MU FRTI Winter Fire School

COLUMBIA, Mo. – In February, the 45th annual University of Missouri Extension Fire and Rescue Training Institute Winter Fire School drew hundreds of dedicated firefighters and emergency services professionals for an intensive weekend of hands-on learning, professional development, and networking.

The program featured dozens of in-person classes, workshops and seminars; live webcasts extending training statewide to additional participants, and one of the largest one-day equipment expositions showcased numerous exhibitors and the latest tools and technologies, said FRTI Director Harry Ward.

The event brought together 814 faculty, staff and students from 79 Missouri counties and 19 states, representing 219 departments.

“The impact was made possible by the expertise, passion, and dedication of our knowledgeable instructors, supportive staff, committed attendees and generous exhibitors,” Ward said.

“While the MU FRTI team coordinates the logistics and brings everyone together, the instructors, responders and partners are the true heart of Winter Fire School,” he said. “Their contributions elevate training standards and strengthen the Missouri fire service every year.”

For many attendees it is like a family reunion as former firefighters, fire chiefs and even two former MU FRTI directors attended, gathering to reminisce and swap stories, Ward said.