Lecture Location & Hotel Accommodations
5400 Holiday Drive, Frederick Maryland, 21703
Link To Book Rooms:
Schedule of Events
LECTURES
Schedule of Events
HANDS ON TRAINING (HOT)
Wednesday March 18th, 2026
0700-0800 - Breakfast/Coffee/Registration
0800-0845 - Opening Remarks
0845-1045 - Keynote Speaker (KEYNOTE ANNOUNCEMENT COMING SOON)
1100-1230 - Lecture Series 1
“What Are You Leaving Behind” - Rodzinka (Francis Scott Key Room A)
“Safety Is Scary”- Burchick (Francis Scott Key Room B)
“Side Charlie Engine Operations"-Chapman (Thomas Johnson Room)
"Tactical Considerations of Mid-Rise Residential Firefighting" - Hallock (R.B Taney Room)
1230-1330 - Lunch
1330-1500 - Lecture Series 2
“Inside & Out: A Mayday From Both Sides” - Coker & Beavers (Francis Scott Key Room A)
“Wye We Search: Redefining The Metric of Success On The Fireground” PART 1- Luse (Francis Scott Key Room B)
“1st In: Investigating Unknowns"-Schultz (Thomas Johnson Room)
"Preserving The Fire Service Through Photography" - Mitchell (R.B Taney Room)
1500-1515 - Break
1515-1645 - Lecture Series 3
“Aggressive Command Supports Aggressive Firefighting: The Top 5 COMMANDments For A Safe & Effective Fireground” - Martin (Francis Scott Key Room A)
“Wye We Search: Redefining The Metric of Success On The Fireground” PART 2- Luse (Francis Scott Key Room B)
“Handling Fire Alarm & Sprinkler Activations"-Wolfschmidt (Thomas Johnson Room)
"The Rescue Business" - Benjamin (R.B Taney Room)
Thursday March 19th, 2026
0700-0800 - Breakfast/Coffee/Registration
0800-0845 - Opening Remarks
0845-1045 - Keynote Speaker (KEYNOTE ANNOUNCEMENT COMING SOON)
1100-1230 - Lecture Series 1
“Aggressively Happy” - Wilson (Francis Scott Key Room A)
“The Hat Dance: Realities of the Short-Staffed Company Officer's”- Aloan (Francis Scott Key Room B)
“Inspiration Isn't Enough"-Dorival (Thomas Johnson Room)
"Evolved Search: Lessons From Doing More W/ Less" - Pippen (R.B Taney Room)
1230-1330 - Lunch
1330-1500 - Lecture Series 2
“Overwhelmed to Overcoming- Managing 1st Alarm Overload” - Nelms (Francis Scott Key Room A)
“Fireground Strategies: When Buildings Change The Rules of The Game” PART 1- Avillo (Francis Scott Key Room B)
“When One Size Fits All Fails: Truck Operator Training For Real Life"-Wilbur (Thomas Johnson Room)
"Purpose Driven- Mission Minded" - Stinnett (R.B Taney Room)
1500-1515 - Break
1515-1645 - Lecture Series 3
“Are You Ready To Search?” - Plutto (Francis Scott Key Room A)
“Fireground Strategies: When Buildings Change The Rules of The Game” PART 2- Avillo (Francis Scott Key Room B)
“Right-Sizing Your Water Supply"-Langer (Thomas Johnson Room)
"Fostering A Firehouse Training Culture" - McClusky (R.B Taney Room)
Friday March 20th 2026 (Hands On Training)
0700-1745 {Arrival Time, Check-In, Waivers}
0800-1800 HOT Training
Locations: (Please be sure to check where your HOT class is being conducted in the class description. Not all classes are in the same location(s)
Frederick Public Safety Training Facility (5370 Public Safety Place. Frederick MD. 21704)
Hagerstown Fire Dept. Training Center (940 Bowman Ave. Hagerstown MD. 21740)
Frederick County Fire/Rescue Sta. 29-Northgate (37 Thomas Johnson Drive, Frederick MD. 21702)
"All Things Engine: From The Stretch to the Search"-2 Days (LIVE FIRE Day #2)
(Friday/Saturday)
Lead Instructor: Matt Stansbury (FCFR) & Cadre

