Your Conference Schedule

On-Site Registration and Check-In 7:00 am to 8:00 am Daily

Day 1 – October 15th

TimeSession
Introduction of Conference Host for Opening Remarks by Robert Avsec, MC, followed by the Presentation of Colors and our National Anthem.
Avsec introduces Keynote Speaker, TBA
Avsec & Dunckel: Presentation of FSPA Awards.
Break (10 minutes)
Is there room for a Ride Along?, Dr. Monya J Cohen
Break (10 minutes)
From Fragmented to Unified: Implementing a Statewide Zero Suicide Framework for the Florida Fire Service, Dr. Ashley T. Winch
Lunch
TBA
Break (10 minutes)
From SOF to Station: What Operator Performance Science May Offer the Fire Service, Dr. Silvia DeGirolamo
Break (10 minutes)
FSPA Membership Meeting

Day 2 – October 16th

TimeSession
Opening Remarks from MC Robert Avsec.
Presentation by Pearland FD
Break (10 minutes)
Decision-Making Under Fire: Cognitive Load, Stress, and Nervous System Effects on Performance, Dr. Jeannelle Perkins
Break (10 minutes)
TBA
Lunch
TBA
Break (10 minutes)
TBA
Break (10 minutes)
TBA
Break (10 minutes)
Dr. Gina Dunckel: Announcement of location for FSPA Conference in 2027 and presentation by the host city.
– Close of ConferenceClose of Conference

Pre and Post-conference events

Fire Service Cultural Competency
Certificate Program

October 8th & 11th | $1500 $1,000

Mental health clinicians learning what firefighters do.

At the FSPA’s Conference in 2025–With our training partners from the Pearland Fire Department–the Fire Department Cultural Competent Certificate Program was  a HUGE hit with the participants. This year we’re delighted to have the Portland Fire Department as our training partner.

This two-day program provides both hands-on and workshop training for psychologists and masters-level mental health clinicians who work with firefighters and EMS personnel and those who desire to do so in the future.

  • Day #1 – October 14th, 7:00 am to 4:00 pm.
  • Day #2 – October 17th, 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Registration for this program is available on the Conference Registration webpage as an ADD-ON option. When you register for this program as part of your conference registration you’ll SAVE $550.00 off the list price!

Add-on when you register for the conference

Live Fire Sprinkler
Demonstration

TBA

Join us for a powerful pre-conference demonstration that brings fire safety to life—literally. In a dramatic side-by-side burn comparison, you’ll witness how quickly fire consumes a fully furnished room versus one protected by a residential sprinkler system.

The difference is not subtle. Within moments, the sprinklered room halts the spread of flames, preserving life and property. It’s not just a system—it’s a silent sentinel, responding instantly, even when no one’s home.

After seeing this, you’ll understand why installing residential sprinklers is one of the most effective ways to protect your family and your future.

🔥 Kick Off the FSPA Conference with Impact: Pre-Conference Events in Pearland, Texas Before the main conference sessions begin, join us for a dynamic lineup of pre-conference programming designed to educate, connect, and inspire.

👥 Culturally Competent Clinician Program (October 8th)
Day #1 of FSPA’s flagship training for mental health professionals working with first responders. For details, visit the Before Your Conference Begins webpage.

🚿 Live Fire Sprinkler Demonstration
Witness fire protection in action. In a dramatic side-by-side burn comparison, you’ll see how quickly fire devastates a non-sprinklered room—and how a residential sprinkler system can stop it in its tracks. For details, visit the Before Your Conference Begins webpage.

🍷 Welcoming Reception
Cap off the day with a relaxed evening of connection and conversation. Meet fellow attendees, swap stories, and build relationships that will carry through the conference and beyond. Light refreshments, good company, and a shared commitment to advancing culturally competent care in the fire service—what better way to begin?

Alison Fienning, LCSW, conducts a "Neck Up Check Up, as part of her presentation, Peer Support and Clinical Support: Fire service working with a clinician and developing mental health programs.
2024 FSPA Honorees (L-R): Alison Fienning, Masters-Level Clinician of the Year; Captain Chris Moore, Fire Service Leader of the Year; Dr. Carla Moore, Psychologist of the Year.
Dr. Mellena Nichols and Captain Ben Neff delivering their presentation: Fatigue Management for Emergency Responders.