Fire Investigation Association of Alberta (FIAA)

06/05/2026

June 4&5, 2026. Two additional days of training for our FIAA investigators.

Day one- IAAI Show Your Work- Expert Report Writing” 30 students were treated to a wealth of knowledge by Rick and Cassie Jones with David Bridges. It is rare to have a large group of students deeply engaged on a topic of report writing for 8 hours, but mission accomplished. It was knocked out of the park. I was so engaged I forgot to take pictures. Thank you to Rick, Cassie and David for the energized presentation and sharing your knowledge.

Day two- “IAAI Evidence Collection Methodology” IAAI instructor JP Ray and FIAA instructor Scott Hanelt are sharing their knowledge to prepare 30 students to complete their ECT practical in the future. A morning of theory with an afternoon of hands on.

It’s been a great week of training for the FIAA. Watch the website for dates for the fall training courses which will be released soon. Thank you to our members for attending and to the IAAI for supporting us with their instructors.
International Association of Arson Investigators, Inc. (IAAI)

06/04/2026

IAAI/FIAA first ever Canadian Expert Witness Courtroom Testimony course is a wrap. It will be a great opportunity for Canadian investigators to expand their training and experience. A huge thank you to the Alberta Crown Prosecutors Office and the IAAI for making this possible. International Association of Arson Investigators, Inc. (IAAI)

06/03/2026

A big day for the FIAA and Canadian Fire Investigators. The long awaited Canadian Version of the Expert Witness Courtroom Testimony course is underway. The IAAI and FIAA partnered with the Alberta Crown Prosecutor’s office to substitute American laws with the Canadian equivalent. After 6 weeks of a heavy pre-course workload, 8 students were in court today to test their testimony skills under real scenarios with actual attorneys and a judge. This course will open a pathway to the IAAI- Certified Fire Investigation accreditation for Canadian investigators. This is the first of its kind in North America. Massive things can get done when groups work together for the common good. International Association of Arson Investigators, Inc. (IAAI)

05/29/2026

05/21/2026

04/27/2026

President Dales upheld the longstanding FIAA tradition of presenting outgoing IAAI President David Bridges with a custom built Smithbilt hat. He was very excited to receive his had and presented Glenda with an autographed Houston Astros batting helmet. A ladder wasn’t available so President Bridges helped her out a little bit.

04/27/2026

A very proud moment for all members of the Fire Investigation Association of Alberta. At the 2026 IAAI AGM, our Chapter was selected as the Chapter of the Year by the nominations committee. The relationship between the IAAI and FIAA has been strengthened over the years which has resulted increased opportunities for our membership. This is the second time this honour has been awarded to our Chapter. It will be shared with everyone when we get home!

04/27/2026

A big day for the FIAA. Board Member Scott Hanelt was recognized with the International Award of Recognition for his hard work and dedication to our Chapter and the International Chapter. Scott dedicates a great deal of his time to help train and mentor investigators not only from Alberta but from around North American. Congratulations Scott, well deserved.

01/15/2026

It is with great sadness that i report former FIAA member Ed Pomerleau passed away on January 11, 2026 at the age of 82. He served the Alberta Fire Commissioner’s Office for 27 years and was a long time member and contributor to the fire investigation community. Ed could always be counted on for help, guidance, mentorship and a coffee. He will be missed by the FIAA.