Fire Service Women Ontario Symposium

FSWO Annual Training Symposium 2026
October 22-24, 2026
Fire and Emergency Services Training Institute (FESTI)

Join Fire Service Women Ontario for three incredible days of training, leadership, connection, and professional development at the 2026 FSWO Annual Training Symposium, taking place October 22–24, 2026, at the Fire and Emergency Services Training Institute (FESTI) in Mississauga, Ontario.

This year’s Symposium brings together an outstanding lineup of instructors, speakers, fire service leaders, and industry partners from across Canada and beyond, with hands-on training, classroom sessions, leadership development, wellness and women’s health programming, networking, and more.

Featured Speakers

We are proud to welcome Sandra Perron, Canada’s first female infantry officer, bestselling author, and founder of the Pepper Pod. Sandra’s remarkable story of leadership, resilience, and breaking barriers offers powerful lessons that connect directly to the challenges and opportunities facing today’s fire service.

We are also excited to welcome Dena Ali, Battalion Chief with the Raleigh Fire Department and a respected leader in first responder behavioural health. Dena will join us Thursday evening during our Trade Show and Networking Event, bringing her powerful perspective on leadership, mental wellness, resilience, and supporting those who serve.

Beyond the classroom and training ground, the Symposium is about connection and community. Meet fellow firefighters, officers, chiefs, instructors, industry partners, and allies at our Thursday evening Trade Show and Networking Event, celebrate the accomplishments of our fire service community at the Awards Gala Breakfast, and connect in a more relaxed setting at our Friday evening social.

Whether you are new to the fire service, looking to build your skills, stepping into leadership, or bringing years of experience to the table, the FSWO Symposium offers an opportunity to learn, challenge yourself, build lasting connections, and be part of a growing fire service community.

Three days. Exceptional training. Inspiring speakers. Real connections.

What You'll Experience:

✅ Hands-On Training (HOT) – High-rise firefighting, rescue techniques, tactical entry, and more
✅ In-Class Sessions – Leadership development, resilient minds training, fire investigations
✅ Exclusive Networking – Connect with chiefs, veterans, and rising stars in fire service
✅ Awards Gala & Social Events – Celebrate achievements and build lasting relationships

Who Should Attend:

  • Suppression personnel
  • Fire prevention officers
  • Communications specialists
  • Training officers
  • Fire program students
  • ALL fire service members and allies welcome

About Fire Service Women Ontario

Since 2009, FSWO has been the driving force behind gender equity in Ontario's fire service. As a women-led organization, we welcome all fire service members and allies who support our mission of creating an inclusive, equitable workplace.

Our Impact:

  • Award-winning Camp FFIT program (ages 15-19)
  • Mentoring programs connecting women across the province
  • Partnerships with Lambton College and Algonquin College
  • 400+ active members and growing

Our Mission: Encourage, educate, and empower women in Ontario's fire service

Our Vision: Gender equity is the norm – not the exception!

Our Values:

Accountability – We advocate for real change
Collaboration – Together we're stronger
Inclusion – Every voice matters
Support – Building networks that last

Ready to Transform Your Career?

Registration opens August 2026. Spots fill fast – our symposium has sold out three years running.

Stay updated: fswo.ca

Don't just attend – be part of the movement shaping the future of inclusive fire service.