Thursday Course Descriptions
Thursday Course Descriptions
For all HOT classes please check PPE requirements. For all in class sessions please come with a notebook and writing utensil.
High-Rise Firefighting Tactics: Strategies for Vertical Incidents
This presentation updates the fire service on the equipment and tactics for firefighting in high-rise buildings. As cities worldwide experience a surge in high-rise construction—encompassing mixed-use, podium-based towers, and timber-frame structures—we urgently need to revise our tactics and training methods. We will examine techniques for improvised standpipes, address difficult exterior cladding fires, and efficiently flank a fire. Additionally, we will evaluate the challenges of wind-impacted fires and review the effectiveness of our exterior stream reach. Our focus is on mastering these critical skills to improve our firefighting tactics!
Instructor: Brent Brooks
Brent Brooks advocates best practices in the fire service and is an Author who specializes in high-rise firefighting. He has served on various committees and has spoken at national and international engagements in Great Britain, Dubai, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and the USA. He is an FDIC instructor and a panellist on Fire Engineering’s Hump Day Hang Out. He is also on the Canadian chapter of The Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) board and is a member of the Chicago-based Council of Tall Buildings. He represents Canada as a T70 Tall Building Safety Committee member based in London, England. Brent's Community of Practice has a wide reach. He has personally donated his time to over 100 fire departments internationally. He aims to educate the next generation of firefighters on best practices for occupant survival and firefighter safety in High-Rise firefighting.
Pre-requisites: None
PPE: Full bunker gear - Steel toe boots - Helmet - Gloves
Rescue Drag Bonanza
Life safety is our #1 fireground priority. We will start the day in class looking at search techniques to locate occupants. The majority of the class will focus on learning rescue drags for various situations including: feet first drags, head first drags, dragging occupants with webbing, and options for large occupants. We will finish the class with a few scenarios, so you can practice what you’ve learned. As firefighters, we take ownership of the problems of people that we serve. This is why we search. Are you ready to make the rescue?
Instructor: Jessica Clermont
Firefighter with Toronto Fire Services since 2008, currently holds rank of Acting Captain. Volunteer Firefighter with the City of Kawartha Lakes since 2023. Forcible entry, RIT, High-Rise Ops, Vent Saw Instructor for TFS. Instructor at Centennial and Fleming College Firefighter Pre-Service Programs. Conferences attended include: FSWO, FDIC, CHC, NYSFC, WIFIC, Smoke is Showing, and FSWBC. My favorite weapons are hockey sticks and halligan bars. I have 4 dogs, 1 cat, and 1 human.
Pre-requisites: None
PPE: Full bunker gear - Steel toe boots - Helmet - Gloves
Up and Out: Fireground Ladder Rescue Scenarios
This hands-on training session focuses on essential ground ladder operations critical to fireground success. You will develop practical skills in deploying ladders efficiently, conducting Vent-Enter-Isolate-Search (VEIS), and executing victim rescues using a two-firefighter technique. Emphasis will be placed on efficient ground ladder handling and deployment, safe and effective entry into upper-floor windows, and coordinated victim removal while maintaining firefighter safety. By the end of the session, participants will be able to demonstrate the ability to integrate these components into a smooth and effective rescue operation under realistic conditions.
Instructors: Nancy Merocchi and Katrina Dos Santos
Nancy Merocchi is a first class firefighter with Markham Fire and Emergency Services with 5 years of experience. She is an Associate Instructor with the Seneca College Pre Service program, she is an On Shift Instructor for the Markham Fire auto extrication program, and has recently been seconded in the Markham Training Division as a Training Officer for the 2025 recruit class. Nancy is also a member of Markham's Special Operations Rescue Team, specializing in heavy rescue, elevator rescue and auto extraction.
Katrina Dos Santos is also a first class firefighter with Markham Fire with 7 years of experience. She is also an Associate Instructor with the Fire and Emergency Services Training Institute, she is an On Shift Instructor for the medical program, and has experience in the Markham Fire training division as a seconded Training Officer. Katrina is part of the Markham Squad team, specializing in technical rope rescue and water rescue.
Pre-requisites: None
PPE: Full bunker gear - SCBA with bottle, Steel toe boots - Helmet - Gloves
Forcible Entry Techniques for Commercial Doors
- This class will focus on tough forcible entry issues that are found in commercial settings.
