The Maine Fire Service Institute continues to operate at full steam as we move through the heart of 2025. Once again, we find ourselves answering the call from departments across the state, balancing a heavy workload with a deep sense of purpose. Our spring skill testing season wrapped up recently, and we’re proud to report that 256 firefighters successfully achieved certification at various levels. This milestone reflects the dedication of the fire service professionals as well as the dedication of the MFSI staff.
Alongside that effort, MFSI delivered three Fire Instructor programs and three Fire Officer programs in different regions of Maine—all designed to support the growing demand for professional qualifications in our state. This work doesn’t stop for summer; in fact, we’re deep into the planning and development phase of the Firefighter I & II upgrade aligned with the 2024 NFPA Standard. The goal is to have it ready for certification testing by January or February of 2026—a timeline that will require grit, collaboration, and some long days, but it’s what we do.
Another major challenge on the horizon will be the merging and upgrading of our Fire Instructor and Fire Officer programs under the new NFPA 1020 Standard. What was once two separate standards now falls under one, covering Fire and Emergency Services Instructor, Fire Officer, and EMS Officer Professional Qualifications. This change brings logistical and curriculum hurdles that may temporarily affect program delivery. That said, MFSI is committed to doing everything we can to avoid service disruption—we know departments are counting on us, and we don’t take that lightly.
Looking ahead, the fall is shaping up strong. We’ve got a full schedule of programs across Maine, and we’re gearing up for one of our biggest events of the year: the National Fire Academy Weekend, September 20–21 in Brunswick. With several high-quality offerings, we encourage you to mark your calendars and plan to attend.
Until then, stay safe, stay hydrated, and try to enjoy a bit of summer. In true Northern New England fashion, that probably means dodging orange cones, waiting in summer traffic, and sneaking in a few quiet moments at camp before the next firehouse call comes through.
Director Graves & Staff