Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority (ADCDA) has reported a new collaboration with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).
NFPA survey highlights AI and training in skilled trades
The NFPA 2025 survey highlights AI adoption, digital tools, training demand, certification gaps, and workforce pressures in the skilled trades sector.
Jim Pauley announces retirement from NFPA presidency
Who will succeed Jim Pauley after a decade leading NFPA?
Jim Pauley has announced that he will retire as President and Chief Executive Officer of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) on 31 July 2026.
According to Pauley, he informed the NFPA Board of Directors of his plans more than a year ago, and the organisation has since been preparing for the transition.
He explained that the board has been considering how it intends to manage the leadership search.
Pauley said the process will not formally begin until November 2025.
He added that NFPA staff were informed this week, prompting a broader public announcement.
Search process to begin later this year
Pauley confirmed that the NFPA Board of Directors has appointed Spencer Stuart, an executive search firm, to manage the recruitment.
He stated that the formal process will commence in November 2025, with further details to be released once the search is underway.
The NFPA indicated that inquiries regarding the appointment should be directed to Spencer Stuart when the process begins.
It added that the organisation will publish a formal statement once the recruitment phase has started.
NFPA’s history of leadership
Pauley noted that the NFPA has had only seven presidents in its 130-year history.
He said it has been an honour to serve as one of them.
The NFPA is headquartered in the United States and develops standards and guidance for fire protection, life safety and electrical safety.
Pauley has served as President and CEO since 2014.
Transition and continuity plans
Pauley said he will work closely with the board during the transition period.
He stated that the goal is to ensure a smooth process from announcement through to succession.
He added that he will remain fully engaged with NFPA’s activities until his retirement date.
Pauley explained that the organisation will continue to focus on advancing its mission during the transition period.
NFPA mission during transition
According to Pauley, the NFPA will continue its work to advance its mission of protecting people and property from fire, life safety and electrical hazards.
He stated that this work will remain the organisation’s priority until his departure in 2026.
He added that the NFPA will continue operating at full speed through the transition process.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
The transition in leadership at NFPA is relevant to fire and safety professionals because the organisation sets widely recognised codes and standards that influence global practice.
A change in leadership may shape how the NFPA prioritises updates to its standards and engages with international fire safety bodies.
Awareness of the succession process provides context for how long-term projects and regulatory work may be managed during and after the transition.
Professionals can expect continuity until at least mid-2026, when Pauley steps down.
Jim Pauley announces retirement from NFPA presidency: Summary
Jim Pauley will retire as NFPA President and CEO on 31 July 2026.
He informed the NFPA Board of Directors of his plans in 2024.
The leadership search will begin in November 2025.
Spencer Stuart has been appointed to lead the recruitment process.
The NFPA will release a formal announcement once the process starts.
The organisation has had only seven presidents in its 130-year history.
Pauley has led the NFPA since 2014.
He said he will continue to work with the board to ensure a smooth transition.
He stated that the NFPA will continue to advance its mission until his departure.
The mission focuses on protecting people and property from fire, life safety and electrical hazards.
NFPA appoints new directors and officers following 2025 board election
Mariana Ruiz-Temple elected to NFPA Board
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has announced the results of its 2025 Board of Directors election.
According to the NFPA, the election took place during its Annual Meeting on 16 June 2025 and confirmed one new officer, one new director, one new member and the reappointment of three existing board members.
Mariana Ruiz-Temple, Oregon State Fire Marshal, has been elected to a three-year term on the Board.
The NFPA said Ruiz-Temple brings more than 30 years of experience in public safety leadership, including fire service operations, emergency management, and strategic coordination across agencies.
The organisation explained that Ruiz-Temple currently oversees Oregon’s statewide programmes aimed at reducing the loss of life and property from fires, explosions, and hazardous materials incidents.
It added that her responsibilities also include working with legislators on fire-related policy and participating in regional and national emergency response initiatives.
The NFPA said she most recently served on the Wildland Fire Mitigation and Management Commission, contributing to Congressional recommendations on wildfire prevention, response, and recovery.
Michael Snyder appointed for one-year board term
Michael Snyder has been elected by the NFPA Board of Directors to serve a one-year term.
The NFPA said Snyder began his fire service career in Aquashicola, Pennsylvania before moving to Auburn, Michigan, where he eventually became Fire Marshal in 2011.