- Forcing outward swinging doors that are steel and set in steel frames.
- How to deal with high security padlocks that are commonplace in commercial buildings.
- Forcing Drop Bars. Drop Bars are common on commercial buildings. This class will show students how to deal with these problems
Instructor: Andrew Brassard
Andrew Brassard is a full time firefighter with Milton Fire Department with over 20 years of experience. He is also a volunteer firefighter in his home town. Andrew has taught many subjects including Forcible Entry all over Canada and the USA. Co-Owner of a company called Rescue Squad Ironworks, it is a company that manufactures fire training props.
Pre-requisites: None
PPE: Full bunker gear - Steel toe boots - Helmet - Gloves
Cutting Edge: Advanced Auto Ex Scenarios and Solutions
This session will focus on the following skills:
1. Advanced lifting- Participants will gain a better understanding of air bag lifting principles, and the use of static and dynamic stabilization techniques in order to carry out a safe lifting operation.
2. New approaches for new technology- Participants will utilize new vehicle technology and incorporate strategies to create a positive outcome for their patients.
3. Rapid Extrication techniques- Participants will be given multiple different scenarios that would constitute the need for rapid extrication, and mitigate these issues with different options for efficient removal.
Instructors: Oakville Fire Department Auto Extrication Team
Oakville Fire Department Auto Extrication Team- Established in 2003, the team is comprised of firefighters who volunteer their time to train and compete in rescue competitions throughout North America. The team has had some notable achievements since its inception, they include - 2014 the team was crowned TERC North American Champions which includes 1st in all scenarios, best medic and IC, Hagerman NY., 2017 NAVRA First Place in Limited pit and most technical team Clearwater Beach FL., 2019 WRO LaRochelle France, a 6th place finish against 36 of the top ranked teams in the world!
While competing has always been a high priority for the team, the main focus has always been continuing education and training. The team learns the latest skills and techniques from world-class trainers and competitive teams. They can then bring these new skills back to the OFD and enhance our department's rescue capabilities through hands-on training and education.
Chad Roberts - Currently in my 17th year as a career firefighter with the Oakville Fire Department, I am currently an Acting Captain on the heavy rescue. Regarding the extrication world, I have been a member of the department's extrication team for over 12 years, and currently assess rescue challenges across North America.
My passion for training and betterment of those around me has driven me to be a shift instructor for many of our tech rescue disciplines, such as Auto extrication, Rope rescue, Swift/Surface and Ice water rescue, and Confined Space rescue. In addition to my time spent training within my own department, I continue to teach and train at many different events and multiple Pre-Service programs across Ontario.
Marcel Perreault - Firefighter with the Town of Oakville with over 20 years of combined fire service, assigned to P204. I am currently an auto-extrication shift instructor and the Captain of Oakville's Auto Extrication Team. I have been training and competing in extrication competitions all over North America and Europe for the past 11 years. My passion and experience in the fire service has also led me to instructing outside of the OFD for various organizations and Pre-Service Fire Programs within Ontario and the US.
Kurtis Mantell is a 17-year career firefighter with the Oakville Fire Department, who currently holds the rank of Acting Captain riding Rescue 205. He is also an On Shift Training Instructor for Vehicle Rescue and Rope Rescue.
Pre-requisites: None
PPE: Full bunker gear - Steel toe boots - Helmet - Gloves
Resilient Minds: Building the Psychological Strength of Fire Fighters
The Resilient MindsTM 8-hour course contains four modules that were developed by fire fighters for fire fighters to increase the ability to:
• Recognize the effects of psychological stress/trauma in self and peers
• Understand trauma-informed practices
• Communicate with peers who may be struggling
• Using evidence-based trauma informed approach to respond, safely, and appropriately to distressed citizens
• Apply personal strategies for managing stress, mitigating trauma, and boosting resilience
What fire fighters are saying about our program:
“The facilitators created a safe, comfortable and interesting learning environment. We were impressed with the interactive capabilities of the Zoom classroom and the way it was incorporated into the course. They taught us coping skills such as the 4R Action Toolkit that we will be able to take into our careers and use to remain healthy for ourselves and our families. As members of the fire service, we would recommend this course to anyone involved in emergency response.”
