FSWO 2024 Annual Training Symposium - Building Leaders, Driving Change

This year's symposium will be held in Hamilton, Ontario November 7-9, 2024.

Every year FSWO holds a Training Symposium in a different city. Not only do we offer many different in-class sessions and HOT practical training sessions, there are many opportunities to meet and connect with others from all over Canada and the United States. We welcome all members of all genders of the fire service from all divisions including suppression, fire prevention, communications, training, and fire program students.

Please see session details below. Registration is available at the OAFC website.

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Thursday, November 7, 2024

07

Nov

8:00am - 5:00pm

High Angle Rope Rescue

Facilitated by Mark Musclow

This 8-Hour High Angle Rope Rescue Operations training prepares

responders to execute rescues in challenging environments like cliffs,

buildings, or steep terrain.
07

Nov

8:00am - 12:00pm

Fireground Fitness Through Flowing

Facilitated by Nicole Brugger

You will gain confidence and core strength through flowing water out of 45mm and 65mm nozzles and acting as a back- up person.
07

Nov

3:00pm - 5:00pm

The Pub-ed Shed 2.0 Welcome to AI

Facilitated by Laura King

This interactive session will challenge participants to use NFPA messaging and AI tools.
07

Nov

3:00pm - 5:00pm

Understanding Electrical Safety in Everyday Devices

Facilitated by Randy Narine

This course delves into the intricate workings of various electric

devices, ranging from cellphones and tablets to E-Scooters and cars.
07

Nov

3:00pm - 5:00pm

Leading Beyond and Outside the Rank

Facilitated by Moderated by Susan Jones

This session brings together a group of dynamic women leaders whose

personal journeys have ventured outside the traditional rank and file

hierarchy to achieve tremendous success in making a difference in

helping to diversify and improve Canada’s fire service.
07

Nov

1:00pm - 3:00pm

When I Doubt Myself & Other Women – confronting internalized sexism - Part One

Facilitated by Jona Olsson

This session will encourage women to examine the harmful impact of a

lifetime of sexist messages that can cause competent women to doubt

their own judgment, competence and leadership capacity as well as

that of other women.
07

Nov

1:00pm - 3:00pm

Writing For Resiliency

Facilitated by Amber Bowman

Writing for resiliency to be prepared for what is to come on the job and

in life. Sharing Tools and techniques to assist members while using

mindfulness practices.
07

Nov

1:00pm - 3:00pm

Introduction to Fire Investigations by Origin and Cause

Facilitated by Andrea Gaynor and Michelle Bradley of Origin and Cause, Fire and Explosive Investigators

This session will review NFPA 1033 standards and 921 guidelines, which

explore the 7 steps of the scientific method and how they apply to fire

investigations, scene preservation, fire patterns, heat transfer,

interviewing, and evidence handling.
07

Nov

10:00am - 12:00pm

Optimizing Hormones for Peak Performance

Facilitated by Sonia Issa

This empowering workshop, led by Sonia Issa

(@radiantheartspace on Instagram), dives deep into the world of

female hormones and their impact on firefighters.
07

Nov

10:00am - 12:00pm

Crisis or Opportunity? Workshop

Facilitated by Colleen Kamps

This workshop will focus on practical skills and strategies that can

help build your capacity to function to your best ability, regardless of

what is going on around you.
07

Nov

10:00am - 12:00pm

Breaking Barriers in the Fire Service - Chief’s Leadership Panel

This session will offer an engaging and informative discussion about

these pioneering women who forged their paths without the guidance of

female mentors.
07

Nov

8:00am - 10:00am

Note-Taking

Facilitated by Karen Simpson

Attend this session to learn some best practices for making notes in case your notes end up being part of a civil case or a criminal case.
07

