- Saturday May 24, 2025
- Sunday May 25, 2025
- Monday May 26, 2025
- Tuesday May 27, 2025
- Wednesday May 28, 2025
| Time | |||
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| 9:30 am |
Golf Shuttle Departs
Alt Hotel Calgary, Fairfield Inn & Suites Calgary Downtown AND Hotel Arts for The Track Golf Course.
Alt Hotel Calgary, Fairfield Inn & Suites and Hotel Arts
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| 10:00 am |
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| 11:30 am |
Join us for the AFCA Golf Tournament, a fun and relaxing way to kick off the conference while networking with colleagues and industry partners. This friendly tournament is open to all skill levels and offers a chance to enjoy Alberta’s beautiful scenery while fostering connections within the fire service community. Whether you’re aiming for the […]
The Track Golf Course
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| 5:00 pm |
Golf Tournament BBQ
Wrap up a fantastic day on the course with the Post-Golf Tournament BBQ at the clubhouse! Enjoy great food, good company, and the excitement of the golf prize awards. It’s the perfect way to relax, celebrate, and connect with fellow participants after the tournament.
The Track Golf Course
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| 7:00 pm |
The shuttle will return delegates to Hotel Arts, Fairfield Inn & Suites Calgary Downtown Hotel and Alt Hotel Calgary.
The Track Golf Course
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| Time | Concurrent Stream #1 | Concurrent Stream #2 | |||||
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| 7:45 am |
Departing at 7:45 from Alt Hotel, 7:55 Fairfield Hotel & Suites Calgary and from Hotel Arts at 7:58. Please reference the shuttle schedules in the conference app. Thank you to our sponsor.
Alt Hotel Calgary, Fairfield Inn & Suites and Hotel Arts
Presented by:  |
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| 8:00 am |
Registration
Check in at registration, obtain your event badge, and be sure to download the conference app.
Foyer, Palomino A-D
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| 8:45 am |
Delegate Coffee Break
Foyer, Palomino A-D
Presented by:  |
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| 9:00 am |
AFCA Trade Show Refreshment Stand
AFCA Trades, coffee will be available in Halls D and E during load in and set-up. Thank you to our sponsor.
Halls D-E
Presented by:  |
Thomas Cook -
Vice President of Professional Services, Wildfire Defence Systems
Scott Eskwitt - Director of Corporate Communications & Government Affairs, Wildfire Defense Systems 2024 Insurance Resource Response Overview, What Chiefs and ICs can expect for 2025, and Answers to FAQs This keynote provides a summary of the Wildfire Defense Systems, Inc., (WDS) 2024 Wildfire Loss Intervention response in Alberta and what Chiefs, IMTs, and AHJs can expect for 2025, including the status of our Canadian based response delivered […]
Palomino A-D
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Trades can commence loading into Halls D and E from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. AFCA trades requiring to unload material via a loading dock will book their scheduled time through BMO Voyage Control. The booking system is mandatory for all trades requiring loading dock access. Apparatus parking begins at 8:00 a.m. Fire apparatus […]
Halls D-E
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| 10:15 am |
Jonathan Reimer -
Fire & Emergency Manager, Capital Regional District, British Columbia
Firefighters face high stakes decisions and uncertain, time-constrained circumstances. How can we improve real world decisions under challenging conditions? This workshop introduces the emerging science of judgement under uncertainty, how it can support fire decision-makers, and improve operational outcomes. We’ll explore how the military, medical professionals, and business leaders apply behavioural science tools to make high consequence decisions, […]
Palomino A-D
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Leanna Three Suns -
Facilitator and Educational Programmer
The Kairos Blanket Exercise is a Cross Cultural Teaching tool to raise awareness of the nation to nation relationship between Indigenous and non-indigenous peoples in Canada, and to teach a history of Canada that most people do not learn. It aims to bridge the gap between European historical narratives and Indigenous ways of knowing, fostering […]
Meeting Rooms 113M-115M
Presented by:   |
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| 11:15 am |
John Liadis -
Fire Chief, Alternate Rural Director at Large, Alberta Fire Chiefs Association, Clearwater County
David Mohl - Fire Chief, Rural Director at Large, Alberta Fire Chiefs Association Engage in meaningful discussions at the Rural Membership Round Table Session, where fire chiefs and leaders from rural communities come together to share experiences, challenges, and solutions unique to rural fire services. This interactive session fosters collaboration and provides a platform to exchange ideas, address pressing issues, and explore opportunities for growth and support within […]
Palomino G-H
Presented by:  |
Mike Pirie -
Chief, Alternate Director at Large, Alberta Fire Chiefs Association
Trevor Brice - Fire Chief, AFCA Secretary Treasurer, Urban Director at Large,, Alberta Fire Chiefs Association Join the Urban Membership Round Table Session to connect with fire service leaders from Alberta’s urban centers. This collaborative forum provides an opportunity to discuss challenges, share strategies, and explore innovative solutions tailored to the complexities of urban fire services. Engage in open dialogue, build valuable connections, and contribute to shaping the future of fire […]
Palomino A-D
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| 4:30 pm |
Join the AFCA along with Government representatives for the Opening Ceremonies and Memorial Service.
