Rochelle Park, NJ (May 12, 2025) — David Rhodes, Education Director of FDIC International and Editor in Chief of Fire Engineering, is proud to announce the appointment of Acting District Chief Brent Brooks of Toronto, Ontario Fire Services to the FDIC Advisory Board.

“With over three decades of service, Brent brings unparalleled expertise in high-rise operations and a global perspective that aligns perfectly with the mission of FDIC,” said Rhodes. “His leadership and commitment to advancing firefighter safety and occupant survival strategies make him a tremendous asset to our advisory team.”

Chief Brooks has dedicated much of his career to research, development, and instruction in complex fireground operations, with a strong emphasis on high-rise firefighting. A frequent international lecturer, author, and long-time FDIC instructor, Brooks has donated his time and knowledge to over 100 fire departments worldwide. He currently serves on several high-level committees and advisory groups, including the Canadian chapter of the Institution of Fire Engineers and the Council of Tall Buildings. He also represents Canada on the T70 Tall Building Safety Committee based in London.

His addition to the FDIC Advisory Board will help strengthen the conference’s commitment to innovative, evidence-based education for today’s and tomorrow’s fire service leaders.

About FDIC International:
FDIC International is the leading annual event for 37,000+ fire and rescue professionals from around the world. FDIC offers world-class hands-on training and education from renowned instructors. The exhibit hall boasts over 800 exhibitors showcasing innovative products and services. The FDIC experience is more than your traditional trade show; it’s about celebrating camaraderie and coming together to learn and share experiences. FDIC International is owned by Clarion Events, Inc. Clarion’s Fire & Rescue Group maintains its long-standing mission to “Train and Inform the Fire & EMS Industry” through FDIC International, leading media outlets Fire Engineering, Fire Apparatus and Emergency Equipment, Firefighter Nation and JEMS, along with Fire Engineering Books and online learning platform Fire Engineering Training and JEMS Training. Clarion Fire & Rescue holds itself to the strictest standards, ensuring that its service to the first responders equals the industry’s tireless service to all of us. For more information, visit www.fdic.com.

For inquiries, please contact: 
Sarah Domzalski, Senior Marketing Manager 
sarah.domzalski@clarionevents.com