Class Description: This class is designed to enhance the students knowledge skills and abilities in the primary skill of the Engine Company, The Stretch. We will cover skills in everything from bread and butter stretches to long line deployment to functions of the backup firefighter in an effort to strengthen effective engine company operations. This class will culminate with live fire evolutions to showcase the covered topics. (Note: This class is a physically and mentally demanding class, which requires 100% health)
Full PPE & SCBA w/ Spare Cylinder Required
**Note: All students burning must have long sleeve T-shirt & pants**
Class Size: 20
Location: Frederick County Public Safety Training Facility Burn Building (5370 Public Safety Pl. Frederick MD. 21704)
"The Art Of Truck Company Operations"- 2 Days (LIVE FIRE Day #2)
(Friday/Saturday)
Lead Instructor: Trevor Meador (FCFR) & FCFR & Capitol Fire Training Cadre

Class Description: The days of just showing up and throwing ladders to random places on the fireground, having the forks being driven in backwards, missing victims on a search have faded away. There’s so much more to it. IT'S AN ART! This Truck Company hands on training digs deep into the truck company pocket, and is designed to harp on basic and advanced truck company functions. During this program students will:
-Forcible Entry Challenges
-Search & Victim Removal
- VES Tactics
- Portable Ladders (Selection & Throwing Process)
- Vertical Ventilation Tactics
This truck company operations H.O.T class covers all the aspects of a modern truck company performance on the fireground. Class size is limited to the first 25 people to register.
Full PPE & SCBA w/ Spare Cylinder Required
Note: All students burning must have long sleeve t-shirt & pants**
Class Size: 25
Location: Frederick County Public Safety Training Facility Burn Building (5370 Public Safety Pl. Frederick MD. 21704)
"Hasty Intervention Tactics"-2 Days (LIVE FIRE Day #2)
(Friday/Saturday)
Lead Instructor: Hank Henline (FCFR/ Hasty Fire Products) & Cadre

Class Description: This intense and dynamic hands-on Rapid Intervention training will sharpen your ability to locate, assess, and rescue downed firefighters in the most challenging environments. This course focuses on Modern RIT techniques and utilizes the game-changing Hasty Rescue Strap, a versatile tool designed to streamline firefighter removals. High-stress and challenging scenarios will push you to think on your feet and adapt to the unpredictable nature of firefighter emergencies. The scenarios are designed to enhance your confidence and competence, whether you’re a seasoned firefighter or fresh on the job. You’ll execute swift and efficient rescues from windows, through the floor, below grade, and collapses, while fostering teamwork and sharpening your decision-making under pressure.
Full PPE & SCBA w/ Spare Cylinder Required
Class Size: 25
Location: Hagerstown Fire Dept. Training Center (940 Bowman Ave. Hagerstown MD. 21740)
"Advanced Vehicle Extrication Scenarios"-(2 Days)
(Friday/Saturday)
Lead Instructor: Jason Rivera (New Haven FD/Tactical Resource Fire Training LLC) & Cadre

Class Description: This 16-hour class begins with a short tool lab, to assure all students are familiar with the equipment being used for the class. There will then be a few demonstrations of some modern extrication techniques that the students may choose to implement into the scenarios throughout the day. The students will then be broken into realistic size groups, and have to perform extrications at some real-world, difficult scenarios. The instructors will act more as safety officers than teachers, but are always willing to make suggestions, answer questions or provide some oversight into best practices.
Each rotation should take approximately 1.5 hours to complete. This will allow for each group to complete four evolutions during the day.
This will not be a simple door pop or roof removal class. The scenarios will be difficult and complex. Students should have a background in vehicle extrication as they will be coming up with the gameplan and implementing it with minimal instructor input.
PPE: Firefighter turnout Gear or Tech Rescue PPE
Class Size: 21
Location: Frederick County Public Safety Training Facility Burn Building (5370 Public Safety Pl. Frederick MD. 21704)- Extrication Pad
"Advanced Rope Rescue: Practical Strategy & Application" (2 Days)
(Friday/Saturday)
Lead Instructor: Rachel Calderon (FCFR) & Frederick County Special Operations Team Members