Palomino A-D
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| 6:00 pm |
Join your fellow members and trades for the welcome reception.
Halls D-E
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| Time | |||||
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| 7:15 am |
Departing from Alt Hotel Calgary at 7:15, Fairfield Inn & Suites Calgary Downtown at 7:21 AND Hotel Arts at 7:24. Please reference the Shuttle Schedules in the Conference Info button in the Conference App. Thank you to our Sponsor.
Presented by:  |
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| 7:30 am |
Delegate Breakfast
Foyer, Palomino A-D, Palomino A-D
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| 8:00 am |
Trade Members Breakfast Meeting
Halls D-E
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Krista Reinhardt -
Fire Commissioner, Office of Fire Commissioner, Municipal Affairs
Phil Rowe - Assistant Fire Commissioner, Office of the Fire Commissioner, Municipal Affairs Palomino A-D
Presented by:   Check in at registration, obtain your event badge, and be sure to download the conference app.
Foyer, Palomino A-D
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Join your trade members for breakfast in Halls D and E, BMO Centre and provide feedback on the AFCA Trade Show.
Halls D-E
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| 9:00 am |
The AFCA Trade Show is the premier showcase of innovative products, services, and technologies tailored to the needs of fire services across Alberta. Bringing together industry-leading vendors, fire chiefs, and decision-makers, the trade show offers a unique opportunity to explore cutting-edge equipment, network with suppliers, and discover solutions that enhance fire service operations. From apparatus […]
Halls D-E
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| 10:15 am |
Coffee Break in the Trade Show Hall
Halls D-E
Presented by:  |
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| 12:00 pm |
Lunch in the Trade Show Hall
Enjoy a delicious lunch while exploring the Trade Show Hall and engaging with industry-leading vendors. This is a perfect opportunity to network with exhibitors, discover new products and services, and connect with fellow delegates in a relaxed, interactive environment.
Halls D-E
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| 1:00 pm |
In the latter half of the afternoon, fire personnel wearing their station wear are invited to attend the Trade Show with the purchase of a wristband. This special access offers an excellent opportunity to explore the latest fire service products, connect with vendors, and discover innovative solutions for your department. Don’t miss this chance to […]
Halls D-E
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| 1:15 pm |
Did you enter a prize draw? Announcements of lucky winners to take place during the afternoon of the trade show.
Halls D-E
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| 2:00 pm |
Coffee Break in the Trade Show Hall
Halls D-E
Presented by:  |
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| 4:00 pm |
Trade Show Closes
Thank you for joining the 2025 AFCA Trade Show. See you in Red Deer in 2026.
Halls D-E
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| 5:00 pm |
Hospitality Function
Exclusive Networking Opportunity – By Invitation Only Connect with peers and industry leaders at the Associated Fire Booth for an exclusive, invitation-only networking experience. Engage in meaningful conversations, build valuable relationships, and enjoy this unique opportunity to connect in a fun and relaxed setting. Invitations are required, so visit the booth to secure yours and […]
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| Time | Concurrent Stream #1 | Concurrent Stream #2 | Concurrent Stream #3 | |||
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| 7:15 am |
Departing at 7:15 from Alt Hotel, 7:21 from Fairfield Inn & Suites Calgary Downtown AND Hotel Arts at 7:24. Please reference the Shuttle Schedules in the Conference Info button in the Conference App. Thank you to our Sponsor.
