The Missing Presence: "Nine Sisters" at the 7th Annual Fire Service Psychology Association Conference

The 7th Annual Conference of the Fire Service Psychology Association (FSPA), held on October 3-4, 2024, in Washington, D.C. was a significant event aimed at bridging the gap between professional psychology and the fire service. However, the absence of the "Nine Sisters" – the major fire service organizations – was a notable and concerning issue.

Fire Department Safety Officers Association (FDSOA), International Association of Black Professional Firefighters (IABPF); International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC), International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), International Society of Fire Service Instructors (ISFSI), National Association of Hispanic Firefighters (NAHF), National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF), National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC).

The "Nine Sisters" are renowned for their leadership and influence within the fire service community. Their participation in such conferences is crucial for sharing insights, best practices, and fostering collaboration. The lack of their presence at this year's conference, which for many was "in their backyard," raises questions about the current state of engagement and support for fire service psychology.

The conference brought together fire service leaders, psychologists, peer support team members, and masters-level clinicians to discuss the latest research and best practices in fire service psychology. FSPA's goal is to develop a field of fire service psychology--that's recognized by the American Psychological Association (APA), similar to those for law enforcement and military services. The absence of the "Nine Sisters" meant missing out on valuable contributions from these key players.

One possible reason for their absence could be a lack of awareness or understanding of the importance of fire service psychology. It's essential for these organizations to recognize the mental health challenges faced by firefighters and the need for specialized psychological support. Another reason might be competing priorities or logistical issues that prevented their participation.

The impact of their absence was felt throughout the conference. Attendees expressed disappointment and concern about the future of fire service psychology without the active involvement of these major organizations. The "Nine Sisters" have the resources and influence to drive significant change in this field--one being to get funding for university-level research to clearly identify psychological needs of firefighters and officer, and their absence was a missed opportunity for progress.

FSPA's Mission Statement: Develop the scientific study and application of professional psychology to meet the needs of the fire service.

Moving forward, it's crucial for the "Nine Sisters" to engage with the Fire Service Psychology Association and emphasize the importance of their participation. Building stronger relationships and fostering a sense of shared responsibility can help ensure that future conferences are more inclusive and impactful.

The lack of attendance from the "Nine Sisters" at the 7th Annual Conference of the Fire Service Psychology Association highlights a gap that needs to be addressed. Their involvement is vital for the growth and recognition of fire service psychology. It's time for these organizations to step up and play an activevement of these major organizations. The "Nine Sisters" have the resources and influence to drive significant change in this field--one being to get funding for university-level research to clearly identify psychological needs of firefighters and officer, and their absence was a missed opportunity for progress.

FSPA's Mission Statement: Develop the scientific study and application of professional psychology to meet the needs of the fire service.

Moving forward, it's crucial for the "Nine Sisters" to engage with the Fire Service Psychology Association and emphasize the importance of their participation. Building stronger relationships and fostering a sense of shared responsibility can help ensure that future conferences are more inclusive and impactful.

The lack of attendance from the "Nine Sisters" at the 7th Annual Conference of the Fire Service Psychology Association highlights a gap that needs to be addressed. Their involvement is vital for the growth and recognition of fire service psychology. It's time for these organizations to step up and play an active role in supporting the mental health and well-being of firefighters and the fire service community as a whole. role in supporting the mental health and well-being of firefighters and the fire service community as a whole.