Honored to have been able to deliver the opening keynote address for the Texas State Firefighters’ and Fire Marshals’ Association at their 150th Annual Training Conference & Convention in Waco this morning.
I love this organization!!
Thank you Kim Hilsenbeck for the opportunity!!
A year from now, you’ll be proud you took the first step toward becoming a Trooper. Apply by June 1, 2026 to be considered for Cadet Class 155, beginning in February 2027. Your future self will thank you. #FutureStartsNow#IllinoisStatePolice#IllinoisJobs
Known for his leadership, dedication to training, and contributions to the fire service, Chief Ray Downey left a lasting legacy. To honor his impact, FDIC has established the Ray Downey Scholarship to support the growth and development of today’s fire and rescue professionals.
Two recipients will receive a full FDIC International 2027 conference experience, including:
✅ 20 hours of Hands-on Training (H.O.T.) and Workshops
✅️ Full access to the conference program
✅️ Entry to the exhibit hall
✅️ 6 nights of hotel accommodations
✅️ Roundtrip airfare
More than a scholarship, it’s an opportunity to grow, connect, and carry forward Chief Downey’s commitment to excellence.
📅Applications close September 11, 2026
Learn more and submit an application here: https://t.co/766S39j979
In the month of July, the Stockton Fire Department will be taking applications for EMT and Paramedic Firefighter Trainees. Our 16-week academy and 18-month probationary terms are physically and mentally demanding, and the work continues after that too. (1/3)
Excited to hear both of these awesome keynote speakers at the SFFMA annual training conference! Join us June 11-14 in Waco. Conference website has all the info: https://t.co/5TRbVTV7RU #sffma#sffma150#sffmaconference#texasfireservice
2) On having enough help, I remember hearing someone say once, "I rather be lookin' at ya than lookin' for ya". From Fire Engineering's The Command Post, "What Does a Season Change Mean for the Fire Service", posted on 5-21-26. @chieflasky@chiefsalka@fireengineering
“When we see one drone in the area, let alone three or more, it takes a portion of time to verify that that airspace is clear and it’s safe for our aircraft to start flying again." Crews battle #fires in #California that have injured at least four...
https://t.co/7y0VfGIJ1c
FIRE & COLLAPSE. Excellent video on why collapse zones are ordered at these types of buildings and why they must be respected. This is a 5th alarm this evening in Milwaukee, WI. #notourvid#firefighters#firefighter
Catch our latest Fire Engineering Podcast “The Command Post” TONIGHT at 7:30 Eastern. Our topic: “A Change in Seasons.” What changes or adjustments do you make to your emergency operations when moving from season to season? @chieflasky@chiefsalka@fireengineering
https://t.co/nz5gwRSsQW #thecommandpost
Join us for our Fire Engineering Podcast “The Command Post” tomorrow night at 7:30 Eastern. Our topic: “A Change in Seasons.” What changes or adjustments do you make to your emergency operations when moving from season to season? @chieflasky@chiefsalka@fireengineering
https://t.co/nz5gwRSsQW #thecommandpost
#FETalk at the top of the hour: @chieflasky and company on the good, the bad, and the ugly of the engine company officer...
Join us for the discussion...
https://t.co/WKUyVXyzWP
Humpday Hangout LIVE today. Our topic: “The Engine Company Officer: The Good, The Bad, The Ugly.” We’ll be hanging out with our regular cast; Rick Lasky, John Salka, Scott Thompson and Curtis Birt. @fireengineering https://t.co/yFWbvKUur5 #FETALK#HumpdayHangout#theenginecompany