Class Description: The field of Rope Rescue is constantly evolving, with new techniques, tools, and strategies shaping how we respond to real-world challenges. In an age where both traditional practices and modern innovations influence our work, it’s essential to stay sharp, adaptable, and ready for anything. This intensive, fast-paced two-day course is designed to expand your skillset with advanced rope rescue applications. Students will gain hands-on experience in:
• Advanced anchoring methods for complex environments
• Artificial High Directionals (AHDs) and their operational applications
• Vertical rescue systems, including litter scoops, offsets, and lower-tension highline systems Working in small, focused teams, you will simulate real rescue scenarios—developing the technical skills, problem-solving mindset, and team coordination necessary for high-stakes operations. In rope rescue, the unexpected is the norm. This course prepares you for worst-case scenarios, ensuring you’re not only confident but also competent in high-demand environments. Whether you’re seeking to refine your expertise or expand beyond foundational skills, this class challenges you to push your capabilities further.
Requirements • Current Rope Rescue Technician certification or completion of comparable advanced rope training • Class III harness and rope rescue helmet (loaner equipment may be available with prior notice)
Class Size: 15
Class Location: Frederick County Fire/Rescue Station 29 “Northgate” (37 Thomas Johnson Drive, Frederick MD. 21702)
"The DAGUM Push"
(Friday Only)
Lead Instructor: Kevin Pfluger (Mercedes Hose) & Cadre
Class Description: The objective of this course is to help FF’s realize the impact of an open flowing hose line. Open bale equates to controlling the fire environment which is better for the victim and all fire personnel. The instructors bring an intensity to the class and freedom from fear of failure. Topics covered are stretching, stationary flowing, flowing and moving, and victim drags. First this class will go in depth with hose line deployments. It will focus on realistic fireground deployments from crosslays. Next, we will go over multiple stationary flowing positions to give the nozzleman confident techniques to flow water for an extended amount of time. Flow and move is the next portion of the class. We will teach to flow around corners and upstairs (if available). We will also cover drags and what the nozzle team needs to do if they come across a victim on their way to the fire. We will focus on a crawl, walk, run style of teaching. This class is physically demanding and will focus on techniques that will make you a better firefighter. You will be able to serve your citizens at a higher degree of efficiency at your fireground in your first due upon completion of this class.
PPE: Full PPE & SCBA
Class Size: 20
Class Location: Frederick County Public Safety Training Facility (5370 Public Safety Pl, Frederick MD. 21704)- Pond Parking Lot
"The Modern Fireground: Standpipe Operations "
(Friday Only)
Lead Instructor: Jon Kasouf (FDNY)

Class Description: This hands-on course provides firefighters with essential knowledge and practical skills at operations in buildings with Standpipe Systems. In the modern era of firefighting, buildings equipped with standpipes are becoming more common everywhere. This course is designed for every position on the fire ground from nozzle to chauffeur. You will be introduced to the challenges of standpipe operations. You will learn the fundamentals of standpipe connections, and hose loads, deployment and advancement. You will also develop the ability to troubleshoot common issues, and optimize water supply and pressure management under fire conditions.
PPE: Full PPE & SCBA
Class Size: 20
Class Location: Frederick County Public Safety Training Facility (5370 Public Safety Pl, Frederick MD. 21704)- Tower
"Stretch It Right, Win the fight: urban to suburban "
(Friday Only)
Lead Instructor: Chris Martin (State College FD)

