Join Us in Kansas City for FRI 2026!

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Welcome to Fire-Rescue International (FRI) 2026

Each summer, thousands of the most prominent fire and emergency service leaders come to FRI to learn, network, and collaborate. Make sure you are one of them!

For more than 150 years, fire and emergency service leaders have gathered to exchange ideas, challenge the status quo, and advance the profession. What began in 1873 as a meeting to share innovations and improve fire department operations has grown into the premier leadership conference for the fire and EMS community.

Fire-Rescue International is where the future of the fire service takes shape.

Hosted by the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC), FRI brings together thousands of chiefs, officers, and industry leaders from across the world for an unmatched experience in leadership, education, innovation, and connection. 

Meet our Featured Speakers

Nick Lavery with FirstNet presenting at Fire-Rescue International
Meet Nick Lavery - Opening General Session Speaker | WEDNESDAY, AUG 12th @ 8:30 AM
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FirstNet

Nick Lavery is a retired Green Beret in the United States Army Special Forces and the founder & CEO of Precision Components LLC. After a life-altering injury sustained in combat, he transformed his challenges into a series of curricula on leadership, resilience, and goal achievement.

As one of the most sought-after speakers and mentors in the country, Nick and his team of assets share valuable insights on discipline, work ethic, and teamwork, in turn empowering others to unlock capacity and increase capability.

Dan Chuparkoff with FirstDue
Meet Dan Chuparkoff - Closing General Session Speaker | FRIDAY, AUG 14th @ 9:15 AM
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FirstDue

Dan Chuparkoff is one of the world’s leading experts on AI, innovation, & the future of work. As a technology leader at Google, McKinsey, Atlassian, and more, Dan led transformations for teams in every industry as the world navigated three decades of technological change.

Known as a practical, understandable technology speaker, Dan’s superpower is making complex things simple and useful. With his skill and power of innovation, he helps audiences to escape disruption and find growth and success.

Special Events at FRI

Experience More Than Ever Before

FRI 2026 features an expanded lineup of special events designed to help you connect, learn, and recharge. Kick off the week at the Kick-Off Party at KC Live! powered by FirstNet Built by AT&T then gain insights into emerging trends at the Future Focus Lunch powered by 1-800-BoardUp. Prioritize your well-being at the Health & Wellness Experience at T-Mobile Center powered by T-Mobile Government, featuring a 5K run/walk (sign up), yoga, and other activities focused on personal and professional wellness.

Unwind and network at the Happy Hour powered by 1-800-BoardUp and Rosenbauer, then keep the momentum going at the Block Party, where networking, innovation, and the exhibit hall come together in a fun and engaging atmosphere. With more opportunities than ever to connect, collaborate, and celebrate, FRI offers experiences for every attendee—both inside and outside the classroom.

Build your FRI experience by adding special events during registration.

Some events are complimentary, while others require a ticket purchase. Tickets must be purchased in advance. All Access Pass holders receive a ticket to the Kick-Off Party, while Discover Pass attendees may purchase tickets. All Access attendees may also purchase additional tickets for guests. Don’t miss your chance to make the most of your week at FRI 2026.

What's New in 2026

Streamlined Exhibit Hall
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Now two high-impact days — Wednesday (Noon–6 PM) and Thursday (10 AM–6 PM) for more focused engagement and time for networking, product exploration, and meaningful conversations

Kick-Off Party at KC Live!
FRI Kickoff Party

Tuesday - Start the week strong at this can’t-miss event sponsored by FirstNet®, Built with AT&T

Discovery Stage
FRI Division Breakfast

A new show-floor hub featuring live panels, product spotlights, and leadership conversations

Division Gatherings
FRI Division Breakfast

What were the Division lunches are now Friday morning breakfasts, giving you a fresh way to connect and collaborate

This is where leaders gather. Ideas ignite. And the next chapter of the fire and EMS profession begins. Explore the FRI 2025 recap and watch the video highlights to take a look back at this year’s conference.

 

What You'll Experience at FRI

  • Engage in powerful educational sessions led by the most respected voices in the profession
  • Discover the latest technologies and solutions transforming emergency response
  • Connect with peers facing the same challenges and opportunities
  • Gain strategies and insights you can take back to strengthen your department and community
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Highlights from FRI 2025

FRI 25 Recap
 

FRI 2025 brought the Fire Service Together in Orlando, Florida where more than 5,000 fire and EMS professionals from across the globe gathered in Orlando, Florida, for the 152nd International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) Fire-Rescue International (FRI) conference. FRI once again proved to be the premier event for fire service leadership, education, and networking, offering attendees the opportunity to learn, connect, and shape the future of our profession.

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