– Fire Fighter recruits in Class 2021-01 (A Platoon), Whitby Fire & Emergency Services, Ontario
Instructors: Teagan Knowles and Katerina Barton
Teagan Knowles began her career in emergency services in 2017 as a Communicator with the Brantford Police Service. In 2019 she decided it was time for a change and she joined the fire family as a Communicator with the Brantford Fire Department. Since then Teagan has stepped into the role of Fire Safety Educator (FSE) and has held the position since 2021. Although she enjoyed her time serving her community as a 9-1-1- operator Teagan values being able to take a proactive approach to protecting her community by teaching about fire and life safety in her role as FSE. Teagan holds an undergraduate degree in Sociology from the University of Guelph and loves applying sociological concepts in her pursuit of Community Risk Reduction. She is currently pursuing further education in leadership. She is proud to also be serving as a Director on the board of the Ontario Association of Fire Educators (OAFE). Outside of her fire service career Teagan has a passion for food and beverage. She enjoys spending her time cooking, trying new restaurants and working part-time at a casual fine dining restaurant.
Katerina Barton is the Manager of Planning and Finance at the London Fire Department, and a PhD student researching the culture and language of suicide in relation to the efficacy of suicide prevention programs. With several years spent practicing in the mental health field and six years in Fire, she can provide perspective across these areas and combine experience from both to help support those in the fire service and beyond.
Pre-requisites: None
Nutrition and Resiliency for First Responders
In this 4 hour session there will be two hours of hands-on meal preparation and two hours of lecture/discussion with a break. After this session you will be able to: -discover how shift work and a stressful career impacts nutrition and resiliency on the job -unlock the secrets to combat cravings successfully -reveal proven strategies for lasting healthy habits -transform your environment for success -master healthy snacking & kick brain fog to the curb -get hands-on experience creating budget-friendly high-protein recipes. Each participant will receive a healthy habits handbook and create homemade protein bars.
Instructor: Jaclyn Halko
Jaclyn Halko is a Registered Dietitian, active duty firefighter, and former national team rower for both Canada and Poland. A 2012 World Champion and 2019 Pan Am gold medalist, she now channels her passion for health and performance into 911 Nutrition—a coaching practice dedicated to first responders. Drawing from her firsthand experience in high-stress environments, Jackie offers personalized nutrition strategies to help first responders optimize energy, resilience, and long-term wellness. Her mission is to empower those who serve to thrive both on and off duty.
Pre-requisites: None
Advanced Vehicle Technologies and Response Tactics for EV’s
Roadway collisions, vehicle fires, and in-vehicle emergencies are common incident types that we as responders encounter. As automotive technology advances, understanding modern vehicle technologies prepares us to respond safely and effectively. This session, provided by General Motors, will introduce you to advanced vehicle technologies and response tactics, including: OnStar vehicle telematics, Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, and the basics of responding to incidents involving battery electric vehicles.
Instructors: Charlene Poranganel and Mitch Petterson
With experiences in training and emergency operations, Charlene Poranganel currently serves as the Global Public Safety Engagement Leader at General Motors. In this role, she supports Canada and global regions8 by educating the first responder community on OnStar emergency services and technologies, and how OnStar collaborates with first responders during emergency incidents. Previously, Charlene managed emergency call operations for in-vehicle emergencies, including EMD call handling, stolen vehicle and missing persons incidents, and customer satisfaction for OnStar members across North America. She also played a key role in implementing critical incident stress management programs within the OnStar emergency operations center to support advisors after handling challenging calls.
Mitch Petterson is a member of the Public Safety Engagement Team at General Motors. As part of his role at GM, Mitch serves as a Subject Matter Expert and Trainer on both EV First Responder interactions and OnStar vehicle telematics. Mitch retired from a twenty-eight year career as a Firefighter/Paramedic with a fire department in the Detroit Metropolitan area. Throughout his career he served in number of roles and ranks including the last six years of his career as the Fire Chief. Mitch is a certified Fire Instructor and EMS Instructor/Coordinator and has also earned degrees in Public Safety Administration and Business Administration.
