President’s Message

Since fire investigation has been an ever-evolving profession, change has always been part of it.  A greater embrace of science in the 1990’s led to an evolution in the application of fire dynamics to fire investigation.   We are now in the midst of another evolution where fire investigation is embraced, by practitioners and those who are not, as a forensic science.  This means our expertise, methodologies, and analyses are all under scrutiny.

The recent certification and training mandates in NFPA 1033 and through NYS DHSES speak to this evolution.  A massive list of requisite scientific knowledge has been unleashed in the latest edition of NFPA 1033, and guidance in the latest edition of NFPA 921 on fire pattern analysis, the cornerstone of our work, has radically changed.  And NFPA 1321 (the new standard for the organization and management of Fire Investigation Units), is being finalized soon.  

That is why, now more than ever, you should maintain your Chapter membership and enjoy the unique and cutting-edge training we offer.  Our training topics and speakers provide instruction on current and evolving issues of the day.  We are constantly engaged with organizations like IAAI and NFPA, tracking developments, to ensure our Chapter is prepared to help you respond to changing professional requirements.  

Our Chapter offers discounted training to its members on cutting edge topics such as exploiting devices attached to the internet, or trial and deposition preparation.  We sponsor IAAI programs such as the Evidence Collection Technician practicum and the Expert Witness Testimony courses to ensure you can achieve those critical certifications.  We bring you invaluable networking opportunities at our events and provide you with a magazine that contains articles on things like accreditation, health and safety, and building state of the art FIU vehicles.

With over 600 members across New York state, our Chapter provides a great platform to maintain your professional credentials, to evolve with the profession, and to maintain contacts with those you work with day in and day out.  If you are a member, we thank you for being a part of our organization.  If you are not a member, please consider joining (trust me, it’s worth it!).  Take care, stay healthy and stay safe!

Dixon Robin, IAAI-CFI, IAAI-CI

President, NYS IAAI