It added that he spent 30 years at Dow Corning Corporation working in fire and life safety roles, ultimately becoming global director of safety, industrial hygiene, and loss prevention between 2008 and 2016.
Since 2016, Snyder has worked at DEKRA Process Safety.
He currently holds the role of vice president of Operational Risk Management.
The NFPA stated that Snyder’s combined experience in public and industrial fire safety supported his election to the Board.
Three current members reappointed for another term
NFPA members have re-elected three directors to serve second three-year terms.
According to the NFPA, H. Butch Browning, Executive Director of the National Association of State Fire Marshals, was first elected to the Board in 2022.
It said Adrián Gallardo Landeros, General Director of Servicios de Información Estratégica (SIE Consultories), was also re-elected after joining the Board in 2022.
The third re-elected member is Mark Ghilarducci, Chief Executive Officer of Emergent Global Solutions, who has likewise served since 2022.
The NFPA stated that each reappointed director brings continuing expertise and alignment with the organisation’s mission.
It said their re-election ensures consistency in governance and policy continuity for the NFPA.
Reginald Freeman appointed board treasurer
The NFPA Board has elected Dr. Reginald Freeman to the role of treasurer for a one-year term.
According to the NFPA, Freeman has been a member of the Board since 2018.
It said he most recently served as assistant treasurer.
Freeman’s background includes leadership positions in fire service operations and emergency management, the NFPA added.
It said his appointment to treasurer reflects the Board’s intention to maintain financial oversight experience within its officer ranks.
The NFPA noted that all other existing directors and officers will continue in their current roles.
Board changes reflect mix of continuity and new leadership
The NFPA stated that its 2025 board elections provide a blend of new leadership and institutional continuity.
It said the inclusion of new members such as Ruiz-Temple and Snyder complements the reappointment of established directors.
According to the NFPA, this structure supports both strategic renewal and experience-based decision making.
It added that the leadership composition aligns with NFPA’s core goals in fire protection, risk reduction, and safety governance.
The NFPA said that all appointments are effective immediately following the June 2025 Annual Meeting.
It confirmed that further information about each member is available via its official governance records.
NFPA appoints new directors and officers following 2025 board election: Summary
The National Fire Protection Association completed its Board of Directors election at its Annual Meeting on 16 June 2025.
The organisation announced the appointment of one new officer, one new director, one new member, and the reappointment of three board members.
Mariana Ruiz-Temple, Oregon State Fire Marshal, was elected to a three-year board term.
Michael Snyder was appointed to serve a one-year board term.
Dr. Reginald Freeman was elected treasurer after previously serving as assistant treasurer.
H. Butch Browning, Adrián Gallardo Landeros, and Mark Ghilarducci were each re-elected for second three-year terms.
The NFPA said all other directors and officers will continue in their current roles.
The appointments were confirmed by member vote and board election.
NFPA to host fire standards programme at Intersec Saudi Arabia 2025
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Full-day NFPA event to focus on Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) will lead a full-day programme on 30 September as part of Intersec Saudi Arabia’s Fire Protection and Technology Summit.
The event, to be held at Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Centre, will focus on how international standards can support fire and life safety across Saudi Arabia, in line with Vision 2030.
According to the organisers, the NFPA Day will address topics such as large-scale event protection, fire regulation compliance and human capital development in the safety sector.
Jim Pauley, President and CEO of NFPA, will deliver the keynote address alongside representatives from Saudi Civil Defense.
The sessions will be curated by Zahi Daher, Saudi Country Manager of International Business Development at NFPA.
NFPA to offer sessions on regulation, training and giga-projects
According to Intersec Saudi Arabia, the NFPA Day will include multiple presentations and discussions led by industry and government stakeholders.
Planned sessions include ‘Protecting GIGA Developments and Large-Scale Events in the Kingdom’, ‘Building Human Capital in Fire Protection’, and ‘Navigating New Fire Safety Regulations and Compliance’.
NFPA said the programme is intended to provide direct engagement with Saudi professionals on local safety challenges.
Jim Pauley, NFPA President and CEO, said: “As Saudi Arabia undergoes rapid transformation aligned with Vision 2030, integrating internationally recognized fire and life safety standards is more vital than ever.
