Networking Events

Evening Networking Events

Thursday, October 22 | 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM

FSWO Connect: Trade Show, Speaker's Corner & Networking Night

Sponsored by RK Mooney Insurance

Kick off the 2026 FSWO Symposium by connecting with firefighters, officers, chiefs, instructors, industry partners, and friends from across Canada and the United States.

The evening features a keynote presentation by Battalion Chief Dena Ali of the Raleigh (NC) Fire Department. Dena is a respected fire service leader, author of Hope Out of Darkness: A Guide to First Responder Mental Wellness, and Program Manager of Behavioral Health for the First Responder Center for Excellence. Her honest and inspiring message on resilience, leadership, and firefighter wellness will leave attendees with practical lessons and a renewed perspective on leading themselves and supporting others.

Explore the FSWO Connect Trade Show, where exhibitors will showcase the latest equipment, technology, services, and resources for today's fire service. Throughout the evening, you'll also have the opportunity to connect with many of our Symposium presenters at Speaker's Corner. This informal networking opportunity gives attendees the chance to meet speakers one-on-one, ask questions, continue conversations, and build relationships before the weekend's training sessions begin.

The evening also marks the official opening of the Silent Auction, with plenty of great items to bid on throughout the Symposium, exciting door prizes, and lots of opportunities to reconnect with colleagues and make new connections.

A complimentary supper will be served.

Whether you're attending your first Symposium or returning to see familiar faces, FSWO Connect is the perfect way to kick off an incredible few days of learning, networking, and friendship.

Friday, October 23 | 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM

FSWO Unplugged: Leadership, Laughter & Connection

After a full day of sessions and hands-on training, join us for one of the most anticipated events of the Symposium.

Led by a professional facilitator, FSWO Unplugged is designed to spark networking, conversation, and new connections in a fun, relaxed atmosphere. With music throughout the evening, it's the perfect opportunity to unwind, share stories, reconnect with old friends, make new ones, and celebrate an incredible week together.

The evening will also feature our Live Auction, the conclusion of the Silent Auction, exciting draws and prizes, and plenty of opportunities to connect with firefighters from across the fire service.