WORKSHOPS & HANDS-ON TRAINING

Enhances internal and external communication skills for union leaders, offering proven strategies, best practices, and feedback to strengthen member engagement and public outreach.

The Communications workshops can be taken individually or as part of a 10-course track (Sessions 1–10). Completing the full Track is a prerequisite for applying to the advanced Communications Training Academy (CTA 2.0) in May 2026. Past CTA participants are not required to take the Communications Track to be eligible for CTA 2.0.

Provides strategies to boost member engagement and participation, emphasizing how active involvement strengthens union effectiveness in organizing, political, and public relations efforts.

Prepares affiliate leaders for success in any union officer role by outlining duties, executive board responsibilities, and IAFF resources that support effective Local leadership and governance.

Examines generational differences in today’s fire service, using a lighthearted approach to explore workplace values, communication styles, and strategies for reducing conflict across four generations.

A 4-Hour Course, Part 1 of 2. Federal grant opportunities can make or break department readiness – this course breaks down the SAFER and AFG programs, covering funding priorities, application strategies, and proven tips for writing successful grant proposals.

An inside look at how Locals can build lasting political influence through grassroots advocacy, real-world campaigns, and engagement at every level of government.

This course introduces the core responsibilities of managing union finances, protecting fiscal health, and maintaining transparency – ideal for both new treasurers and those refining their best practices.

Focuses on the root causes behind lapses in command and control on the fire ground, offering practical guidance from a 30-year veteran chief on leadership, stress management, and the core principles that define effective, consistent incident command.

Centers on the IAFF’s ongoing efforts to improve member safety by influencing how fire fighters’ work environments are designed, built, and maintained, highlighting key building code and standards issues and how members can get involved to drive meaningful change.

A practical overview of how to read and interpret municipal financial reports, showing union leaders where to find key data, how to assess economic indicators, and how Municipal Financial Analysis (MFA) can reveal a community’s true financial health.

A workshop on transforming GIS StoryMaps, standards of cover, and workload analyses into compelling narratives that use data and persuasion to influence decision makers and strengthen departmental staffing and resources.     

Provides new union leaders with the foundational skills, ethical principles, and practical tools needed to organize, manage daily operations, and conduct effective union meetings.

This session expands on the “Building Your Peer Support Program” workshop, offering a comprehensive guide for creating sustainable peer support teams, covering policies, recruitment, training, and cultural change in behavioral health.

This session introduces the evidence-based motivational interviewing (MI) approach, showing how trained IAFF Peer Support members can use these techniques to support fellow fire fighters facing personal or behavioral challenges.

This session explores the science of sleep, circadian rhythm, and cancer risk in the fire service, with experts covering CBT-I techniques, nutrition’s impact on sleep health, and evidence-based strategies to improve recovery and resilience.

Centers on postvention strategies for fire service leaders and peers, outlining notification procedures, family and department response, and clinical considerations after a suicide, while addressing contagion prevention, communication, and long-term support planning.

This session addresses the physical, mental, and financial dimensions of retirement, combining behavioral health strategies, movement, mindfulness, and financial planning insights from IAFF-FC and Local 42’s retirement program.

Part 1 of 5. A five-day, hands-on training that prepares fire fighters for confined space rescues through instruction on regulations, PPE, monitoring devices, ventilation, retrieval systems, and practical rescue techniques leading to certification.

Participants must have current Rope Rescue Operations–level qualifications. Additionally, students are required to bring their own full-body rescue harness, rescue helmet, rescue gloves, and hard-toe boots to participate in hands-on training evolutions.

A 3-Day Course, Part 1 of 3. Based on NFPA 1041 standards, this three-day certification course teaches fire fighters to deliver and adapt lesson plans, use instructional aids effectively, and create engaging, results-driven learning environments.

This workshop explores the integration of mental skills and stress inoculation into fire service training, emphasizing performance coaching techniques that enhance focus, resilience, and effectiveness under pressure.

This course equips fire fighters to safely handle photovoltaic and battery energy storage systems through updated codes, practical training, and use of the IAFF Energy Hazard Guide.

This 8-hour course provides IAFF members with hands-on and classroom training on managing multi-casualty incidents, emphasizing triage, medical intervention, interoperability, and alignment with NIMS, ICS Canada, and START Triage standards.

This practical course integrates IAFF Fire Ground Survival principles with proven rescue tactics to help fire fighters recognize danger early and execute effective, life-saving actions under pressure.

This hands-on course applies modern fire science and IAFF-tested tactics to improve strategy, coordination, and decision-making in today’s complex fire environments.

An 8-hour hands-on operations course that prepares fire fighters and company officers to assess risk, develop strategies, and safely operate in the expanding wildland–urban interface to protect lives and property.

Equips union leaders with the knowledge to navigate the disciplinary process, represent members effectively, and apply key legal protections under Weingarten, Loudermill, and Garrity across bargaining environments.

Explains how a Local’s constitution and by-laws define officer duties, governance, and meeting procedures, providing leaders with tools to interpret and apply these guiding documents effectively.

Provides affiliate leaders with the knowledge and strategies to develop an effective long-term recruitment and retention program.

From digital ads to geo-targeting, this introductory class demystifies media terminology and teaches unions how to use modern communication tools effectively and responsibly.