Nov

8:00am - 10:00am

Advanced Vehicle Technologies and Response Tactics

Facilitated by Charlene Poranganel and Mitch Petterson, General Motors

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.
07

Nov

8:00am - 10:00am

Lithium ion: Case studies and conversation

Facilitated by Laura King

We’ll examine lithium-ion case studies (what would your department do?),

explore products, dissect messaging and develop next steps to help your

department reach target audiences and learn how to safely use today’s

consumer products.
07

Nov

8:00am - 5:00pm

Resilient Minds: Building the Psychological Strength of Fire Fighters

Facilitated by Canadian Mental Health Association

Resilient Minds^TMis an evidence-informed, peer-to-peer,

skill-building program designed by and for career and volunteer

firefighters across Canada to develop strategies to mitigate and better

manage occupational stress and enhance personal resilience, resulting in

informed and healthier teams.
07

Nov

6:00pm - 10:00pm

Common Passenger Auto Ex at Night

Facilitated by Linz Swick, Hamilton Fire Department Training Division

A four-hour basic auto extrication at night will allow participants to

operate, which requires skilled responders and specialized tools.
07

Nov

6:00pm - 10:00pm

Drone Application in the Modern Fire World

Facilitated by Hamilton Fire Department Training Division

This course immerses participants in the multifaceted role of drones in

modern firefighting, integrating advanced technologies like gas

detectors.
07

Nov

1:00pm - 5:00pm

Advanced Auto Extrication

Facilitated by Dee Kirwin

In this four-hour advanced auto extrication training session,

participants focus on extracting occupants from vehicles not resting on

their wheels, presenting unique challenges.
07

Nov

6:00pm - 10:00pm

Live Fire at Night: Vent, Entry, Isolate, Search

This 4 hour Vertical Vent Enter Isolate Search (VEIS) course is a

critical firefighting tactic used to swiftly rescue trapped occupants in

a structure fire by entering through a window, isolating the room from

the fire, and conducting a search.
07

Nov

1:00pm - 5:00pm

Live Fire: Vent, Entry, Isolate Search

Facilitated by Hamilton Fire Department Training Division

This 4 hour Vertical Vent Enter Isolate Search (VEIS) course is a

critical firefighting tactic used to swiftly rescue trapped occupants in

a structure fire by entering through a window, isolating the room from

the fire, and conducting a search.
07

Nov

1:00pm - 5:00pm

Rescue Drag Bonanza

Facilitated by Jess Clermont

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.
07

Nov

8:00am - 10:00am

OFAI Prep Class

Facilitated by Amber Bowman

OFAI testing prep for Treadmill and FPAT. Tips and tricks on what the

test is requiring and proper techniques to perfect the movement patterns

to pass the test on your first attempt.
07

Nov

8:00am - 12:00pm

Machine Rescue

Facilitated by Hamilton Fire Department Training Division

The 4-hour course on the technical operations of machine rescue provides

participants with specialized training on safely extracting individuals

trapped in machinery-related incidents.

Friday, November 8, 2024

08

Nov

11:00am - 11:45am

Keynote Address: The LGBT Purge; Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow

Facilitated by Michelle Douglas

Michelle will deliver a keynote speech addressing the historical injustices of the LGBT Purge and the work done to pursue reconciliation and justice.
08

Nov

2:15pm - 3:15pm

Trauma: The Power of Not Being Broken

Facilitated by Colleen Kamps

Join us for an inspiring presentation on the transformative journey of trauma. Colleen has worked in trauma recovery and resilience for several

years and will share powerful insights into the human capacity for healing and growth. Colleen will challenge the notion of being "broken"

by trauma, highlighting stories of resilience and renewal. Attendees will discover practical strategies for embracing their strength,

fostering a positive mindset, and finding hope and purpose after

traumatic experiences.
08

Nov

1:00pm - 2:00pm

What does the research tell us about the mental health and musculoskeletal health of women firefighters?