“NFPA is pleased to support the Kingdom by providing the knowledge, resources, and global expertise needed to safeguard lives, property, and infrastructure.
“We are honoured to be part of Intersec Saudi Arabia, where we can engage directly with local stakeholders and help drive meaningful progress in fire safety.”
NFPA added that the event will provide practical insights into applying NFPA standards and certification systems to Saudi Arabia’s context.
Regional focus on standards and innovation
Intersec Saudi Arabia said the NFPA Day is one element of a broader Fire Protection and Technology Summit programme spanning 29 September to 1 October.
According to the organisers, the summit aims to address safety challenges specific to the region, including the integration of smart systems, mass event planning and high-rise incident response.
Sessions will feature topics such as AI-enabled fire detection, IoT applications in prevention systems, and HAZMAT coordination frameworks.
The summit will also include case studies from events such as Hajj and Saudi Arabia’s national space sector development.
According to the organisers, the summit is designed to provide sector-specific expertise on safety infrastructure across multiple industries.
Spotlight on training and representation in fire safety
The final day of the summit on 1 October will include sessions focused on building a skilled safety workforce in Saudi Arabia.
Topics will include educational pathways, localised training frameworks, and community-level fire awareness initiatives.
Riham Sedik, Exhibition Director of Intersec Saudi Arabia at Messe Frankfurt Middle East, said the summit aims to connect experts with emerging talent.
A dedicated session will explore the role of women in the fire protection sector and how they are contributing to sector development in the Kingdom.
Intersec Saudi Arabia stated that these sessions are part of its broader commitment to supporting workforce growth and diversity in safety fields.
Industry and government collaboration featured at event
The NFPA programme is being developed in collaboration with Saudi Civil Defense and various governmental stakeholders.
According to Intersec Saudi Arabia, the goal is to align national development priorities with international safety protocols.
Bilal Al Barmawi, CEO and Founder of 1st Arabia Trade Shows & Conferences, said: “The NFPA Day at Intersec Saudi Arabia 2025 offers a dedicated platform to explore how international fire and life safety standards can be applied to support Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, accelerating fire protection and safety in the Kingdom.”
Zahi Daher, NFPA Saudi Country Manager, added: “The NFPA Day at Intersec Saudi Arabia is more than just a series of sessions – it’s a dynamic platform for exchanging knowledge, building local expertise, and fostering meaningful collaboration between industry leaders, government authorities, and safety professionals.
“Our goal is to elevate fire protection standards across the Kingdom, laying the foundation for safer communities today and for generations to come.”
Networking opportunities will be available throughout the event for participants seeking collaboration or knowledge exchange.
NFPA to host fire standards programme at Intersec Saudi Arabia 2025: Summary
The NFPA will host a full-day event on 30 September as part of Intersec Saudi Arabia 2025.
The event will be held at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Centre.
The event forms part of the Fire Protection and Technology Summit.
The NFPA Day will include sessions on fire safety regulations, giga-project protection and workforce training.
Jim Pauley, President and CEO of NFPA, will open the event with a keynote address.
Zahi Daher, NFPA Saudi Country Manager, will chair the programme.
Intersec Saudi Arabia is organised by 1st Arabia and licensed by Messe Frankfurt.
The summit will include sessions on AI fire detection, smart city firefighting and HAZMAT response.
The final day will focus on workforce development and women in fire safety.
Networking sessions will be included to promote collaboration and industry engagement.
NFPA recognises 13 individuals for standards development service in the US
NFPA awards highlight voluntary contribution to fire code development
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has recognised 13 individuals for their contributions to standards development across the United States.
The awards were presented during the Stars at Night ceremony at the 2025 NFPA Conference & Expo, held in Las Vegas on 15 June.
The NFPA explained that the Committee Service Award is given to individuals who have shown ongoing voluntary service to the development of NFPA codes and standards.
In addition to the Committee Service Awards, one Special Achievement Award was presented in recognition of exceptional service to the NFPA’s code development work.
The Standards Council selected the award recipients based on their long-term technical committee involvement and dedication to regulatory advancement in fire safety and engineering.
Committee Service Award recognises ongoing technical involvement
12 recipients were honoured with the Committee Service Award in 2025.
The organisation said this award is designed to acknowledge individuals who have provided consistent and voluntary support as technical committee members.
