of a fire officer’s career.
The dynamic general sessions inspired attendees with messages of leadership, service, and resilience. Along with some of today's hottest topics including AI and mental health awareness.
These moments also provided opportunities to celebrate the profession’s highest honors. The prestigious Fire Chief of the Year Award, sponsored by Pierce Manufacturing and presented by Pierce CEO, Bob Schulz, recognized the outstanding contributions of Chief Jeremy Craft of the Lehi Fire Department, Lehi UT (career) and Chief Daniel Krushinski of the East Franklin Fire Department, Somerset, New Jersey (volunteer) for making a lasting difference in their communities.
The Ben Franklin Valor Award, sponsored by Motorola Solutions, honored the extraordinary heroism of the Rapid City Fire Department’s M1 Team, reminding us all of the courage and dedication at the heart of the fire service.
Celebrating Excellence at FRI 2025 -- This year’s FRI was filled with recognition and gratitude. We congratulate all of the award recipients whose service and leadership continue to inspire the fire and EMS community. We also extend our sincere thanks to the dedicated committee chairs and members completing their terms—your contributions have made a lasting impact.
A heartfelt thank you was extended to outgoing IAFC President and now Immediate Past President, Chief Josh Waldo (Bozeman, MT), for his dedicated leadership and service over the past year. The conference also marked the swearing-in of our new slate of officers: Chief Steven Locke (South Burlington, VT) as 1st Vice President, Chief Ernest Malone (Indianapolis, IN) as 2nd Vice President, and Chief James Silvernail (St. Louis County, MO) as Treasurer.
The highlight of the week was the installation of Chief Trisha Wolford (Anne Arundel County, MD) as the 149th President and Board Chair of the IAFC. Chief Wolford, only the third female president in the association’s 152-year history, emphasized the importance of partnerships, advocacy, and advancing the fire and EMS profession.
FRI 2025 would not have been possible without the support of our host city, Orange County Fire & Rescue, all of our sponsors and exhibitors, the leadership of our Board of Directors, the tireless work of IAFC staff, and, of course, the energy and engagement of our attendees.
Keep an eye out for links to the general session recordings, photos and more!
As we look ahead, we’re excited for a big year of opportunities, connections, and growth. Stay with us on the road to FRI 2026 in Kansas City, Missouri!