The Communications workshops can be taken individually or as part of a 10-course track (Sessions 1–10). Completing the full Track is a prerequisite for applying to the advanced Communications Training Academy (CTA 2.0) in May 2026. Past CTA participants are not required to take the Communications Track to be eligible for CTA 2.0.

A 4-Hour Course, Part 2 of 2. Federal grant opportunities can make or break department readiness – this course breaks down the SAFER and AFG programs, covering funding priorities, application strategies, and proven tips for writing successful grant proposals.

Explores how the IAFF’s distributed organizing model has fueled historic growth, featuring Southern Local leaders sharing strategies, membership trends, and collective bargaining successes.

Provides practical guidance for new and experienced treasurers on advanced financial management, including taxes, audits, budgeting, fraud prevention, and investments, while emphasizing collaboration and accountability.

This session uses a real-world near miss to explore survival tactics, recovery challenges, and lessons for departments facing traumatic incidents.

Highlights the major updates to NFPA 1580, outlining how the new standard strengthens occupational safety, health, and wellness through improved fitness benchmarks, medical evaluation guidance, and evidence-based strategies to keep fire fighters healthy and mission ready.

A look at the latest research connecting ALS, Parkinson’s, and other neurodegenerative diseases to fire service exposures, with updates on new studies, advocacy initiatives, and efforts to better understand and prevent these conditions.

A session designed to help affiliate leaders assess the true value of healthcare and prescription drug plans, compare employer proposals, and strengthen CBAs and MOUs with clear, protective benefits language.

A workshop on using standards of cover analyses, risk assessments, and strategic plans to evaluate staffing and response capabilities, helping departments of any size identify gaps, justify resources, and strengthen fire fighter and community safety.

Explores the ethical responsibilities of IAFF leaders as public employees, offering strategies for sound decision-making and case study analysis to uphold integrity, maintain member trust, and ensure effective Local leadership.

Covers best practices for enforcing contract provisions, handling grievances and discipline issues, and strengthening member engagement through effective representation and communication with fire service management.

Teaches affiliate leaders how to establish and sustain a Local human relations committee, assess member needs, plan strategically, and resolve conflict within their Local.

Equips union leaders with crisis communication strategies to manage high-pressure situations, protect member trust, and safeguard the union’s reputation during challenging events.

The Communications workshops can be taken individually or as part of a 10-course track (Sessions 1–10). Completing the full Track is a prerequisite for applying to the advanced Communications Training Academy (CTA 2.0) in May 2026. Past CTA participants are not required to take the Communications Track to be eligible for CTA 2.0.

Provides fire fighters with insight into national politics and legislative processes, teaching how to interpret policy developments, engage with Congress, and build relationships that elevate fire service priorities in Washington, D.C.

Outlines the essential duties of Local secretaries – from recording minutes and managing records to filing reports and maintaining rosters – while reinforcing best practices, parliamentary procedure, and compliance with government requirements.

Explores the complex interactions that shape every fire ground – from fire dynamics and building construction to staffing, PPE, and tactics – using FSRI research and case studies to highlight how decisions, conditions, and post-fire exposures impact safety and outcomes.

Focuses on the role of cardiorespiratory fitness as both a clinical health measure and a key factor in job performance, outlining recent NFPA standard updates, assessment methods, and practical ways to implement and communicate these changes within departments.

Examines fire fighter exposure to carcinogens during wildland and urban interface fires and highlights current research and development efforts aimed at creating certified, practical respiratory protection for these high-risk environments.

An informative look at retirement readiness, offering guidance on planning for the future, understanding how Social Security benefits are calculated, and clarifying key provisions like the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO).

Explores how data is gathered, interpreted, and applied in the fire service, offering insight into workload studies, common data pitfalls, and how the IAFF can help Locals use data more effectively to advocate for members and improve operations.

Guides IAFF affiliate leaders in identifying their leadership style, understanding its impact on members, and developing strategies to strengthen effectiveness and organizational leadership within their Local.

Explores how to build a respectful, inclusive, and ethical firehouse culture by strengthening teamwork and aligning workplace conduct with the fire service’s highest community values.

Focuses on crafting persuasive messages that influence policy, shape public opinion, and empower union leaders to drive meaningful change for their members and communities.

The Communications workshops can be taken individually or as part of a 10-course track (Sessions 1–10). Completing the full Track is a prerequisite for applying to the advanced Communications Training Academy (CTA 2.0) in May 2026. Past CTA participants are not required to take the Communications Track to be eligible for CTA 2.0.

100% Union Firehouse. Organizing beyond Chartering a new Local. Internal Organizing Tools and Active-Retired Members. Internal organizing remains essential for every Local – large or small. This session highlights effective organizing tools, membership-building strategies, and the value of engaging both active and retired members to sustain strong union participation.

For Locals managing their books, QuickBooks can feel overwhelming at first – this beginner-friendly session breaks it down step by step, helping treasurers gain confidence and control over their financial tracking and reporting.

Focuses on how fire service leaders can foster resilience and psychological safety, using practical tools to support crew wellbeing, reduce stigma, and model healthy leadership behaviors.

Gain insight from treating more than 4,000 members at the IAFF Center of Excellence, exploring tailored clinical programming and lessons learned in fire service behavioral healthcare.

This session explores how disrupted circadian rhythms, insomnia, and “night owl” patterns increase vulnerability to suicidality and impact emotional regulation.

