The North American Fire Training Directors (NAFTD) represents state and provincial fire training directors from the United States and Canada. On an annual basis, the combined membership provides training to more than one million career and volunteer firefighters. The NAFTD holds its annual Spring Meeting as part of FDIC.
According to Eriks Gabliks, president of the NAFTD, the group holds its meeting at FDIC because “FDIC is the largest event in the world for fire service trainers. FDIC actively works with partner organizations such as ours to get not only the best instructors but also cutting edge topics as part of the conference. FDIC attendees receive copies of presenter lesson plans and presentations so they can deliver the classes back at their agency. FDIC has an advisory panel made up of fire service professionals who review each class and instructor to ensure attendees will be getting a great presentation from a knowledgeable presenter.”
Gabliks continues, “FDIC draws tens of thousands of attendees and exhibitors. While the conference is one of the largest in the world, it still treats everyone like family. It’s a well-run event, held at a great location, with great presentations and an amazing exhibit area, with everything under one (very large) roof that spans a number of city blocks.”
“Our attendees enjoy the FDIC experience. This includes hundreds of great classes, various networking events, and an amazing exhibitor area that includes everything from apparatus manufacturers, safety equipment designers and suppliers, and training program publishers all under one roof. No one else does this as well as FDIC.” Gabliks adds.
He has been attending the FDIC since 1985, and a number of members from the NAFTD have been attending even longer. “The NAFTD is proud of the relationship we maintain with the FDIC team,” Gabliks adds.
Does he have any advice for first-time attendees? “First, take the time to read the FDIC schedule before the conference begins. Take a highlighter and mark the presentations you want to attend. If you are in a group of folks from your fire department, you might want to split up and attend a number of presentations to ensure you are all getting what you need to bring back to your agency.”
“Second, the exhibit area is even larger than the photos can show. Make sure you pack your business cards, bring a camera, and wear comfortable shoes. The first time through, don’t visit with anyone–just walk down the aisles to see what and who is there. Jot down the booth numbers/locations of exhibitors you need and want to see. Once you have walked through the entire exhibit area, grab a quick bite to eat and then it is time to go back and visit with the vendors you need and want to get information from. This way, you will have a chance to see the entire show floor and also go back and make contact with the folks you want more information from. You will find the representatives at the booth to be very knowledgeable and the best in the business.”
“Third, enjoy the local flavor after conference hours. FDIC is located in downtown Indianapolis, and there are hundreds of great restaurants within walking distance of the convention center. The choice is yours, small neighborhood pubs and eateries, nationally known names, and some amazing late night party locations.
EVENT:
NAFTD Meeting
Friday, April 26, 2013, 1:00 pm -5:00 pm, Room 132-133
The North American Fire Training Directors (NAFTD), comprised of the 50 states and the Canadian provinces and territorial training directors, will conduct its annual spring meeting. The meeting will be for members only and invited guests such as Dr. Denis Onieal, Superintendent of the National Fire Academy, will provide an update on the federal fire programs and various committee reports. Typical agenda items include topics pertinent to the management of a state, provincial, or territorial training program.