Pre-requisites: None
Best Practices - Maximizing Benefits for Learning with Private and Public Sectors Through Collaboration
Best Practices - Maximizing Benefits for Learning when Private and Public Sectors Through Collaboration: This will provide you with a fundamental understanding of best practices for fire investigations and how collaboration between the public and private sectors can provide the best opportunity for learning for all while accomplishing each organization's specific goals.
Instructor: Said Ismail
Said Ismail is a licensed professional engineer and certified and explosion investigator, also managing Southwestern Ontario for OCI Group with over 16 years of experience where he specialized in product design and certification, incident and fire investigations and equipment failures. He specializes in electrical and electronic failures, product liability and fire investigation, with particular expertise in electrical code and product standard compliance. Said has overseen hundreds of investigations identifying the failure of equipment, installations and processes which contributed to electrical incidents, and has performed over 60 root cause investigations to determine the cause of electrical incidents which resulted in critical injuries, fatalities and/or large losses. Said has been with OCI Group for the past four years and has been involved in over 300 investigations involving fires resulting from many causes and has been involved with inspections of electrical wiring and equipment involved with failures and fires.
Pre-requisites: None
Leading Beyond the Line: Celebrating Women in Non-Traditional Fire Service Leadership Roles
Join us for an inspiring and thought-provoking panel discussion featuring accomplished women leaders in the fire service. This session will explore the unique journeys of each panelist, highlighting the challenges they've overcome and the pivotal moments that shaped their careers.
Panelists will share insights into the initiatives they have led—or contributed to—that have driven meaningful change within their organizations and communities. The conversation will also focus on practical advice for aspiring women leaders, offering strategies for building confidence, fostering resilience, and supporting one another’s growth in a traditionally male-dominated profession.
Whether you're an emerging leader or a seasoned professional, this session promises to provide valuable takeaways, shared experiences, and a renewed sense of connection and purpose.
Panellists: Jenn Dawkins, President, Fire Service Women British Columbia (FSWBC) | Melissa Gennaro, Division Chief, Toronto Fire Services | Georgina Gilbert, South Wales Fire and Rescue Service | Sarah Peto, President, Fire Service Women Central Provinces (FSWCP) | Lydia Wilcox, President, Fire Service Women Ontario (FSWO)
Moderator: Kristy Lynn Pankhurst
Jenn Dawkins began her career in Maple Ridge in 1997 where she served 3 years before getting hired in Vancouver in 2000. Currently an acting Captain in suppression, Jenn has been part of several specialties including hazmat, heavy rescue and HUSAR and has worked in many divisions including Recruitment and Outreach, Public Education, and the Training Division. She has been an Instructor with the Justice Institute of BC for several years. In 2010, Jenn was one of the founders of Camp Ignite and served as the Program Director for its first 11 years. She has a Certificate in Emergency Management and is currently completing her Bachelor’s in Interdisciplinary Studies. In 2021 Jenn became a board member for Fire Service Women Ontario and through that experience is excited to be FSWBC Founding President and continue her role as a leader serving the Women in the Fire Service British Columbia. Jenn is the recipient of the King’s Coronation Medal recognized for her work to women in the fire service across Canada.
Melissa Gennaro is Division Chief in the Office of the Fire Chief at Toronto Fire Services, where she brings a thoughtful, inclusive approach to leadership. Since joining TFS in 2017 and stepping into her current role in 2023, Melissa has championed collaboration, strategy, and equity in the fire service. Her leadership during Toronto’s COVID-19 response reflected her core belief: that true leadership is built on trust, purpose, and making space for others to succeed. With a passion for breaking barriers in traditionally male-dominated environments, Melissa leads with empathy and conviction—paving the way for more inclusive, representative leadership across the fire service. She holds an Honours BA from the University of Toronto and a Certificate in Leading Change from the Rotman School of Management.
Georgina Gilbert has been a firefighter for 26 years and currently serves with South Wales Fire and Rescue Service. Georgina is an ambassador for gender equality and has an ambition to see more women striving to do whatever job they want to do in life; always ensuring she is visible as a role model for women wanting to embark on a career that doesn’t fit society’s stereotypes.
She loves competing at a high level and qualified to represent Great Britain’s Age Group Triathlon Team and has scaled mountains such as Elbrus and Kilimanjaro. Georgina has also recently been nominated for ‘Most Influential LGBT and individual in the Fire Service’ by Excellence in Fire and Emergency two years running.
