Going Back to Cali

Firehouse will return to California next year, in partnership with the California State Firefighters’ Association (CSFA) and its second annual CSFA Training & Education Expo (CTEX). The event takes place Feb. 25–March 3 in Riverside, CA.

The event isn’t just for California firefighters but is open to brother and sister firefighters from across the country. Riverside is close to several major airports.

Training & Education

As the final details are being put together for CTEX 2024, several tracks are designed for firefighters, officers, and fire service leaders as well as for the full ranks of the fire service.

The keynote address will be delivered by Frank Leeb on Feb. 26. Leeb, who is a deputy chief with FDNY and a staunch advocate of firefighter training and leadership development, is sure to inspire current and future leaders with his experiences as a company officer and chief in busy FDNY units and from decades of experience in the volunteer fire service. He will tie together leadership development, the critical need for constant training, and health and safety focuses as the cornerstones of a fire service career.

The education committee is focused on engaging and preparing attendees on topics that include:

• Recruitment and retention
• Fire officer development
• Fire department operations
• Wildland/WUI response
• Diversity and career development
• Retirement planning
• Mental and physical wellness
• Lessons learned

A collaborative effort with Prevent Training Solutions and other training groups will provide for several multiday hands-on training classes in live fire and other environments, to reinforce skills that were taught in the classroom or gleaned from online learning.

Select classes provide required California certifications but are open to attendees from all over.

Vendors & Social Events

The event boasts three days during which attendees can connect with local and national vendors to understand the latest technology, product solutions and services to help firefighters to carry out their mission.

Afternoon and evening social events will allow attendees to connect with seasoned and next-generation firefighters and officers to discuss the future of the fire service, including outdoor socials to take in the refreshing Southern California weather during the early springtime.

Historic Riverside

Riverside is located 50 miles from downtown Los Angeles in the Inland Empire area of SoCal. The city is home to 24 nationally registered sites and more than 100 historic locations, including the Mission Inn Hotel and Spa and the Fox Performing Arts Center. The city has a vibrant arts, food and nightlife scene and offers exciting weekend getaways.

CSFA

CSFA represents thousands of firefighters and other fire/rescue and dispatch members across California, advocating for training, health and safety, and education for its members.