Building Trust in AI for the Modern Fireground

Thursday, December 11, 2025

10:40 AM - 11:40 AM CT

Location: Grand Ballroom

Co-Presenter(s)

Ryan Falkenstein-Smith, PhD

Mechanical Engineering
National Institute of Standards and Technology
Gaithersburg, Maryland
Chad Crouse, MS

Battalion Chief
Saint Lucie County Fire District
Port Saint Lucie, Florida
Christopher Sampl, MPA, CFO, CEMSO, CTO, FM

Battalion Chief
Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department
Fairfax, Virginia
Clinton Smith

CTO
Next G Connect
Warwick, New York
David Little

President/CEO (Retired)
ISG INFRASYS Thermal Imaging

This workshop brings together members of the AI Tech Council Sub-Group to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming electronic safety equipment in the fire service. Participants will discuss current applications, emerging challenges, and considerations for integrating AI into tool and device design. Through open discussion and audience surveys, the session will identify key factors that influence safety, performance, and innovation. Insights from the team behind NIST SP1500-29 will help guide the development of standards to ensure AI-driven technologies are safe, reliable, and forward-looking.