Facilitated by Joy MacDermid

This talk will review the published FIREWELL research and other related

research on the musculoskeletal health and mental health of women

firefighters. It will explore gender differences in musculoskeletal

health and mental health among firefighters, and the factors that might

explain these differences.
08

Nov

3:30pm - 5:00pm

Restorative Yoga for First Responders

Facilitated by Kate Jamieson

We will focus on restorative and strengthening exercises that cater to the demands of this rigorous profession.
09

Nov

10:00am - 12:00pm

Mastering Social Media: A Guide for Canadian Women in the Fire Service

Facilitated by Kathy Hendrick and Kristy-Lynn Pankhurst

This highly interactive presentation is designed to empower female

firefighters with the knowledge and skills necessary for effective and

ethical use of social media.
08

Nov

1:00pm - 5:00pm

Search and Rescue in Multiple Environments

Facilitated by Hamilton Fire Department Training Division

This 4-hour class will focus on completing effective search and rescue techniques and preparing patients for removal from a hazardous environment. With diminished visibility, you will complete scenarios in a variety of settings, including mock single-family residential and high-rise dwellings and also a small area maze.
08

Nov

3:30pm - 5:00pm

Firefighting is More Than a Spectator Sport: Navigating and Advocating for a Safe and Inclusive Fire Service

Facilitated by Various (see below)

Join our leading panel of experts who will share their research,

insight, expertise and experiences in learning how to successfully

navigate and advocate for a safe, diverse and inclusive work space that

eliminates inequity and harassment in the fire service.
08

Nov

1:00pm - 5:00pm

Rescue Drag Bonanza

Facilitated by Hamilton Fire Department Training Division

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.
08

Nov

1:00pm - 5:00pm

Firefighter Survival

Facilitated by Grant Buttenham, Hamilton Fire Department Training Division

In this four-hour firefighter survival course, participants undergo

intensive training in advanced techniques to self-rescue from

life-threatening situations.
08

Nov

1:00pm - 5:00pm

Machine Rescue

Facilitated by Hamilton Fire Department Training Division

The 4-hour course on the technical operations of machine rescue provides

participants with specialized training on safely extracting individuals

trapped in machinery-related incidents.
08

Nov

3:30pm - 5:00pm

Dare to Lead: A Leadership Development Workshop for Women in Fire

Facilitated by Kathrine Lamb

On the theme of Building Leaders and Driving Change, Fire Service Women Ontario (FSWO) is proud to present Dare to Lead, a leadership development workshop led by Katherine Lamb of Effective Command. This empowering session will explore the unique challenges faced by women in the fire service, including imposter syndrome, developing coping strategies, and building resilience.

Whether you’re just starting your Fire Officer journey or looking to enhance your skills for future promotions, this workshop will provide valuable insights into how you can invest in your future success within the fire service.

Saturday, November 9, 2024

09

Nov

8:00am - 5:00pm

Changing Careers: Introduction to Firefighting

Facilitated by Trista Boles and Alex Moore

Changing Careers introduces women to careers in firefighting career.

This program is suitable for absolute beginners. This full day program

will give participants an idea of the mental and physical demands of the

job.
09

Nov

1:00pm - 5:00pm

Effective Command

Facilitated by Katherine Lamb

This session will focus on developing rational decision makers who can

appropriately manage incident risk, implement appropriate strategies and

tactics, and importantly can justify the why behind their decisions.
09

Nov

1:00pm - 5:00pm

Bus Extrication vs Common Passenger

Facilitated by Hamilton Fire Department Training Division

Join us for an intensive 4-hour hands-on training course focused on bus auto extrication techniques utilizing heavy auto extrication tools, struts, and other specialized hand tools not commonly used in everyday scenarios.
09