Class Description: From Urban to Suburban is a class that will prepare the engine company member for success in a variety of street level scenarios. The art of the stretch is just that, an art. In this program, the students will dive head first into what makes an effective engine company member and what the components of a "good stretch" are. Participants are challenged in understanding how to select the most appropriate line or device for fire attack based on line diameter, length, flow, and fire size/location. Participants will estimate a variety of stretches to simulate realistic street like conditions in single family homes all the way to a 3 - 5 story non stand-piped mid-rise. Once the correct line is selected, participants will perform a variety of street proven hose line management techniques as close to the seat of the fire as safety allows. Participants will put all the skills together to make difficult stretches based on the scenario they are dealt with a short staffed crew. If you are looking to take your engine company skills to the next level, this program is for you.
PPE: Full PPE & SCBA
Class Size: 20
Class Location: Hagerstown Fire Dept. Training Center (940 Bowman Ave. Hagerstown MD. 21740)
Saturday March 21st 2026 (Hands On Training)
0700-1745 {Arrival Time, Check-In, Waivers}
0800-1800 HOT Training
Locations: (Please be sure to check where your HOT class is being conducted in the class description. Not all classes are in the same location(s)
Frederick Public Safety Training Facility (5370 Public Safety Place. Frederick MD. 21704)
Hagerstown Fire Dept. Training Center (940 Bowman Ave. Hagerstown MD. 21740)
Frederick County Fire/Rescue Sta. 29-Northgate (37 Thomas Johnson Drive, Frederick MD. 21702)
"Forcible Entry: Mastering The Basics"
(Saturday Only)
Lead Instructor: Eric Budd (DCFD) & Nate Gangler (Side Charlie Halligans) 
Class Description: This class is designed to help the students get repetitions on the basic principles, concepts and skills required to successfully force entry in the residential or commercial setting. We will discuss mechanical advantage, progression of leverage, force multipliers, conventional and non-conventional methods for gaining entry. Skill stations include inward and outward swinging doors, roll up doors, chains and padlocks. This class is designed to help the beginner develop their skill set while pushing seasoned firefighters to master the basics!
Full PPE & SCBA Required
Class Size: 25
Class Location: Frederick County Public Safety Training Facility (5370 Public Safety Pl, Frederick MD. 21704)- Tower & Parking Lot
"Reading the building: building FACTS & size-up-Taking it to the streets reading buildings- frederick maryland"
(Saturday Only)
Lead Instructor: Christopher Naum

Class Description: Reading the Building: FACTS and Size-up-on the Streets-Frederick, Maryland Presenting the signature Reading the Buildings program taking the classroom to the streets with insights on building construction for today’s fire service, this unique program consists of a walking tour on select Streets in the downtown area of Frederick, Maryland, Reading Buildings and Developing Size-up skills looking at a variety of building types, occupancies & risks and vintage and era of structures, discussing operations, risks and building hazards with curb-side conversation. The program starts with a morning classroom lecture presentation incorporating the Buildingsonfire FACTS concept for First-Arriving Construction, Tactics and Safety looking at integrate tactical risks and key considerations for the First-Due Company, Company Officer and Commanders, followed by a facilitated walking tour on the Streets of Frederick, MD., looking at building types, occupancies, risks and eras of structures, discussing operations, tactics, risks and building hazards with curb-side conversation.
Class Size: 30
Class Location: Frederick County Public Safety Training Facility (5370 Public Safety Pl, Frederick MD. 21704)- Downtown Frederick
"Managing The Mayday"
(Saturday Only)
Lead Instructor: Will Ball (FCFR)

Class Description: This course is designed for incident commanders who must take decisive and sustained actions beyond the initial moments of a firefighter mayday. While the first three minutes are critical for immediate survival actions, the period that follows demands strategic command leadership, coordination, and resource deployment to support rescue operations, maintain overall incident control, and ensure firefighter safety. Through scenario-based training, case studies, and command simulations, students will develop the skills necessary to manage extended mayday incidents, integrate rapid intervention efforts, manage radio traffic, and make real-time decisions under pressure. This course emphasizes incident stabilization, accountability, and transitioning from chaos to structured operations.
Class Size: 15
Class Location: Frederick County Public Safety Training Facility (5370 Public Safety Pl, Frederick MD. 21704)- Headquarters Classroom (TBD)
