ED COLLET has been in the fire service since 2002. His background in mechanical engineering drew him to hydraulics and pump operations. He is an instructor at the Ohio Fire Academy focusing on pump operations and water supply. As part of Africa Fire MIssion and Va El Agua he has taught pump operation and water supply throughout Africa and South America.

ANDY SOCCODATO has served in the fire service since 2006 in both career and volunteer agencies that covered both rural and urban communities. He currently works as a full time Fire Instructor II at the Tennessee State Fire Academy where he oversees the driver/pump & aerial programs. Soccodato is also the owner of a training company called The Water Thieves. In addition to being an FDIC Instructor, Soccodato is also a member of the Fire Apparatus & Emergency Equipment Magazine Editorial Advisory Board, and is the author of the book Water Thievery: The Art of Water Supply Operations

TONYA HOOVER is a retired Deputy U.S. Fire Administrator and one of the most accomplished leaders in the American fire service. Her career includes serving as Superintendent of the U.S. National Fire Academy and as California State Fire Marshal, along with key leadership roles across state and national organizations. She has contributed to major fire service boards including NFPA, IFSTA, and ICC, helping shape national standards, education, and fire prevention initiatives.

ANDY STARNES brings over 30 years of EMS and fire service experience, including 25 years with the Charlotte Fire Department as a Firefighter, Captain, and Battalion Chief. He is an internationally recognized leader in thermal imaging and behavioral health, with published work in Euro Firefighter II. Andy has trained departments across the U.S. and in 20 countries, delivering a copyrighted, internationally recognized thermal imaging curriculum. He also developed the world’s first firefighting Thermology curriculum, credentialed by Western Kentucky University.

DENNIS LEGEAR captain (ret.) Oakland (CA). Creator, the Turbo Back Pressure Device, the 1 3/16" Smooth Bore Tip, matching NP/Gpm Fogs to Smoothbore project and TRU hose spec movement. A technical panel member on both UL FRSI’s Fire Streams & Coordinated Attack Studies. Published in F.E. F/F Handbook, Magazine & Fire Apparatus magazine, FDIC Instructor (Workshop, Hot and Classroom) He holds a A.S. in fire science & BS Vocational Ed. Owner, LeGear Engineering FD Consulting.

RAY MCCORMACK is a nationally respected fire service leader known for his decades of experience with FDNY and his influential work as an instructor, author, and tactician. He has shaped modern nozzle practices through clear, practical teaching and a lifelong commitment to firefighter safety and performance. Ray continues to mentor departments across the country, helping elevate fireground mastery through hands on training and expert guidance.