HazSim and Hazmat Nation hosted its 5th annual networking event at IAFC’s hazmat conference and raised money for the Firefighter Cancer Support Network.
Hazmat Nation networking event
More than 200 hazmat professionals attended the fifth annual Hazmat Nation networking event last week in Baltimore in conjunction with the International Association of Fire Chiefs’ hazmat conference.
“This gathering has been a great way for hazmat professionals to meet in a relaxed setting, make new connections, and share their trials, tribulations, and success with those working through similar issues,” said Phil Ambrose, inventor, and CEO of HazSim. “This year, we wanted to take it a step further.”
Firefighter Cancer Support Network
Hazmat Nation and HazSim used the event to raise money for the Firefighter Cancer Support Network
Hazmat Nation and HazSim used the event to raise money for the Firefighter Cancer Support Network. The pairing made sense as responder cancer and hazmat are so close, and unfortunately, linked.
“We are grateful, though not surprised, by how well received the fundraiser was by hazmat professionals,” Ambrose said. “We were testing the waters this year, to make the fundraising a bigger part of our event next year and in the years to come. We are strong believers in the work and mission of FCSN, and it appears the hazmat community is as well.”
Support, Training, And Guidance
FCSN, a national nonprofit with more than 250 volunteers nationwide, has been serving firefighters battling cancer since 2005.
“FCSN is grateful for the support of HazSim and Hazmat Nation to help our mission, to assist firefighters and EMS providers and their immediate families diagnosed with cancer by providing critical support, training, and guidance,” said Bryan Frieders, President of FCSN and retired fire chief of the Pasadena Fire Department in California.
badge-to-badge mentorship program
The key sponsors include Kappler, First Line Technology, First Call Environmental, and All Safe Industries
“Their meaningful contribution helps us deliver our free toolboxes and unique badge-to-badge mentorship program to firefighters and cancer prevention education programs nationwide.”
Much of the event’s success is thanks to the corporate partners whose sponsorship allowed free food, drinks, a swag bag, and a memorable T-shirt. The key sponsors include Kappler, First Line Technology, First Call Environmental, and All Safe Industries, who offered bourbon-tasting flights from its home state of Kentucky.
Hazmat response and training
“Our sponsors made all the difference in the world in making this a success,” Ambrose said. “We look forward to furthering our partnerships with them as this event grows in scope and purpose in the coming years.”
“Hazmat response and training improves when hazmat professionals can build bonds and share their knowledge,” Ambrose said. This annual event and the daily work at Hazmat Nation are dedicated to building those bonds.