An interactive program translating more than a decade of UL-FSRI fire dynamics research into practical, street-level tactics that strengthen safety, efficiency, and survivability through evidence-based suppression, search, and extinguishment strategies.

Introduces the IAFF Energy Hazard Guide – the first energy hazard training resource built by and for fire fighters – emphasizing the importance of recognizing invisible, lethal energy threats and adapting to the evolving national energy grid.

Addresses how affiliate leaders can prepare for and respond to a line-of-duty death, offering practical guidance from IAFF leaders on building support networks, assisting families, managing ceremonies and reviews, and leading with compassion through recovery and change.

This workshop will highlight how resources such as the WFI Igniting Change can help any department with the adoption of recommendations and best practices to implement a holistic wellness-fitness program within their department.

Focuses on the critical role of the first-due engine in setting the pace for operations, offering practical tactics for positioning, stretching, and interior attack that enhance readiness for both urban and rural responses, from rookie fire fighters to new company officers.

Covers the fundamentals of collective bargaining – from understanding Zipper, Evergreen, and Management Rights Clauses to drafting strong grievance procedures and navigating mandatory versus permissive subjects – with practical guidance for every stage of contract negotiation and enforcement.

A practical guide to navigating the collective bargaining process, outlining key steps before, during, and after negotiations, and demonstrating how to use IAFF resources, financial data, and coalition-building to push back against unfair budget claims and win stronger agreements.

Introduces the IAFF’s vertical ascent response model, a new tool for analyzing how long it takes fire fighters to reach upper floors in high-rise incidents, highlighting how travel time, crew size, and ascent speed impact fireground performance and staffing needs.

A session on making informed Social Security decisions for retirement, explaining how timing impacts lifetime benefits and outlining recent updates to the Windfall Elimination Provision and Government Pension Offset.

Helps IAFF affiliate leaders assess their leadership style, understand its impact on members, and develop tools to strengthen their effectiveness and influence within the union.

Provides new union leaders with the foundational skills, ethical principles, and practical tools needed to organize, manage daily operations, and conduct effective union meetings.

Part 2 of 5. A five-day, hands-on training that prepares fire fighters for confined space rescues through instruction on regulations, PPE, monitoring devices, ventilation, retrieval systems, and practical rescue techniques leading to certification.

Participants must have current Rope Rescue Operations–level qualifications. Additionally, students are required to bring their own full-body rescue harness, rescue helmet, rescue gloves, and hard-toe boots to parti

A 3-Day Course, Part 2 of 3. Based on NFPA 1041 standards, this three-day certification course teaches fire fighters to deliver and adapt lesson plans, use instructional aids effectively, and create engaging, results-driven learning environments.

An intensive, hands-on 8-hour class that trains fire fighters to manage elevator emergencies safely and effectively through practical rescue scenarios, technical instruction, and teamwork-based strategies for complex urban incidents.

Provides affiliate leaders with tools to assess union resources, engage in strategic planning, and strengthen organizational effectiveness to meet the evolving challenges facing IAFF members in the 21st century.

Examines modern fire station design principles that balance tradition with advancements in health, safety, and functionality to create resilient, supportive, and efficient work environments.

Explore how IAFF experts are evaluating and integrating new technologies to improve member safety and operational readiness.

Through real-world examples and best practices, this session shows how to build strong relationships with the media, manage interviews confidently, and promote your Local’s message effectively.

The Communications workshops can be taken individually or as part of a 10-course track (Sessions 1–10). Completing the full Track is a prerequisite for applying to the advanced Communications Training Academy (CTA 2.0) in May 2026. Past CTA participants are not required to take the Communications Track to be eligible for CTA 2.0.

Demonstrates how the IAFF’s grassroots structure connects local advocacy to national influence, showing how affiliates engage communities, policymakers, and elected officials to advance fire fighter safety, collective bargaining, and public safety priorities.

This intermediate session guides users through a full monthly QuickBooks workflow, from data entry to reporting, with hands-on instruction and expert tips from a certified trainer.

Examines how today’s multigenerational fire service can strengthen teamwork and communication by recognizing differences, leveraging shared strengths, and fostering respect across all age groups.

This session unpacks how repeated exposure to trauma and grief affects first responders, using the “bucket analogy” to explore coping, compartmentalization, and the long-term impact on wellbeing, relationships, and job performance.

An exploration of trauma therapies that go beyond talk – this session introduces evidence-informed approaches like EMDR, brain spotting, ART, and somatic modalities that help fire service members reprocess trauma and restore balance to the body and mind.

Explore how shifts in fire behavior, building materials, and operational demands are redefining risk in a world where fires are down, but hazards are rising.

A look at the often-overlooked electrical hazards in residential fires, revealing how modern home energy systems create deadly risks and how fire fighter–specific training can prevent tragedies like the 2012 electrocution of Lewisville, Texas, Fire Fighter Andy Allison.

Examines the growing trend of mid-rise residential construction – from podium and groundscraper designs to their combustible materials and complex layouts – outlining the unique risks, fire behavior, and tactical challenges these buildings pose for today’s fire service.

Features insights from Gavin Horn and Dr. Kenny Fent on more than a decade of research into fire fighter chemical exposures, outlining where and how exposures occur, which control measures work best, and how initiatives like the National Firefighter Registry for Cancer are helping close critical knowledge gaps.