The 2025 Committee Service Award recipients were:
David T. Bernzweig of the Ohio Association of Professional Fire Fighters, based in Columbus, Ohio.
Robert J. Davidson of Davidson Code Concepts LLC, based in Easley, South Carolina.
William F. Kearns of Fred D. Pfening Company, based in Columbus, Ohio.
Chad Kennedy of Schneider Electric, based in Blythewood, South Carolina.
Dr. Timothy J. Myers of Exponent Inc., based in Natick, Massachusetts.
Michael S. O’Boyle of Philips Lightolier/Signify North America Corporation, based in South Dartmouth, Massachusetts.
Jack E. Osborn and Jason P. Reason of Airdusco Inc., based in Memphis, Tennessee, and Greenwood, Indiana, respectively.
Gregory J. Steinman of ABB Installation Products Inc., based in Memphis, Tennessee.
Robert D. Tutterow of the Fire Industry Education Resource Organization, based in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Rodney J. West of Schneider Electric, based in Oxford, Ohio.
Harry P. Winer of HIP Consulting LLC, based in Ashland, Massachusetts.
The NFPA noted that each recipient had played a role in advancing the standards process across multiple disciplines in the fire safety and protection sectors.
Special Achievement Award presented to Maryland-based contributor
The NFPA confirmed that the Special Achievement Award for 2025 was presented to Richard Garber of the Anne Arundel County Fire Department in Manheim, Pennsylvania.
This award is given for distinguished contributions to NFPA projects or activities that do not fall within the scope of a single technical committee.
Garber was recognised for his exceptional impact on codes and standards through work that has extended beyond committee-level responsibilities.
The organisation said the Special Achievement Award highlights contributions that advance safety knowledge, develop practical tools, or demonstrate commitment to fire protection efforts in ways not captured by other awards.
The NFPA added that recipients are chosen by the Standards Council, which is appointed by the NFPA Board of Directors and consists of 13 members.
It also noted that the Council is responsible for overseeing standards development activities and ensuring compliance with NFPA’s rules and regulations.
NFPA recognises 13 individuals for standards development service in the US: Summary
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) held its 2025 Stars at Night awards on 15 June during its annual Conference & Expo in Las Vegas.
Thirteen individuals were recognised for their service to standards development in the United States.
Twelve recipients received the Committee Service Award for voluntary work on NFPA technical committees.
One recipient received the Special Achievement Award for contributions outside committee-specific activities.
The Committee Service Award recipients included representatives from organisations in Ohio, South Carolina, Massachusetts, Indiana, North Carolina, and Tennessee.
Richard Garber of Anne Arundel County Fire Department was the recipient of the Special Achievement Award.
The awards were selected by the NFPA Standards Council.
The Council is appointed by the NFPA Board of Directors.
It oversees standards development, ensures regulatory compliance, and serves as an appeals body.
The Council also presides over the annual NFPA Technical Meeting.
What the NFPA 2025 Conference revealed about fire safety failures worldwide
NFPA 2025 Conference & Expo addresses global fire and life safety challenges
The NFPA’s 2025 Conference & Expo featured international discussions on fire and life safety challenges, framed around the Fire & Life Safety Ecosystem model.
First introduced in 2018, the Ecosystem concept remains central to NFPA’s international outreach, and was the subject of multiple presentations during the Las Vegas event.
According to the NFPA, the model supports collaborative strategies for emerging risks, including those involving lithium-ion batteries, wildfires and high-rise buildings under construction or renovation.
Jim Pauley, President and CEO of NFPA, said the Ecosystem framework is intended to support risk reduction by focusing on six interconnected factors: government responsibility, code compliance, reference standards, workforce competency, safety investment and emergency readiness.
The NFPA stated that its Conference & Expo aims to provide a space for debate and exchange of practical knowledge, especially in countries with increasing demand for systematic safety strategies.
ADCDA wins 2025 Ecosystem Global Influencer Award
The NFPA presented its 2025 Fire & Life Safety Ecosystem Global Influencer Award to the Abu Dhabi Civil Defense Authority (ADCDA) during the Stars at Night awards ceremony.
The award was launched in 2024 to recognise international organisations demonstrating long-term commitment to fire and life safety through the Ecosystem model.
The NFPA reported that ADCDA was recognised for a three-year certification programme delivered in partnership with the NFPA, which supports advanced training for engineers, inspectors and hazardous materials specialists.
