Join VAFR

First Responder Symposium

 

2026 Virginia First Responder Symposium

1st Annual Virginia First Responder Symposium

Training • Advocacy • Community
June 12–21, 2026
Blacksburg, VA
Stronger Together. Always Ready.
The Inn at Virginia Tech & Skelton Conference Center
Join us for ten days of immersive training across multiple disciplines, hands-on skills labs, leadership sessions, evening programs, and networking. Off-site training occurs at partner agencies across Blacksburg and Christiansburg.

For the latest updates on hotels, courses, events, and everything happening during this year’s Symposium, click the symposium app quick link above.

About the Symposium

The Virginia First Responder Symposium brings together responders from across the Commonwealth for education, collaboration, and professional growth. This event strengthens the first responder community through high-quality instruction, leadership development, and shared experience.
Multi-Discipline Training
Educational offerings designed for EMS, fire, law enforcement, and other public safety disciplines.
Hands-On Skills Labs
Practical learning through skill stations, field scenarios, and off-site training opportunities.
Leadership & Networking
Connect with peers, instructors, and leaders from across Virginia’s first responder community.

Event Highlights

Expanded Disciplines
Training opportunities for EMS, fire, law enforcement, leadership, and additional public safety disciplines.
Ten Days of Learning
Multiple days of classroom education, hands-on instruction, evening programs, and networking opportunities.
Regional Training Partners
Off-site sessions and partner agency support throughout Blacksburg and Christiansburg strengthen the overall experience.

Mac McGuire Youth Scholarship

Anonymous donors are funding five scholarships of up to $400 each to help attendees participate in the
Virginia First Responder Symposium in Blacksburg, June 12–21, 2026.
These scholarships are being offered in honor of VAFR Past President and Life Member Mac McGuire.

Scholarship Overview

These scholarships are intended to support eligible young responders attending the Symposium. Reimbursement will be provided by VAFR after the event based on submitted receipts for approved expenses.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Applicants must not have reached their 22nd birthday before May 1, 2026.
  • Applicants must be a member of an agency that is a current member of VAFR.
  • Applicants must register for Virginia First Responder Symposium classes before the registration deadline.
  • Applicants will be notified by May 10, 2026, if approved.

Eligible Reimbursement Expenses

  • Symposium registration
  • Hotel room
  • Meals, up to $40 per day
  • Travel, up to $50 total

Important: Scholarship funds are reimbursed after the Symposium upon submission of receipts for approved expenses.