Explores the legal limits of collective actions in the fire service – including strikes, sick-outs, and picketing – while outlining lawful alternatives such as rallies, handbilling, and social media advocacy, and the First Amendment protections that apply.

An update on evolving pension laws and regulations affecting fire fighters, covering recent state and federal developments, ongoing efforts to shift from defined benefit to defined contribution plans, and what these changes mean for retirement security.

An overview of the newest EMS updates, including the NFPA 455 standard, workload metrics, and mobile integrated health programs, with practical insight on how departments can strengthen or integrate their EMS operations.

Introduces the Gracie Medical Defense course, teaching fire and EMS personnel practical, non-aggressive self-defense and restraint techniques using the SafeWrap system to manage combative patients safely and prevent responder injuries.

EMTs/Paramedics: To receive EMS continuing education credits, you must enter your EMS license/certification or NREMT registry number in your profile and attend the entire workshop.

Teaches leaders how to model union values, strengthen solidarity, and build coalitions that advance local IAFF political and legislative priorities.

Shares lessons from the first openly gay professional fire fighter’s experience, offering practical strategies and real-world examples for creating safer, inclusive, and supportive workplaces for LGBTQ+ fire service personnel.

Explores the transformational impact of NERIS on the fire service, offering insights into how this system enhances understanding of risk, deployment, and performance across the industry.

Examines current social media trends and tools, helping IAFF leaders strengthen engagement, adapt to platform changes, and communicate effectively with members, policymakers, and the public.

The Communications workshops can be taken individually or as part of a 10-course track (Sessions 1–10). Completing the full Track is a prerequisite for applying to the advanced Communications Training Academy (CTA 2.0) in May 2026. Past CTA participants are not required to take the Communications Track to be eligible for CTA 2.0.

Explores how IAFF Locals can build political influence by turning member engagement, community outreach, and strategic lobbying into effective advocacy that advances fire fighter and public safety priorities.

Learn how the February 2025 DCA aircraft crash response reshaped resource delivery – with leaders detailing the centralized deployment model, its rationale, implementation challenges, and key takeaways for future operations.

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This session connects the dots between stress, sleep disruption, and nutrition, offering evidence-based strategies to restore gut health, balance brain chemistry, and build resilience from the inside out.

Addresses the unique challenges of high-rise fires, outlining strategies for command, control, and sectoring, along with approaches for wind-impacted incidents, smoke management, and ventilation tailored to a department’s available resources.

Explores the growing impact of lithium-ion battery technology on fire service response – from EVs and micromobility devices to large-scale energy storage systems – breaking down why these batteries fail, how they change fire dynamics, and what today’s best practices say about safe suppression, response, and prevention.

Provides an overview of the Public Safety Officers’ Benefits (PSOB) program, explaining eligibility, available death and disability benefits, and the steps needed to ensure fallen or injured fire fighters and their families receive the support they deserve.

Breaks down the science and strategy of effective ventilation, connecting fire dynamics, operations, and victim survivability, and offering a universal framework that helps fire fighters of any department size make faster, smarter tactical decisions on the fire ground.

A session on how the Americans with Disabilities Act applies to fire fighters experiencing mental health conditions, outlining key topics such as reasonable accommodations, FMLA rights, privacy protections, and fitness-for-duty requirements.

A deep dive into pension plan funding strategies, featuring expert discussion on tools like pension obligation and revenue bonds, and an examination of Deferred Retirement Option Plans (D.R.O.P.), their benefits, controversies, and impact on members’ retirement security.

Introduces the Gracie Medical Defense course, teaching fire and EMS personnel practical, non-aggressive self-defense and restraint techniques using the SafeWrap system to manage combative patients safely and prevent responder injuries.

EMTs/Paramedics: To receive EMS continuing education credits, you must enter your EMS license/certification or NREMT registry number in your profile and attend the entire workshop.

Provides Canadian IAFF members with an overview of key financial planning principles and information on member benefits that support financial security through retirement.

Part 3 of 5. A five-day, hands-on training that prepares fire fighters for confined space rescues through instruction on regulations, PPE, monitoring devices, ventilation, retrieval systems, and practical rescue techniques leading to certification.

Participants must have current Rope Rescue Operations–level qualifications. Additionally, students are required to bring their own full-body rescue harness, rescue helmet, rescue gloves, and hard-toe boots to participate in hands-on training evolutions.

Examines the duty of fair representation standard, guiding affiliate leaders through case law, legal requirements, consequences of violations, and best practices to ensure fair and lawful member representation.

Teaches union officers how to plan and conduct efficient, productive meetings using IAFF protocol, fostering member engagement, professionalism, and effective conflict management.

Covers the fundamentals of grievance handling, teaching union officers how to evaluate, file, and resolve grievances efficiently while reducing DFR risk and avoiding costly arbitration.

Explores how fiscal crises affect collective bargaining, equipping union leaders to address wages, benefits, staffing, and working conditions while maintaining the IAFF mission during tough economic times.

An interactive session that helps identify recruitment and retention challenges, guiding participants in developing actionable plans to secure administrative and community support, address funding, and implement proven practices.

Provides a hands-on guide to developing and sustaining public safety drone programs, covering aviation standards, program design, mission planning, and safe UAS integration into fire and emergency operations.

Examines the legal and privacy implications of emerging technologies – body-worn cameras, GPS, biometrics, AI, and social media – and offers guidance on negotiating policies and protecting members’ rights.