Sarah Peto is a barrier-breaking leader in the fire service, serving as Lieutenant II with Brandon Fire & Emergency Services and bringing 24 years of frontline experience. As the second woman ever hired—and the first female officer—in her department, Sarah has spent her career creating space for others to follow. A graduate of the Manitoba Emergency Services College, she also completed a four-year degree in Applied Disaster and Emergency Services while working full-time. Beyond her operational leadership, Sarah is deeply committed to mental health advocacy, leading peer support through Project Resilience 911. In 2024, she helped launch Fire Service Women Central Provinces, building a network of support, inclusion, and mentorship for women in fire across Western Canada. Her story reflects strength, perseverance, and a drive to lift others as she leads—making her an inspiring voice on this Breaking Barriers panel.
Lydia Wilcox is a passionate leader and advocate for diversity in the fire service, currently serving as President of Fire Service Women Ontario (FSWO). With over 17 years of experience at the Kitchener Fire Department, she has contributed significantly to both Fire Prevention and Operations. Since joining the FSWO board in 2014, Lydia has driven key initiatives including developing and implementing the mentoring program, planning symposiums and educational sessions, and collaborating on the influential ‘Insights from the Inside’ research paper that shaped the FSWO toolkit. She actively represents FSWO at major forums such as the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs and the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs, championing women leaders in firefighting. Holding a Master of Public Administration from Western University, Lydia continues to build her expertise through leadership programs, including enrollment in the Fire Service Executive Management Certificate Program, the Dare to Command program, and the CAFC’s Rapid Response Leadership Development Program.
Pre-requisites: None
Acting Up: Stepping into Leadership in the Fire Service
"Understanding the Responsibilities, Mindset, and Opportunities of Stepping into a Fire Officer Role"
This interactive presentation explores what it means to "act up" in the fire service — stepping into the role of a fire officer on a temporary basis. Whether you're filling a short-term vacancy or gaining experience toward promotion, acting up presents unique challenges and valuable opportunities for growth. Participants will gain insight into the core responsibilities of fire officers, common challenges faced when stepping into leadership, and practical strategies for success. We’ll also examine how organizations can better support acting officers and what leadership skills are critical to building long-term career development. Designed for emerging leaders and current members of the fire service considering advancement, this session combines presentation, discussion, and reflection — empowering participants to approach acting roles with clarity, confidence, and purpose
Instructor: Debra Rogers
Debra Rogers is the Acting Captain and Fire Investigator with the Campbell River Fire Department (CRFD) in British Columbia. She began her fire service career in 2009 as a dispatcher and, in 2017, transitioned to the suppression division, becoming the first professional female firefighter in CRFD's history. Beyond her operational duties, Debra is a passionate advocate for gender equity in the fire service. She is the founding President of the Island Ignite Mentorship Society, which offers hands-on training and mentorship to young women aspiring to careers in firefighting. Additionally, she serves as the Project Manager for Fire Service Women BC, overseeing initiatives funded by a Women and Gender Equality grant to support and connect women in the fire service. In recognition of her contributions, Debra received the BC Achievement Foundation's Community Award in 2025. She continues to lead by example, fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment within the fire service.
Pre-requisites: None
Lithium-Ion Batteries
Lithium-ion Batteries: This will provide a fundamental knowledge of the structure/makeup of lithium batteries, their hazards, uses, types and causes of failure with case studies.
Instructor: Raina Chamberlain
Raina Chamberlain is a Fire Investigator with OCI Group, who specializes in fire investigation and electrical failures. With just over 2 years of experience, she has completed 100+ fire investigations and assisted with 150+ electrical examinations.
Pre-requisites: None
You Can’t Say That! - and other communication myths that keep us from connection
Messages about what we should and shouldn’t talk about as women are fed to us from childhood. We’re not supposed to complain about our struggles or brag about our achievements. We can’t talk about trauma, fear, or grief: we’ll burden others. We can’t talk about sex, bodies, or spirituality: that’s too personal. We'll use the 8-minute Connection practice as a framework for opening the door to communication, stop hiding who we are, and learn how to talk about what matters so we can enjoy nourishing, intimate connections that bring us hope and healing when we need it most.