Nov

8:00am - 12:00pm

Effective Command

Facilitated by Katherine Lamb

This session will focus on developing rational decision makers who can

appropriately manage incident risk, implement appropriate strategies and

tactics, and importantly can justify the why behind their decisions.
09

Nov

8:00am - 12:00pm

Machine Rescue

Facilitated by Hamilton Fire Department Training Division

The 4-hour course on the technical operations of machine rescue provides

participants with specialized training on safely extracting individuals

trapped in machinery-related incidents.
09

Nov

8:00am - 12:00pm

Firefighter Survival

Facilitated by Grant Buttenham, Hamilton Fire Department

In this four-hour firefighter survival course, participants undergo

intensive training in advanced techniques to self-rescue from

life-threatening situations.
09

Nov

8:00am - 5:00pm

Performance Training Foundations for Tactical Athletes

Facilitated by Anthony De Benedictis and Tyler Price

Performance Training Foundations for Tactical Athletes is aimed at

firefighters keen on enhancing their capabilities on the fireground and

in life.
09

Nov

1:00pm - 5:00pm

Fire Investigations 101

Facilitated by Brian Dickson, Hamilton Fire Department

This course equips participants with essential skills and expert tips

for conducting thorough post-analysis and documentation of fire

incidents.
09

Nov

8:00am - 12:00pm

Bus Extrication

Facilitated by Hamilton Fire Department Training Division
TBA
09

Nov

3:00pm - 5:00pm

Effective 2-Way Communications Between the Dispatcher and Command

Facilitated by Kelly Corneal

In this session you will gain skills and practical training resources to enhance the use of fire ground communications.
09

Nov

3:00pm - 5:00pm

Ready, Set, Meditate: Exploring Different Levels and Kickstarting Your Practice

Facilitated by Charlene Poranganel

Discover the benefits of meditation for your physical, mental, and

emotional well-being, and learn how to incorporate meditation into your

daily routine for greater peace and clarity.
09

Nov

1:00pm - 3:00pm

When I Doubt Myself & other women – confronting internalized sexism Part Two - Healing Deeper

Facilitated by jona olsson

We’ll explore strategies to interrupt our patterns of self doubt and how

we hold ourselves and each other back. We will share healing support,

and uncover tactics to propel us to our fiercest, boldest and most

confident selves.
09

Nov

10:00am - 12:00pm

Conscious Communication & Relationship Mastery

Facilitated by Charlene Poranganel

Participants will explore ways to intentionally manage mindsets, master

behaviors and be present in every moment of life experiences.
09

Nov

1:00pm - 3:00pm

Unlock your Firefighting Career: Interviews, Mike Wood

Facilitated by Mike Wood

This session is designed to help you prepare for one of the most important interviews of your life – your firefighter interview.
09

Nov

8:00am - 10:00am

Unlock Your Firefighting Career: Resumes

Facilitated by Mike Wood

Discover the secrets to a successful application, and craft a compelling resume.
09

Nov

8:00am - 10:00am

Optimizing Hormones for Peak Performance

Facilitated by Sonia Issa

This empowering workshop, led by Sonia Issa

(@radiantheartspace on Instagram), dives deep into the world of

female hormones and their impact on firefighters.
09

Nov

3:00pm - 5:00pm

Strategies To Improve Your Nutrition

Facilitated by Jaclyn Halko

This course will provide information on key nutritional strategies for someone looking to improve health through nutrition.

After finishing this course you will be able to transform your kitchen & pantry for success, choose better snacks, learn how to consume more protein throughout the day, and address emotional eating & build new habits. There will also be recipes, handouts and more!
09

Nov

1:00pm - 3:00pm

Building Leaders and Driving Change in the Fire Service

Facilitated by Kristy-Lynn Pankhurst, Sarah Peto, Debra Rogers & Lydia Wilcox

This session will feature a dynamic discussion led by leaders from across Canada: FSWO, FSW Central Provinces, and FSW British Columbia. Key themes: the importance of mentorship, fostering inclusivity, and addressing the cultural and systemic barriers that women face in leadership roles. The session will also explore how collaboration, mentorship, and male allyship can help foster diversity and inclusivity within the fire service.