Examines the grievance process from start to finish, including what constitutes a grievance, how it’s handled, and common situations union leaders may encounter.

This workshop dives into practical branding and engagement techniques that strengthen both internal unity and public trust in the fire fighter brand.

The Communications workshops can be taken individually or as part of a 10-course track (Sessions 1–10). Completing the full Track is a prerequisite for applying to the advanced Communications Training Academy (CTA 2.0) in May 2026. Past CTA participants are not required to take the Communications Track to be eligible for CTA 2.0.

This session with General Secretary-Treasurer Frank Líma and Team GST breaks down how IAFF dues are allocated, how the union’s budget is structured, and how Locals can strengthen accountability, prevent mismanagement, and protect their financial integrity.

Explore the evolving role of peer support after potentially traumatic events (PTEs) – clarifying how it differs from CISM, what follow-up should look like, and the best practices shaping today’s fire service approach.

This session introduces the IAFF’s curriculum designed by the Science and Research and Behavioral Health teams to guide members through diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.

Explores how simple practices like meditation and gratitude can help fire fighters manage stress, improve focus, and build resilience through practical, science-based techniques that fit into demanding schedules.

A deep dive into the dangers of large commercial structure fires – this class examines modern building construction, fire protection systems, and tactical decision-making – drawing lessons from major incidents to help departments avoid the deadly pitfalls of applying residential tactics to big-box fires.

Covers the unique risks and recovery needs of burn injuries in the fire service – from causes and treatment options to rehabilitation, return-to-duty decisions, and the IAFF’s support systems that help members and leaders navigate recovery with care and confidence.

A practical session on recognizing and managing aggression in the field, introducing the six-phase Aggression Continuum and offering de-escalation strategies, communication techniques, and peer discussion to help reduce risk and maintain safety on scene.

An introduction to the reimagined IAFF/IAFC Wellness-Fitness Initiative – WFI: Igniting Change – highlighting its expanded evidence base, best practice guidelines, and practical tools designed to help every department strengthen member health, fitness, and readiness.

An introductory workshop on wildfire and urban-interface operations, offering the latest strategies for assessing risk, making tactical decisions, and operating safely in the growing Wildland/Urban Interface – where more departments than ever are now called to respond.

Highlights current and emerging research shaping fire fighter health and safety – from cancer and PFAS to sleep, cardiovascular health, and behavioral wellness – with practical takeaways for applying these findings to improve wellbeing throughout a fire fighter’s career and into retirement.

A Q&A session with GIS and data experts who will demystify fire data analysis, response modeling, and geographic factors, while sharing tips on how to use data effectively to build stronger arguments and improve decision-making.

Introduces the Gracie Medical Defense course, teaching fire and EMS personnel practical, non-aggressive self-defense and restraint techniques using the SafeWrap system to manage combative patients safely and prevent responder injuries.

EMTs/Paramedics: To receive EMS continuing education credits, you must enter your EMS license/certification or NREMT registry number in your profile and attend the entire workshop.

Teaches union leaders how to advance members’ goals and secure wage and benefit gains in non-collective bargaining environments by leveraging membership strength and strategic advocacy.

Reviews how the IAFF Human Relations Committee addressed a service request from the Fort Worth Fire Department, highlighting the process, challenges, and solutions implemented to meet departmental needs.

Covers parliamentary procedures for Local meetings, including order of business, motion processing, recordkeeping, and best practices to ensure organized, efficient, and transparent union operations.

Examines how chronic sleep loss and fatigue affect fire fighter health and performance, sharing new research that uses wearable technology to track sleep, strain, and recovery, and offering data-driven strategies to improve scheduling, wellness, and alertness.

Provides an overview of Canada’s federal government structure, including the House of Commons, the Senate, and the process for legislative and regulatory change.

Demonstrates how AI tools such as Perplexity, Originality AI, and NotebookLM can enhance union leadership by improving research, policy development, and decision-making while ensuring accuracy, integrity, and privacy.

The Communications workshops can be taken individually or as part of a 10-course track (Sessions 1–10). Completing the full Track is a prerequisite for applying to the advanced Communications Training Academy (CTA 2.0) in May 2026. Past CTA participants are not required to take the Communications Track to be eligible for CTA 2.0.

A 4-Hour Course, Part 1 of 2. An overview of how the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) intersect, clarifying key requirements, responsibilities, and the complex relationship between these two workplace protection laws.

Draws on UL Fire Safety Research Institute’s analysis of the 2023 Lahaina and 2025 Los Angeles fires to show how departments can better prepare for wildland fire–initiated urban conflagrations and protect communities in extreme, wind-driven conditions.

Presents findings from the joint NIOSH and IAFF investigation into a 2024 Oregon structure fire where two fire fighters were injured during rapid-fire progression, highlighting key factors, lessons learned, and recommendations for preventing similar incidents.

An overview of male reproductive health in the fire service, examining how fireground exposures can affect fertility, cancer risk, and offspring, while outlining protective practices, current research, and resources to support long-term health.

A workshop breaking down OSHA’s 2025 proposed rule expanding the Fire Brigade standard to public response agencies, clarifying what’s actually included, addressing common misconceptions, and outlining its potential impact on the fire service.

A practical session giving fire fighters and company officers a working understanding of radio systems, covering how to maintain reliable communication, protect radio performance, and apply sound communication discipline on the fire ground.