Instructor: DiAnna Ritola
DiAnna Ritola is an Interfaith Minister, counselor, educator, and healer who has been fire-service-adjacent for nearly a decade as the partner of a fire officer with FDNY. She works primarily in women’s trauma and healing using a range of modalities centered in somatic therapies, honest communication, and the power of relationship to repair the cracks and wounds that life brings. She believes, like the Japanese art of kintsugi, we are stronger when we let our broken and repaired parts shine through.
Pre-requisites: None
Firefighter Rescues in Ontario - A Summary of Data to Develop Evidence Based Best Practice on the Fireground
This course will highlight novel data that is being captured on civilian rescues by Fire Service personnel from structure fires. This lecture will compare provincial data captured independently with data sets from other researchers such as Firefighter Rescue Survey to showcase trends and develop evidence based best practices for firefighters to implement at their next call.
Instructor: Anthony De Benedicits
Anthony De Benedictis is a Career Firefighter and Fire Service Instructor located in the GTA. With an extensive history in the sports medicine field as an Athletic Therapist and Strength and Conditioning Coach, his unique perspective allows him to understand what it takes to train and operate to a high level. His professional project 211 Performance Therapy (211PT) aims to educate and empower Tactical Athletes to improve all aspects of job performance and overall health, wellness and resilience.
Pre-requisites: None
Toronto is a Vertical City and Residential Highrise
This presentation has two parts. Part 1 will focus on Residential Highrise Inspections – TFS Approach. It will outline how Toronto Fire Services manages the inspection of residential highrise buildings through a structured and risk-based process. You will learn how inspection priorities are determined, what inspectors look for on-site—including critical life safety systems and Fire Code compliance— and how SOGs and proper documentation guide our work. The session will also highlight enforcement practices, collaborative follow-up with key divisions, and lessons learned that continue to shape inspection strategies and improve fire safety outcomes citywide.
The second part will focus on what a highrise is, why they are designed to be safe, and what are the primary concerns. When you live in a highrise, knowing when to evacuate and when to shelter in place is of paramount importance. Since the City of Toronto is now a vertical city, it impacts every service we provide including fire safety education. With the second largest community housing profile in North America, we have developed key partnerships with agencies that can help amplify our messaging including both Toronto Community Housing and Toronto Senior's Community Housing. Come learn about some of Toronto's historical highrise fires and the important lessons we have learned. Finally, find out about two 2025 highrise fires that occurred in the same building within a month, and how they were impacted by accumulations of lithium ion batteries, a trending fire risk both globally and in Toronto.
Instructors: Marla Friebe and Laura Boyko
Marla Friebe joined the Toronto Fire Department in 1990 as an Operations Firefighter, and has spent numerous years in other roles including as an Inspector, and Public Information Officer, Public Educator, and both Training Captain in Operations and Inspections. In 2002 she published a coffee table book on the history of Toronto Fire Services from 1874 to 2002. Marla's passion has always been serving the citizens of Toronto. In 2023 she was promoted to the fulltime position of Division Chief of Public Education and Professional Development, and has recently had the opportunity to act for 6 months as the Deputy Chief of Community Risk Reduction.
Pre-requisites: None
Trailblazers in the Fire Service: Leading the Way for Women
This powerful panel celebrates the remarkable journeys of some of Canada’s leading women fire chiefs—trailblazers who have forged new paths and helped redefine leadership in the fire service. Through candid conversation and storytelling, panelists will reflect on their personal experiences, the challenges they’ve overcome, and the successes that have shaped their careers.
Moderated by FSWO President Lydia Wilcox, the discussion will explore themes of leadership, resilience, and mentorship, while addressing the unique barriers women face in rising through the ranks. Designed to empower the next generation of leaders, this session offers invaluable insight and practical advice for those aspiring to make an impact in the fire service and beyond.
Whether you're a new recruit or a seasoned professional, this conversation promises to leave you informed, inspired, and ready to lead with purpose.