ADCDA’s use of updated codes and enforcement practices, alongside proactive public outreach, was described by NFPA as an example of system-wide implementation of safety measures.
Jim Pauley, President and CEO of NFPA, said: “Abu Dhabi Civil Defense Authority’s commitment to innovation, training, and outreach has contributed to measurable gains in public safety … A reported 64 percent reduction in fire deaths per 100,000 people since 2021.”
Grenfell session revisits breakdown of safety components
The NFPA hosted a dedicated session on the legacy of the Grenfell Tower Fire as part of the 2025 Conference & Expo programme.
According to the NFPA, the 2017 Grenfell Tower fire was one of the events that informed the creation of the Fire & Life Safety Ecosystem, following identified failures in codes and systems.
Jim Pauley introduced the session, titled “Grenfell Tower: Legacy, Lessons, and the Path Forward”, which focused on systemic failings and the conclusions of the two-phase inquiry report published in 2024.
Professor Jose Torero Cullen of University College London, who served as an expert witness during the inquiry, presented on the preventable nature of the fire and the knowledge gaps that contributed to the outcome.
Torero said: “The Grenfell Tower fire reflected a systematic erosion of safety. Everything that happened was foreseeable and the knowledge to prevent it existed.”
NFPA Research Director Birgitte Messerschmidt chaired a panel Q&A that examined how failures in all six elements of the Ecosystem contributed to the disaster.
Mega project fire safety discussed in Middle East session
The NFPA reported that a session titled “Building the Future: Mega Projects Fire and Life Safety Challenges” addressed safety risks in large-scale construction efforts.
The discussion took place Monday morning during the Conference & Expo and explored the complexity of safety planning in mega projects such as hospitals, transport systems and large commercial builds.
According to NFPA, these projects present heightened safety concerns due to overlapping stakeholder responsibilities, extended timelines and the scale of operations.
Speakers identified the Middle East as a region with rapid growth in mega infrastructure developments, where fire and life safety strategies must be embedded from the outset.
The session featured a café-style format allowing fire safety professionals and engineers to share regional experiences and operational recommendations.
NFPA said these interactive sessions are designed to support mutual learning across jurisdictions, especially where large projects are underway or in planning.
Latin America mini conference focuses on NFPA codes
NFPA stated that its 2025 Conference & Expo included a dedicated Spanish-language mini conference titled “Focus on Latin America: Sessions in Spanish”.
The programme runs across multiple days and includes eight sessions tailored to fire safety challenges across South and Central America.
Dawnia Greene, Senior Programme Manager for International Business Development at NFPA, reported that over 100 attendees from across the region registered for the sessions.
According to the NFPA, use of its codes and standards has expanded significantly across Latin America in recent years, prompting the need for more region-specific content and peer exchange.
The sessions provide a platform for fire safety officials and engineers from Latin America to engage directly with code specialists and fellow professionals.
The mini conference is part of NFPA’s stated goal to support international knowledge-sharing and reduce fire risks through consistent safety practices.
NFPA 2025 Conference & Expo addresses global fire and life safety challenges: Summary
The NFPA held its 2025 Conference & Expo in Las Vegas.
The event featured sessions focused on the NFPA Fire & Life Safety Ecosystem.
The Ecosystem includes six areas: government responsibility, code compliance, standards, workforce skills, safety investment and emergency preparedness.
Jim Pauley, NFPA President and CEO, said these components must all be in place for safety systems to be effective.
The NFPA awarded Abu Dhabi Civil Defense Authority the 2025 Ecosystem Global Influencer Award.
The award recognised ADCDA’s three-year training programme and commitment to updated codes.
The Grenfell Tower fire in London was discussed in a dedicated session.
Professor Jose Torero said the fire was preventable and reflected systemic failures.
NFPA also hosted a session on safety in mega infrastructure projects.
The session highlighted fire safety issues in large-scale construction, especially in the Middle East.
A mini conference focused on Latin America was held in Spanish.
NFPA reported rising use of its codes and standards across South and Central America.
The organisation said over 100 people registered for the Latin America sessions.
Abu Dhabi Civil Defense wins NFPA global safety award
Abu Dhabi authority receives 2025 NFPA award for safety strategy
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has announced that the Abu Dhabi Civil Defense Authority (ADCDA) has received the 2025 NFPA Fire & Life Safety Ecosystem Global Influencer Award.