A comprehensive look at the duty of fair representation, explaining who it protects, when it applies, why it matters, and how union leaders can meet this critical responsibility while maintaining transparency and accountability.

A workshop on the often-overlooked practice of fire ground rehabilitation, teaching fire fighters and EMS personnel how to set up effective rehab operations, monitor health indicators, and maintain safety and performance during prolonged incidents.

This session will focus on strengthening internal and external organizing among federal fire fighters.

Learn how the Post-Employment Health Plan (PEHP) supports fire fighters in managing healthcare expenses after retirement, outlining how the tax-free benefit works, funding options, eligible expenses, and the reimbursement process.

Dr. Rachelle Zemlok, a fire fighter psychologist and fire spouse, explores the unique stressors faced by fire fighter families and shares practical, family-inclusive strategies leaders can use to better support their members at home.

A 2-Day Course, Part 1 of 2. A comprehensive negotiation track covering healthcare benefits, costing, budgeting, and tactics, designed to strengthen members’ skills in analyzing proposals, countering management strategies, and practicing effective bargaining through hands-on exercises. This track has been reviewed and approved for potential college credit by Purdue Global, our partner in education.

A 2-Day Course, Part 1 of 2. An applied collective bargaining track that builds practical skills in financial analysis, negotiation preparation, and contract execution through simulation exercises focused on strategy, communication, and effective problem-solving at the bargaining table. This track has been reviewed and approved for potential college credit by Purdue Global, our partner in education.

A 2-Day Course, Part 1 of 2. Prepares union officers to lead effectively by strengthening skills in governance, advocacy, member engagement, contract enforcement, and fair representation to build a stronger, more active Local. This track has been reviewed and approved for potential college credit by Purdue Global, our partner in education.

A 2-Day Course, Part 1 of 2. Winning campaigns start with strategy, not spending – this session breaks down how IAFF members can run effective grassroots efforts, build relationships, and become trusted public safety voices in their communities.

Part 4 of 5. A five-day, hands-on training that prepares fire fighters for confined space rescues through instruction on regulations, PPE, monitoring devices, ventilation, retrieval systems, and practical rescue techniques leading to certification.

Participants must have current Rope Rescue Operations–level qualifications. Additionally, students are required to bring their own full-body rescue harness, rescue helmet, rescue gloves, and hard-toe boots to participate in hands-on training evolutions.

A 3-Day Course, Part 3 of 3. Based on NFPA 1041 standards, this three-day certification course teaches fire fighters to deliver and adapt lesson plans, use instructional aids effectively, and create engaging, results-driven learning environments.

This workshop explores the integration of mental skills and stress inoculation into fire service training, emphasizing performance coaching techniques that enhance focus, resilience, and effectiveness under pressure.

This course equips fire fighters to safely handle photovoltaic and battery energy storage systems through updated codes, practical training, and use of the IAFF Energy Hazard Guide.

This 8-hour course provides IAFF members with hands-on and classroom training on managing multi-casualty incidents, emphasizing triage, medical intervention, interoperability, and alignment with NIMS, ICS Canada, and START Triage standards.

This practical course integrates IAFF Fire Ground Survival principles with proven rescue tactics to help fire fighters recognize danger early and execute effective, life-saving actions under pressure.

An 8-hour hands-on operations course that prepares fire fighters and company officers to assess risk, develop strategies, and safely operate in the expanding wildland–urban interface to protect lives and property.

Provides union officers with practical guidance on assessing, filing, and supporting grievances in non-collective bargaining environments to ensure fair, timely, and effective member representation.

Covers parliamentary procedures for Local meetings, including order of business, motion processing, recordkeeping, and best practices to ensure organized, efficient, and transparent union operations.

Covers Canada’s presumptive legislation on fire fighter health, updates to the Federal Fire Fighter Cancer Prevention Program, and an overview of the federal Public Safety Officer Benefit (PSOB) grant.

Builds confidence and communication skills through practical public speaking techniques, helping leaders deliver powerful messages and effectively advocate for their members in any setting.

The Communications workshops can be taken individually or as part of a 10-course track (Sessions 1–10). Completing the full Track is a prerequisite for applying to the advanced Communications Training Academy (CTA 2.0) in May 2026. Past CTA participants are not required to take the Communications Track to be eligible for CTA 2.0.

A 4-Hour Course, Part 2 of 2. An overview of how the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) intersect, clarifying key requirements, responsibilities, and the complex relationship between these two workplace protection laws.

A discussion-based session developed from lessons learned after the Newark shipboard fire, offering land-based fire fighters critical insight into ship construction, vessel stability, marine terminology, and tactical considerations for safely responding to low-frequency, high-risk ship fires.

Learn how FSRI’s latest research on suppression, ventilation, and search operations defines the gold standard for coordinated tactics that improve fire fighter safety and victim survivability.

Trains fire fighters of all ranks to recognize early Mayday indicators and apply prevention strategies, using Project Mayday’s audio analysis, UL/FSRI insights, and real-world footage to strengthen decision-making, accountability, and survival tactics on the fire ground.

Provides practical guidance for IAFF members and their families on disaster preparedness and resilience – using real-world examples to help build communication, evacuation, and recovery plans that keep families safe when fire fighters are on the frontlines.