Alt Hotel Calgary, Fairfield Inn & Suites and Hotel Arts
Presented by:  |
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| 7:30 am |
Breakfast will be served from 7:30 AM to 9:00 AM in the foyer of the Palomino Ballroom.
Palomino A-D
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Check in at registration, obtain your event badge, and be sure to download the conference app.
Front Concourse, BMO Centre
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| 7:45 am |
Breakfast Keynote: Alberta Emergency Management Agency Update
Joe Zatylny -
Assistant Deputy Minister/Deputy Managing Director, Alberta Emergency Management Agency Ministry of Public Safety and Emergency Services
Palomino A-D
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| 8:30 am | ||||||
| 10:30 am |
Coffee Break
Foyer, BMO Centre
Presented by: |
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| 11:00 am |
Dana Terry -
Deputy Fire Chief, Strathcona County Emergency Services
Kelly Lehr - Deputy Chief, Strathcona County Emergency Services One year ago, we embarked on a journey to transform our organizational culture by centering it around fairness, learning, and accountability. Today, we will share the positive impacts this initiative has had on our team and operations. Building on last year’s presentation, we will discuss our experiences in today’s dynamic fire services environment. Implementing a […]
Palomino A-D
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David Arcand -
Operations Chief Research, Montreal Fire Department
Martin Guilbault - Chief of Training, Montreal Fire Department Every day, on the streets of Montreal, we encounter citizens using devices equipped with lithium-ion batteries. These devices present a particular danger in case of fire, as the scale of these fires and the hazardous products released pose risks for our firefighters. Additionally, these devices are often stored inside buildings, which represents a significant risk […]
Palomino G-H
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Chris White -
Fire Chaplain
What is Fire Chaplaincy? What does a Fire Chaplain do? How can Fire Chaplaincy help your department and your community? How do you start up a Fire Chaplaincy program? These are some of the questions that officers ask about Fire Chaplaincy. This session will answer those questions and give a clearer understanding of what Fire […]
Meeting Rooms 113M-115M
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| 12:00 pm |
Laura King -
Regional Director, Canada, National Fire Protection Association
Every fire department in Alberta is challenged to deal with the growing presence of lithium-ion batteries, issues such as single-egress stairs that potentially erode longstanding codes, standards, training and operations, and the constantly changing landscape of firefighter gear and proper protection (NFPA 1970). NFPA is tackling all these challenges through research, standards revision, and the […]
Palomino A-D
Presented by:   |
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| 1:15 pm |
Cheryl Evans -
Principal Consultant, Climate Ready Together
Laura Stewart - Provincial FireSmart Specialist Wildfires have become increasingly complex in recent years due to climate change, increased development in the wildland-urban interface, and a lack of capacity for both wildland and structural fire agencies. FireSmart is about living with and managing the risk of wildfire. Every community in Alberta faces unique wildfire risks and has unique opportunities to address […]
Palomino A-D
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Everett Cooke -
Director Emergency Services/ Fire Chief, City of St. Albert
Rob Evans - Fire Chief, ECFO,EMR, EFD, EPD, Redwood Meadows Emergency Services Stewart Luchies - Regional Fire Chief, DEM, County of Newell Mac de Beaudrap - Fire Chief (ret.) Tom Littlechild - Director of Emergency Services, Siksika Nation Fire/Rescue and EMS Are you a newly appointed fire chief or on the verge of stepping into the role? Join us for an engaging and informative open forum discussion titled “So You Want to Be the Fire Chief.” This session is designed specifically for new chiefs seeking guidance, insights, and camaraderie as they embark on this vital leadership […]
Meeting Rooms 113M-115M
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Les Karpluk -
Genesis 2020 Solutions Inc.