The award was presented during the NFPA Stars at Night gala on 15 June 2025, held as part of the NFPA Conference & Expo in Las Vegas.
According to the NFPA, the award recognises individuals and organisations who support public safety through sustained use of the NFPA Fire & Life Safety Ecosystem framework.
The NFPA explained that ADCDA was selected for its long-term investment in capacity-building, training, and risk management across the United Arab Emirates.
The award follows a three-year programme between ADCDA and NFPA which supports engineers, inspectors, and hazardous materials specialists through advanced certification training.
Certification programme builds specialist capacity
The NFPA stated that the Abu Dhabi Civil Defense Authority was recognised in part for its partnership with NFPA to develop a three-year certification initiative.
The programme trains engineers, inspectors, and hazardous materials professionals using NFPA technical guidance.
The initiative is intended to improve operational knowledge and ensure technical expertise across a range of roles in the UAE fire safety sector.
NFPA President and CEO Jim Pauley said: “Abu Dhabi Civil Defense Authority has a forward-thinking leadership that is building a strategy around all elements of the Fire & Life Safety Ecosystem to achieve real-world results.
“”Their commitment to innovation, training, and outreach has contributed to measurable gains in public safety, including a reported 64 percent reduction in fire deaths per 100,000 people since 2021.”
ADCDA’s approach, the NFPA added, demonstrates a coordinated safety model that extends beyond reactive measures into proactive workforce development.
Leadership approach praised by NFPA
NFPA stated that ADCDA was selected based on its system-level approach to implementing the Fire & Life Safety Ecosystem.
The framework consists of eight connected areas that must function together to prevent harm and protect communities.
These include policy development, risk awareness, education, emergency response, investment in safety infrastructure, and enforcement.
NFPA highlighted that ADCDA’s efforts span these areas and extend beyond individual projects or campaigns.
The authority was noted as a model of how public organisations can integrate ecosystem principles into day-to-day fire safety operations.
NFPA explained that this model of implementation has led to quantifiable outcomes, including reductions in incident severity and improved emergency preparedness.
Abu Dhabi’s national and international impact
According to the NFPA, ADCDA’s recognition reflects its efforts not only within Abu Dhabi but across the UAE.
The NFPA stated that the authority’s influence on civil protection practice includes regional knowledge-sharing, training engagement, and regulation development.
Brigadier General Salem Abdulla Al Dhaheri, Director General of the Abu Dhabi Civil Defense Authority, said: “We are deeply honored to receive the 2025 NFPA Fire & Life Safety Ecosystem Global Influencer Award.
“Our strategic collaboration with NFPA has been vital in elevating our workforce capabilities and fostering a holistic safety ecosystem across the emirate of Abu Dhabi.
“As we continue to lead with innovation and resilience, we reaffirm our dedication to safeguarding our communities and positioning the UAE as a global benchmark for excellence in safety and emergency response.”
NFPA noted that ADCDA’s reach extends across multiple government and operational tiers, including inspection, certification, and emergency coordination.
Future collaboration and industry recognition
The NFPA stated that ADCDA’s approach offers a working example of how international partnerships can reinforce national safety strategies.
This includes joint training, standard development, and practical guidance for civil protection teams.
The NFPA Fire & Life Safety Ecosystem Global Influencer Award was established in 2024 to recognise those who actively advance safety through the application of ecosystem principles.
The NFPA explained that the award is intended to encourage system-wide thinking and practical action in support of public safety.
The 2025 edition was presented at the NFPA’s main industry event, attended by international delegates and hosted in Las Vegas.
ADCDA’s selection marks the first Middle East recipient of the annual award.
Abu Dhabi Civil Defense wins NFPA global safety award: Summary
The NFPA has awarded the Abu Dhabi Civil Defense Authority the 2025 Fire & Life Safety Ecosystem Global Influencer Award.
The award was presented on 15 June during the NFPA Conference & Expo in Las Vegas.
ADCDA was recognised for its collaboration with NFPA on a three-year certification programme.
The programme provides advanced training to engineers, inspectors, and hazardous materials specialists.
NFPA stated that ADCDA’s leadership has implemented a comprehensive safety strategy aligned with its eight-part ecosystem framework.