Explores the growing risks of lithium-ion battery fires, detailing hazards such as thermal runaway, toxic off-gassing, and explosive reactions, while drawing lessons from real incidents and current research on protecting fire fighters from exposure.

Explains how the Fair Labor Standards Act applies to fire fighters, including the Section 7(k) exemption, classification rules, and common FLSA violations, with practical examples and guidance to help members understand and protect their overtime rights.

Explores how on-scene blood transfusion is transforming prehospital trauma care, equipping fire-based EMS personnel with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to safely administer blood products and improve outcomes for patients in severe shock.

Introduces the Gracie Medical Defense course, teaching fire and EMS personnel practical, non-aggressive self-defense and restraint techniques using the SafeWrap system to manage combative patients safely and prevent responder injuries.

EMTs/Paramedics: To receive EMS continuing education credits, you must enter your EMS license/certification or NREMT registry number in your profile and attend the entire workshop.

This session equips affiliate leaders with practical tools to help members achieve financial wellness at every career stage, covering budgeting, debt management, investing, retirement planning, and key topics like deferred compensation, mortgages, Social Security, and tax-efficient income strategies.

This session explains how venture capital ownership of public safety software affects pricing, reliability, and control, and offers key questions unions should ask every tech vendor.

Stay informed on key developments in federal labor relations, including the Biden Executive Order on bargaining, and recent Federal Labor Relations Authority and Federal Service Impasse Panel decisions.

Outlines the key responsibilities of union officers and provides strategies for effective advocacy, executive board collaboration, and member engagement to strengthen the Local’s organization and influence.

A panel discussion on fire department accreditation as a tool for continuous improvement, accountability, and labor–management collaboration, featuring experts from CPSE, CFAI, and the IAFF who will share real-world insights on the process, benefits, and challenges.

Guides participants through the IAFF’s grant-funded Responding to the Interface (RTI) and HazMat training programs, explaining how to apply, why to participate, and what to expect throughout the process.

Learn the fundamentals of smartphone videography and editing, including composition, lighting, audio, and storytelling techniques for creating clear, engaging digital content.

The Communications workshops can be taken individually or as part of a 10-course track (Sessions 1–10). Completing the full Track is a prerequisite for applying to the advanced Communications Training Academy (CTA 2.0) in May 2026. Past CTA participants are not required to take the Communications Track to be eligible for CTA 2.0.

This workshop reviews findings from the DHS AFG project, highlighting hazard priorities, protection expectations, gear limitations, and new IAFF efforts to realign PPE design and standards with the modern fire service.

An overview of two emerging construction trends – mass timber and single-stair buildings – and how these evolving code issues across North America impact fire fighter safety, operations, and response strategies.

 A session highlighting emerging research and best practices on women’s health and safety in the fire service – from reproductive health and pregnancy considerations to cancer prevention, gear fit, and strategies for long-term wellbeing and career longevity.

Shares Chief Kelly’s firsthand account of the 2018 Mendocino Complex Fire entrapment, offering a detailed look at the events, decisions, and leadership moments that unfolded, along with lessons learned from the U.S. Forest Service analysis and how they’ve since been applied to prevent similar tragedies.

Takes a clear, tactical look at the first 20 minutes of a high-rise fire response, outlining the key roles, assignments, and actions of first-due engine and truck companies, regardless of department size or staffing.

An inside perspective from a veteran labor arbitrator on what makes or breaks a case, featuring guidance on preparing evidence and witnesses, handling objections, and delivering effective statements during arbitration hearings.

An open forum with leading physicians covering the latest in emergency medicine, where participants can ask questions and discuss topics ranging from trauma care and scene safety to advances in respiratory, cardiac, and stroke treatment.

Introduces the Gracie Medical Defense course, teaching fire and EMS personnel practical, non-aggressive self-defense and restraint techniques using the SafeWrap system to manage combative patients safely and prevent responder injuries.

EMTs/Paramedics: To receive EMS continuing education credits, you must enter your EMS license/certification or NREMT registry number in your profile and attend the entire workshop.

A practical session on deferred compensation for IAFF members, addressing key questions about 401(a) plans, RFPs, self-directed brokerage options, working with consultants, navigating city management discussions, and strengthening contract language.

Explore how 3M Scott’s Incident Remote Data Collection suite enhances fireground accountability, situational awareness, and responder safety through real-time telemetry and integrated command tools.

Provides union officers with a practical overview of the arbitration process, including procedures, arbitrator selection, and cost-saving strategies for effectively resolving grievances beyond the Local level.

A 4-Hour Course, Part 1 of 2. Provides Local leaders with strategies to recruit, mentor, and develop new union leaders, strengthen member engagement across generations, and preserve organizational knowledge and values for the future.

Explores insights and strategies for fostering respect, collaboration, and positive human relations within Canadian fire departments.

An interactive session that teaches fire service leaders how to use ChatGPT effectively to save time, improve communication, and create clear, impactful content for members.

An in-person version of the IAFF’s new online program, this class offers a practical framework for conducting residential fire size-ups, with tactical considerations tied to fire dynamics, building era, materials, and occupancy.

Covers how the IAFF’s Medical Assistance Program (MAP) supports members and families navigating complex benefit claims after occupational illness or injury, outlining available services, the application process, and best practices for documentation, reporting, and appeals.

An inside look at the materials and chemical treatments used in modern structural firefighting PPE, featuring research on PFAS, flame retardants, and the standards and legislation shaping safer gear for the fire service.

