IAFF Holds Successful Political Training Academy

March 10, 2010 – IAFF members from 31 states and three Canadian provinces attended the IAFF 14th annual Political Training Academy (PTA) in Baltimore, Maryland, February 28-March 5. In addition, the 2010 class included five female IAFF members – the most ever – two of whom currently serve as presidents of their locals.

Participants spent the week learning to enhance their political knowledge and, in several cases, help IAFF members who are running for public office to structure and run more effective, winning campaigns. Eight of this year’s participants are candidates for office, while one was recently elected. Throughout the week, participants heard from a variety of presenters – each specializing in a specific area of campaigns – to help them improve their political skills and programs.

As part of the program - in addition to the classroom presentations - participants also took part in two mock campaign exercises: a mock press conference exercise where members practiced their public speaking skills in front of a camera and a campaign plan and budget for a mock congressional race.

IAFF General President Harold Schaitberger also addressed attendees and stressed the importance of political action at all levels of government and in both countries, and commended the attendees for their efforts in participating in the week-long program.

Over its 14-year history, the Political Training Academy has trained nearly 650 IAFF members or family members representing 49 of the 50 states, five of 10 Canadian provinces, and nearly 400 IAFF locals across the continent.

The Political Training Academy is an annual program that accepts up to 50 participants per year. More than 290 IAFF members or family members in the United States and Canada currently hold elected office.

The online application process is open from Labor Day through early November each year. For more information, visit the IAFF web site or contact the IAFF Political Action Department at (202) 824-1582.