The Training Officer

The Training Officer explores the critical role training officers play in today’s fire service. Hosted by Dave McGlynn, the podcast brings together experienced fire service leaders and practitioners to examine training, leadership, firefighter development, department needs, and the challenges facing those responsible for preparing their crews. Each episode takes a closer look at what it means to serve as a training officer and how effective training can shape firefighter performance, safety, and department readiness. The Training Officer is produced by Fire Engineering, which has been devoted to the training interests of firefighters since 1877. Get the latest fire service news, training insights, and updates from Fire Engineering: https://ow.ly/8PAe50ZTcmv

Episodes

  1. Oct 2

    FDIC 2027 Preview: New Firefighter Training, Live Fire, Technology, and EMS Programs

    What can firefighters, officers, instructors, and EMS professionals expect at FDIC 2027? In this episode of The Training Officer, Dave McGlynn talks with Fire Engineering Editor-in-Chief David Rhodes about what is new at FDIC 2027, including expanded hands-on training, live fire opportunities, new symposiums and programs, and changes designed to give attendees more practical training options. The 2027 lineup includes new courses covering engine company operations, moving water from static sources, mid-rise and high-rise tactics, shoring, aerial ladder operations, search and victim removal, fire dynamics, fire pump and sprinkler operations, and live fire instructor training. The episode also explores technology, AI and decision-making support, connected firegrounds, robotics, drones, wellness, performance culture, leadership, and volunteer officer training. Rhodes also discusses how FDIC selects instructors and courses, why popular classes continue to return, what instructors can do to build their experience and contribute to the fire service, and what attendees should know about HOT classes and live fire training. The episode closes with Mike Brown discussing the expanded JEMS and EMS programming at FDIC 2027, including four dedicated EMS classrooms, new EMS educator and critical care tracks, the EMS Innovation Summit, EMS HITS sessions, Sim Yard opportunities, and CAPCE accredited education. Registration for FDIC 2027 opens October 5 at noon ET. Topics include: • FDIC 2027 firefighter training • Live fire and hands on training • Engine, truck and search operations • Fire dynamics and fire behavior • Fire officer and leadership training • Fire service technology and AI • EMS education and CAPCE credit • JEMS programming at FDIC • How FDIC courses and instructors are selected • What firefighters should know before registering This podcast is sponsored by IFSTA: https://www.ifsta.org/shop?utm_source=FE&utm_medium=PodcastSponsor&utm_campaign=IFSTA_FE&utm_term=IFSTA_FE_PodcastSponsor&utm_content=IFSTA_FE_October2026

About

The Training Officer explores the critical role training officers play in today’s fire service. Hosted by Dave McGlynn, the podcast brings together experienced fire service leaders and practitioners to examine training, leadership, firefighter development, department needs, and the challenges facing those responsible for preparing their crews. Each episode takes a closer look at what it means to serve as a training officer and how effective training can shape firefighter performance, safety, and department readiness. The Training Officer is produced by Fire Engineering, which has been devoted to the training interests of firefighters since 1877. Get the latest fire service news, training insights, and updates from Fire Engineering: https://ow.ly/8PAe50ZTcmv

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