A look at how the 10 Key Characteristics of Carcinogens help explain increased cancer risk among fire fighters, reviewing research on how occupational exposures trigger mechanisms like inflammation, oxidative stress, and DNA damage.

Highlights how the five pillars of WFI: Igniting Change – Define, Pursue, Support, Restore, and Promote – work together to build a comprehensive, culture-driven wellness framework that supports fire fighters throughout their careers.

Examines the evolving role of ketamine in EMS, balancing its benefits and controversies through discussion of pharmacology, dosing, patient selection, and case studies that highlight safe, effective, and legally sound use in the field.

Part 5 of 5. A five-day, hands-on training that prepares fire fighters for confined space rescues through instruction on regulations, PPE, monitoring devices, ventilation, retrieval systems, and practical rescue techniques leading to certification.

Participants must have current Rope Rescue Operations–level qualifications. Additionally, students are required to bring their own full-body rescue harness, rescue helmet, rescue gloves, and hard-toe boots to participate in hands-on training evolutions.

A 2-Day Course, Part 2 of 2. A comprehensive negotiation track covering healthcare benefits, costing, budgeting, and tactics, designed to strengthen members’ skills in analyzing proposals, countering management strategies, and practicing effective bargaining through hands-on exercises. This track has been reviewed and approved for potential college credit by Purdue Global, our partner in education.

A 2-Day Course, Part 2 of 2. An applied collective bargaining track that builds practical skills in financial analysis, negotiation preparation, and contract execution through simulation exercises focused on strategy, communication, and effective problem-solving at the bargaining table. This track has been reviewed and approved for potential college credit by Purdue Global, our partner in education.

A 2-Day Course, Part 2 of 2. Prepares union officers to lead effectively by strengthening skills in governance, advocacy, member engagement, contract enforcement, and fair representation to build a stronger, more active Local. This track has been reviewed and approved for potential college credit by Purdue Global, our partner in education.

A 2-Day Course, Part 2 of 2. Winning campaigns start with strategy, not spending – this session breaks down how IAFF members can run effective grassroots efforts, build relationships, and become trusted public safety voices in their communities.

This hands-on course applies modern fire science and IAFF-tested tactics to improve strategy, coordination, and decision-making in today’s complex fire environments.

An intensive, hands-on 8-hour class that trains fire fighters to manage elevator emergencies safely and effectively through practical rescue scenarios, technical instruction, and teamwork-based strategies for complex urban incidents.

Explains how arbitrators interpret collective bargaining agreements, examining contract language, past practice, and intent to help union leaders understand and navigate dispute resolution effectively.

A 4-Hour Course, Part 2 of 2. Provides Local leaders with strategies to recruit, mentor, and develop new union leaders, strengthen member engagement across generations, and preserve organizational knowledge and values for the future.

Demonstrates how AI tools such as Perplexity, Originality AI, and NotebookLM can enhance union leadership by improving research, policy development, and decision-making while ensuring accuracy, integrity, and privacy.

This session breaks down UL FSRI research on electric vehicle fires – examining battery fire dynamics, water application, and tactical size-up strategies for today’s evolving hazards.

Covers how to navigate and advocate for medical screenings within the fire service, outlining recommended tests, how to evaluate third-party options, and key factors like epidemiology, risk, and cost when making screening and funding decisions.

Provides an overview of emerging multi-cancer detection (MCD) blood tests, explaining how biomarkers are developed, how these tests fit within the National Cancer Institute’s research framework, and what fire fighters should know about their current availability and regulation.

Provides an overview of NIOSH’s Fire Fighter Fatality Investigation and Prevention Program (FFFIPP), explaining how trauma-related investigations are conducted and how their findings, lessons learned, and prevention strategies can be applied to strengthen safety and reduce future line-of-duty deaths and injuries.

An overview of IAFF programs and services that help members build healthier, safer careers – from wellness and behavioral health support to injury prevention, training, and resources designed to strengthen every department’s health and safety plan.

An evidence-based look at how to determine when ALS or BLS care is most appropriate, developing sound decision-making frameworks that balance patient acuity, transport time, and clinical outcomes.

Learn how to create fair, legally sound reproductive health policies that support fire fighters through pregnancy, infertility, and postpartum recovery while maintaining operational readiness.

Teaches union officers how to collect, evaluate, and present effective evidence in grievance arbitration, emphasizing admissibility, credibility, and strategies for building a strong, persuasive case.

Facilitates a discussion on emerging parental leave issues in the fire service, engaging participants in dialogue with IAFF Human Relations Committee members to explore policies and best practices.

Explore how Locals can use visual storytelling and AI tools to create more compelling presentations for negotiations, education, and outreach.

Provides a comprehensive look at alternative fuel vehicles – from CNG and hydrogen to electric models – covering their evolution, unique hazards, and tactical considerations, while emphasizing the tools, strategies, and training needed to manage these increasingly common incidents safely.

A discussion on the role of fitness testing in the fire service, examining when and why assessments matter, what alternatives exist, and how departments can design programs that truly support healthy, capable, and mission-ready fire fighters.

Prepares fire-based EMS personnel to manage the unique medical challenges of wildfire operations, covering treatment for heat and smoke-related injuries, cardiac events, and other emergencies in remote, high-stress environments with limited resources.