Panellists: Debrah Bergeson, Deputy Chief, Calgary Fire Department | Louise Hine-Schmidt, Deputy Chief, Ottawa Fire Services | Deputy Chief Samantha Hoffmann, Deputy Chief, Caledon Fire and Emergency Services | Keri Martins, Fire Chief, Banff Fire Department | Kalpana Rajgopalan, Deputy Chief, Oakville Fire Department
Moderator: Lydia Wilcox
Deputy Chief Deb Bergeson has been breaking barriers in the fire service since joining the Calgary Fire Department in 1998, following a decade of international sport competition and earning degrees in Physical Education and Science. As Calgary’s first woman Captain, Deb spent over 20 years on the frontlines before moving into leadership, where she has continued to drive change. In her role as Assistant Deputy Chief, she established the Operational Effectiveness & Engagement division, focused on culture, people-centred leadership, and equity in the workplace. Promoted to Deputy Chief in 2023 and now leading Operations, Deb continues to champion inclusion and belonging—both in practice and through her ongoing thesis for a Master’s in Leadership. Her career reflects a deep commitment to transforming fire service culture and creating space for others to thrive.
Deputy Chief Louise Hine-Schmidt has been a pioneering leader in Ottawa Fire Services since 1999, becoming one of the first women hired by the department and rising to Deputy Chief in 2022 where she oversees operations and training. As a founding member of Fire Service Women Ontario (FSWO) and a driving force behind Camp FFIT, she is deeply committed to supporting, mentoring, and inspiring women in firefighting. With extensive technical expertise and a background as a national-level athlete, Louise embodies resilience and leadership, making her a powerful advocate for diversity and inclusion in emergency services and a vital voice on this panel.
Deputy Chief Samantha Hoffmann brings over 30 years of experience in fire prevention, public education, and emergency planning to her leadership role with Caledon Fire and Emergency Services. Appointed in 2022 as Caledon’s first Deputy Chief of Community Safety, she champions proactive public engagement and innovative fire prevention strategies. Samantha’s career spans roles with Toronto Fire Services and Barrie Fire, with a strong focus on community partnerships and safety programs, including the award-winning Older Adult Home Safety Program. As the first Ontarian honored as the National Fire Protection Association’s Public Fire and Life Safety Educator of the Year, she is a passionate mentor and advocate for women in the fire service. Her dedication to education, leadership, and community empowerment makes her a vital voice on this panel.
Keri Martens is the Fire Chief for the Town of Banff, bringing more than 30 years of experience in emergency services, leadership, and community safety. She began her career as a volunteer firefighter in Lake Louise in the early 1990s and went on to serve as Fire Chief there for 18 years, before moving into senior leadership roles in both Canmore and Banff. Known for her calm leadership and operational expertise, Chief Martens has responded to over 1,000 emergency calls throughout her career and has twice deployed with Canada Task Force 2 to support national wildfire and disaster response operations. She currently serves on the board of the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs and is an active member of its Climate Emergency Committee. A founding member of the Women Fire Chiefs and Company Officers Network of Canada, she is a passionate advocate for inclusive leadership, equity in the fire service, and mentoring the next generation of emergency responders.
Deputy Fire Chief Kalpana Rajgopalan brings over 17 years of diverse experience in fire services and emergency management to her leadership role with the Oakville Fire Department, where she oversees Fire Prevention, Public Education, and External Stakeholder Engagement. A recognized leader in public safety, Kalpana played key roles in major national efforts including the G8/G20 Summits, the Syrian Refugee Program, and the COVID-19 response, earning the King Charles III Coronation Medal for her contributions. As a passionate advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion, she co-founded the Blaze Fire Academy, a program empowering young women and underrepresented groups to explore careers in firefighting through hands-on training and mentorship. Kalpana’s vision and dedication to building inclusive pathways make her a powerful voice for women and diversity in the fire service.
Pre-requisites: None
Beyond the Physical - Why it is important to focus on personal and professional development throughout your career
It is easy to generalize that a strong firefighter is a good firefighter. Society's beliefs (both inside and outside of the fire service) tend to lean towards physical size and strength as the main attributes of a capable firefighter. But what happens when illness, injury or other circumstances occur, and your physical abilities become limited? How do you ensure you are still able to be a good firefighter? Developing yourself personally is key to ensuring you continue to develop professionally throughout your career. I will share my story of how a rare central nervous system cancer diagnosis did not disrupt my career as an operational firefighter in the Calgary Fire Department. I will share how early professional development, mental resilience, emotional intelligence and leadership skills can help everyone ensure a long career in the fire service both inside and outside of suppression.