NFPA President and CEO Jim Pauley said the authority’s approach contributed to a 64 percent drop in fire deaths per 100,000 people since 2021.
Brigadier General Salem Abdulla Al Dhaheri accepted the award on behalf of ADCDA.
The Fire & Life Safety Ecosystem Global Influencer Award was created in 2024.
ADCDA is the first Middle East organisation to receive the award.
The award recognises long-term contributions to fire and life safety through strategic implementation.
NFPA recognises global leaders in fire protection at 2025 awards gala
NFPA awards recognise global fire and life safety achievements
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) presented a range of awards to individuals and organisations for contributions to fire, electrical and life safety at its 2025 Conference & Expo.
According to NFPA, the awards ceremony took place during the Stars at Night gala on 15 June in Las Vegas.
NFPA presented the Fire Protection Research Foundation Medal to the WUI-NITY 4 project team, which developed a wildfire evacuation modelling tool designed to connect research with real-world application.
The Harry C. Bigglestone Award was given posthumously to Professors Howard R. Baum and James G. Quintiere for their paper, The Emmons Problem Revisited. NFPA said the $5,000 prize was donated to the University of Maryland’s Fire Protection Engineering Program.
The organisation also recognised education, inspection and enforcement leaders with annual awards.
Awards for educators, inspectors and enforcement leaders
NFPA reported that Shawneri Guzman of Washington State received the 2025 Fire and Life Safety Educator of the Year Award.
Guzman was recognised for her community-based public safety education and the use of NFPA resources in her programming.
Robert Fahey of Wisconsin received the 2025 Electrical Inspector of the Year Award for his long-term service in inspection, code compliance and professional training.
NFPA said Chief Tommy Demopoulos of Tamarac Fire Rescue, Florida, received the 2025 Fire Marshal of the Year Award.
The award highlighted Demopoulos’s educational approach to code enforcement and partnerships with local businesses.
International recognition for lifetime service and advocacy
NFPA awarded the 2025 Distinguished Service Award to Shmuel Netanel of Israel.
It stated that Netanel was recognised for his engineering work and efforts to expand NFPA standards use in the Middle East.
The 2025 James M. Shannon Advocacy Medal was presented to Amy Acton.
NFPA cited Acton’s work supporting burn survivors and shaping national safety policies as reasons for her selection.
Dr Marcelo Hirschler received the 2025 Standards Medal.
The award recognises Hirschler’s decades of leadership in the NFPA standards process and technical input across multiple committees.
Awards for volunteer service and international ecosystem impact
NFPA awarded Donald R. Cook the 2025 Richard G. Biermann Award.
According to NFPA, Cook was honoured for his voluntary contributions to the National Electrical Code and NFPA governance.
The 2025 Fire & Life Safety Ecosystem Global Influencer Award was presented to the Abu Dhabi Civil Defense Authority.
NFPA explained that the award recognised system-level changes implemented by the authority that led to measurable safety improvements across the United Arab Emirates.
Committee Service and Special Achievement Awards also presented
Alongside the named awards, NFPA also recognised various individuals with Committee Service Awards and Special Achievement Awards.
According to the organisation, these were presented to volunteers for their technical contributions and leadership on NFPA code committees.
Full information, including images of award recipients and detailed citations, is available on the NFPA Awards webpage.
NFPA recognises global leaders in fire protection at 2025 awards gala: Summary
The National Fire Protection Association held its Stars at Night awards gala on 15 June 2025.
The event took place during the NFPA Conference & Expo in Las Vegas.
NFPA presented the Fire Protection Research Foundation Medal to the WUI-NITY 4 project team.
The Harry C. Bigglestone Award was awarded posthumously to Professors Howard R. Baum and James G. Quintiere.
The 2025 Fire and Life Safety Educator of the Year was Shawneri Guzman of Washington State.
Robert Fahey of Wisconsin received the 2025 Electrical Inspector of the Year Award.
The 2025 Fire Marshal of the Year Award was presented to Chief Tommy Demopoulos of Florida.
Shmuel Netanel of Israel received the 2025 Distinguished Service Award.
Amy Acton received the 2025 James M. Shannon Advocacy Medal.
Dr Marcelo Hirschler received the 2025 Standards Medal.