In today’s fire service, leaders are tasked not only with operational decision-making but also with the essential responsibility of fostering trust, resilience, and strong relationships within their teams. This session will explore how emotional intelligence (EI), combined with key leadership principles from Coffee Cup Leadership and Leading the Charge: A Firefighter’s Approach to Resilient Leadership, […]
Palomino G-H
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| 2:30 pm |
Coffee Break
Foyer, BMO Centre
Presented by:  |
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| 2:45 pm |
Kyle Sherman -
Wildfire Mitigation Specialist (FireSmart Coordinator), Parkland County Fire Services
Sean Cunningham - Deputy Fire Chief, Parkland County Fire Services Municipal FireSmart programs are critical in building community resilience to wildfire, but achieving sustained success requires a multi-faceted approach. This session will explore proven tips and tricks for launching, managing, and advancing FireSmart initiatives in your community. Key topics include engaging the public to foster community buy-in, navigating grant opportunities to secure funding, building internal […]
Palomino A-D
Presented by:   |
Dave Bain -
Fire Chief, Lacombe County
For the rural fire chief, being aware of the innocuous mistakes that rural and volunteer/paid on call-based fire departments make or can make is critically important. Rural firefighting is a different beast. We have a lack of resources, equipment, longer response times and unique emergencies that require a different mindset and with that a high […]
Arabian A-C
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Sarah Peto -
Acting Lieutenant, Brandon Fire
Stephanie Bibault - Deputy Fire Chief, Training and Support, Olds Fire Department Deb Bergeson - Deputy Chief Operations, Calgary Fire Department Discover the inspiring journeys and contributions of women in the fire services across the central provinces, an often underrepresented group shaping the future of our field. This session sheds light on the unique challenges and achievements of female firefighters and leaders in diverse fire departments, from rural to urban. We’ll explore how these women have […]
Palomino G-H
Presented by:   |
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| 6:00 pm |
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| 6:30 pm |
Hosted by Smoking Gun Entertainment, Calgary
Hotel Arts, Spectrum 4 & 5
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| Time | Concurrent Stream #1 | Concurrent Stream #2 | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:30 am |
Breakfast
Hotel Arts, Spectrum 4 & 5
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| 8:00 am |
Darrell Reid -
Fire Chief (ret.)
Fire Chief Darrell Reid (ret) has served in leadership roles including CAO of Strathcona County, Fire Chief of both Vancouver Fire Rescue Services and Strathcona County Emergency Services, Deputy Fire Chief of Toronto Fire Services, CEO of Heart & Stroke Ontario, Board Chair of Heart & Stroke British Columbia and Yukon, and Founder of Emergency […]
Hotel Arts, Spectrum 4 & 5
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| 9:15 am |
Lisbeth Garcia -
Project Manager, Calgary 9-1-1, NG 9-1-1 Transition Project, Emergency & Community Safety, City of Calgary
Kimberly Sauter - Business Analyst, Next Generation 9-1-1, City of Calgary Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG9-1-1) is a massive technology improvement taking place across Canada, and it is creating buzz in first responder agencies who may not be aware of what exactly this change will mean for them. Lis and Kim are working on the implementation of NG9-1-1 in Calgary and are active in the Emergency Services […]
Hotel Arts, Spectrum 4 & 5
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Jon Evans, Deputy Fire Chief
Is your community able to purchase fire apparatus without any resistance to the escalating costs? Does your fire department have a solid preventative maintenance program in line with NFPA standards? Does your organization utilize Fire Underwriters Survey recommendations to assist with fire fleet planning? If you answered NO to any of these questions, or you […]
Hotel Arts Spectrum 3
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| 10:30 am |
Coffee Break
Hotel Arts Foyer
Presented by:  |
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| 10:45 am |
Randy Schroeder -
President, Fire Chief, Alberta Fire Chiefs Association,
Phil Rowe - Assistant Fire Commissioner, Office of the Fire Commissioner, Municipal Affairs Joe Zatylny - Assistant Deputy Minister/Deputy Managing Director, Alberta Emergency Management Agency Ministry of Public Safety and Emergency Services Ken McMullen - President, Fire Chief, Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs Jim Smith - Fire Chief, Town of Hinton This engaging panel discussion will close the AFCA 2025 Conference and Tradeshow on a high note, focusing on success stories, best practices, and forward-thinking strategies for the future of fire services in Alberta. With insights on evolving public expectations, advancements in technology, climate change, and the cost of equipping fire services, this moderated, fireside-style conversation […]
Hotel Arts, Spectrum 4 & 5
Presented by:  |
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