Instructor: Mary Fischer
Mary Fischer is a Qualified District Chief with the Calgary Fire Department. She has been involved in the fire service in BC and AB for over 30 years, including 24 years with Calgary Fire. A rare cancer diagnosis provided the opportunity for her to move from the Captain's seat to the District Chief's seat and she was the first woman qualified to be a District Chief in Calgary's 140-year history. A proud past recipient of FSWO's 3 E Award, she continues to work to educate, empower and encourage women in the fire service in Calgary and beyond.
Pre-requisites: None
Hazmat Alternative Fuel Vehicle Recognition
This course is intended for first responders on how to identify alternative fuel vehicle recognition and suppression tactics. Also, what type of decontamination is required after these vehicles were on fire.
Instructor: Greg Scott
Veteran-owned and operated, with over 25 years of dedicated service in the fire and emergency services industry. I bring firsthand operational experience in firefighting and hazardous materials response to every training session. My instruction is grounded in real-world response and tailored to support the ongoing growth of senior firefighters while building a solid foundation for new recruits.” My credentials include serving with the Canadian Forces Fire and CBRNE as a Fire and Hazmat Training Officer and serving as a Hazmat Instructor for Georgian College’s Pre-Service Firefighter Program. As a former member of the Simcoe County Hazmat/CBRN Team, I have an extensive hands-on experience managing complex hazardous materials and chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRNE) incidents.
Pre-requisites: None
Courageous Leadership: Championing Inclusivity in the Fire Service
Firefighters are known for courage—rushing into danger to help others. Yet, when it comes to conversations about identity, respect, and inclusion, discomfort often replaces bravery. Why? Because topics like sexual orientation, gender identity, and the challenges faced by LGBTQ2S+ members can feel unfamiliar or even intimidating to discuss.
This session isn’t about politics—it’s about strengthening your crew. Unspoken biases, like homophobia or transphobia, can quietly undermine teamwork, trust, and leadership. These challenges don’t just impact LGBTQ2S+ members—they affect the entire service. Whether it’s navigating locker rooms, handling preferred names or pronouns, or ensuring that every member feels respected at the kitchen table, these are real-world leadership challenges.
Join this interactive session to gain practical tools, language, and strategies that help create stronger, more cohesive teams. We’ll break down common myths, answer questions you may have been unsure how to ask, and give you the confidence to have these conversations—no matter your rank, role, or personal experience.
Instructor: jona olsson
jona olsson is the Director of cultural bridges to justice and Asst. Chief of Latir Volunteer FD in New Mexico, US. jona has presented for IAFC, IAFF, FBU, i-women, CAFC, FSWO, London and Edinburgh Fire brigades, Ottawa and Calgary Fire Departments, Australasian Fire and Emergency Authorities Council, Women and Firefighting Australasia (WAFA) plus many other agencies in the U. S., Canada, UK and Australasia. She was named 2012 Volunteer Chief of the Year by Fire Chief Magazine and IAFC. In 2015 she received FSWO’s first Ambassador Award. jona lives with her wife, Jane, and rescued 4-footed friends.
Pre-requisites: None
Dementia Awareness for Fire Services
Over 300,000 Ontarians are currently living with dementia, a number expected to rise to approximately 750,000 within the next 30 years. In this informative session, Alzheimer Society staff will offer valuable insights into various types of dementia, the 10 potential warning signs, common scenarios in which fire services may interact with individuals living with dementia, as well as effective communication strategies and local resources. We can also include common scenario discussions (if time allows). Attendees will also receive helpful resources, including communication tips for fire services, the First Responder Handbook, and other useful links.
Instructor: Andy Gibb
Andy Gibb is the Public Education Coordinator – Dementia Friendly Communities for Alzheimer Society of Brant, Haldimand Norfolk, Hamilton Halton.
Andy’s previous roles were in Scotland, where he is from, and included Senior residential care worker, community nurse and University lecturer in Health and Social Care. Andy has spent many years involved in the National Health Service working with individuals from all walks of life and all different backgrounds and partnering with various Fire, Police and Paramedic crews in his roles.
Having now moved to Canada, his goal within Alzheimer Society is to help make more Dementia Friendly Communities by working in partnership with businesses, councils, organizations, and services to enhance awareness, reduce stigma, and implement practical strategies to support those living with dementia.
Pre-requisites: None