Fire Science and Technology Educators

NFPA Journal, May/Jun 2005 by Gagnon, Robert M

WEB SITE: http://www.nfpa.org/firescience

CHAIR: Patrick Kennedy, John A. Kennedy & Associates

Distance-Learning Programs

The Fire Science and Technology Educators Section has been newly revitalized, with membership growing and participation very strong. We welcome our new members and encourage you to visit us at our booth at the World Safety Conference and Exposition® (WSCE®) and to let us know if you want to participate in the section leadership. You can keep up-to-date on section news by visiting www.NFPA.org/firescience.

A relatively recent and very encouraging trend in fire science education is the growth of distance-learning programs conducted by schools and universities and by organizations representing the sprinkler and fire protection industry. Among these are the American Fire Sprinkler Association and the National Fire Sprinkler Association, which have conducted distance-learning programs for some time, and the Society of Fire Protection Engineers, which is developing a number of programs aimed at practicing professionals, particularly fire marshals and code officials. The University of Maryland Department of Fire Protection Engineering has also launched a distance-learning program for those interested in a Master's degree in fire protection engineering, and Worcester Polytechnic Institute has a very successful Master's program in fire protection engineering. Many other distance-learning programs are in full swing or are being developed.

Distance-learning programs make fire science and fire protection engineering education accessible to students and professionals throughout the world, and the expansion of these programs will help vitalize our profession, allowing us to keep up with the demand for fire science professionals.

Section-Sponsored Events at WSCE®

The Fire Science and Technology Educators Section will sponsor several events at the World Safety Conference and Exposition® (WSCE®) in Las Vegas in June.

Tuesday, June 7

1:30 P.M.-2:30 P.M.

Fire Science and Technology Educators Section Business Meeting

Wednesday, June 8

4 P.M.-5 P.M.

Case Study: Hazardous Materials in the British Virgin Islands-Keeping Up with Development

HOW TO REACH US: Frank Florence, Executive Secretary, (617) 984-7480, fflorence@nfpa.org

by ROBERT M. GAGNON, P.E.

Robert M. Gagnon, P.E., is the principal of Gagnon Engineering in Woodbine, Maryland.