NVFC extends submission period for 2026 training summit proposals
Iain Hoey
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NVFC extends deadline for 2026 training summit proposals
The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) has extended the submission deadline for presentation proposals for the 2026 NVFC Training Summit.
The organisation said qualified instructors and speakers now have until 2 November 2025 to submit proposals.
According to the NVFC, the extension was granted to accommodate those affected by the government shutdown.
The annual NVFC Training Summit will take place from 26–27 June 2026 in Arlington, Virginia.
The NVFC said the event provides a platform for first responders to exchange ideas, share best practices and participate in professional development sessions.
Focus on health, leadership and recruitment
The NVFC confirmed that breakout sessions will be organised across three main tracks: responder health, safety and training; volunteer recruitment and retention; and emergency service leadership.
Each session will run for 90 minutes.
Examples of potential presentation topics include fireground response, physical and behavioural health, fire and life safety education, mentorship, family engagement, communication, management and long-term planning.
Other suggested subjects include the use of technology and artificial intelligence for fire departments, data for the fire service and strategies for finding funding and resources.
The organisation said it encourages a wide range of perspectives and experience among presenters.
Proposal review and presenter support
According to the NVFC, all proposals will undergo a peer review process.
Selections will be made based on quality, relevance, practical application, focus and the presenter’s experience and credentials.
Successful applicants will be notified by early December.
The NVFC confirmed it will cover travel expenses and provide a stipend for selected presenters.
Teaching teams may apply, but only one instructor per course will be eligible for reimbursement and stipend support.
The NVFC noted that all sessions must remain educational in nature, even when delivered by company or organisational representatives.
Further information, including detailed guidance on writing a strong proposal, can be found in the NVFC Call for Presentations Guide.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
The extended deadline provides additional time for fire and emergency service professionals to submit proposals for inclusion in the 2026 NVFC Training Summit.
The event offers opportunities for training officers, volunteer coordinators and fire department leaders to share methods that strengthen responder safety, health and leadership.
Its three-track structure will address issues directly relevant to operational preparedness, personnel retention and organisational development within volunteer fire services.
By covering topics such as technology adoption, data use and recruitment practices, the summit provides a platform for exchange that could inform local and national training standards.