Donald R. Cook received the 2025 Richard G. Biermann Award.
The Abu Dhabi Civil Defense Authority received the 2025 Fire & Life Safety Ecosystem Global Influencer Award.
NFPA also presented Committee Service and Special Achievement Awards.
Most Americans don’t know who creates safety standards – NFPA warns of rising risks
NFPA campaign highlights public role in protecting safety standards
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has launched a nationwide campaign warning that the development of US safety standards is increasingly at risk.
According to NFPA, the campaign – titled A Code for Every Moment – aims to improve public understanding of how fire and life safety codes are developed and to protect the independent system behind them.
NFPA said the public awareness campaign is one of the largest it has ever undertaken in its 125-year history.
The association reported that recent research revealed widespread misunderstanding among Americans, with most incorrectly believing that government agencies, rather than private organisations, create safety standards.
NFPA stated that this misunderstanding is contributing to efforts by special interest groups to weaken the independent standards development process.
Public misunderstanding of safety standards process identified
NFPA explained that safety codes affect many aspects of everyday life, including electrical systems, building exits, and fire protection.
The association warned that the current system of code development is vulnerable to misuse and misrepresentation, largely due to public misunderstanding.
The research cited by NFPA showed that many Americans are unaware of how standards are created, and that this lack of knowledge has allowed misinformation and private interests to gain influence.
NFPA also reported that some for-profit companies are using these codes without compensating their developers, undermining the sustainability of the system.
Despite this, NFPA stated that when people are informed of the independent, consensus-based process used to create safety standards, they tend to support protecting that process.
NFPA calls for legislative support through Pro Codes Act
NFPA has urged support for the Pro Codes Act, a piece of federal legislation intended to preserve the copyright protections that standards developers rely on.
The organisation said the legislation would also ensure that any standards referenced in public law are available for free viewing on public websites.
NFPA explained that maintaining copyright is essential to the ability of independent bodies to create and update standards used in construction, infrastructure and fire safety.
Jim Pauley, President and CEO of NFPA, said: “The codes and standards development system has been one of the most successful public-private partnerships in history – safeguarding countless lives, creating economic growth and saving billions of taxpayer dollars.
“We can all do more to protect the safety standards that protect us.
“Whether you’re a policymaker, professional, or simply someone who cares about public safety, your voice matters.”
President and CEO highlights campaign aims and importance
Pauley explained the motivation behind the new campaign.
He said: “Safety doesn’t happen by chance.
“We’ve spent more than a century developing codes and standards that safeguard lives, enable innovation, and save billions in taxpayer dollars.
“But we must do more to help people understand how this essential system works, and why it must be protected.”
NFPA added that A Code for Every Moment is designed to connect everyday safety with the code infrastructure that supports it.
The campaign includes educational outreach aimed at both the public and policymakers.
NFPA encouraged people to visit DontChanceSafety.org to find out more about how to engage with the campaign and support the protection of independent safety standards.
Copyright, compensation and accessibility central to NFPA’s message
According to NFPA, the risk to safety codes does not come only from public misunderstanding, but also from the commercial use of codes without financial support for their creators.
The association reported that companies using safety standards without compensation weaken the system’s ability to function and update its guidance.
It said this issue is further compounded by misinformation campaigns seeking to reframe code development as a governmental rather than private and collaborative effort.
The organisation reiterated that copyright protections are necessary to keep safety standards viable.
It stated that making standards freely viewable while retaining copyright protections is one way to balance public access with the need to support independent code development.
NFPA campaign highlights public role in protecting safety standards: Summary
The National Fire Protection Association has launched a new campaign titled A Code for Every Moment.
The campaign seeks to educate the public and policymakers about how safety standards are developed in the United States.
NFPA reported that most Americans believe safety standards are created by government agencies.
In fact, they are developed by independent organisations like NFPA through a consensus process.
NFPA warned that this misunderstanding has led to misuse, underfunding, and legal challenges to the standards system.
The organisation urged support for the Pro Codes Act, which would protect copyright for standards developers.
The legislation would also require referenced standards to be viewable for free on public websites.
NFPA President and CEO Jim Pauley said that the system must be better understood and defended.
NFPA stated that for-profit companies are using standards without compensation, which threatens the viability of the current model.
The campaign includes public outreach and encourages people to visit DontChanceSafety.org to get involved.