Virginia Association of First Responders Hosts 1st Annual Virginia First Responder Symposium
March 3, 2026
Oilville, Va. — The Virginia Association of First Responders will host the 1st Annual Virginia First Responder Symposium in Blacksburg, Virginia from June 12–21, 2026, bringing together public safety professionals from across the Commonwealth for nine days of specialized training and professional development.
The Symposium represents a major evolution in the organization’s training programs by bringing together professionals in EMS, fire, law enforcement, telecommunications, mental health and public safety chaplaincy.
“We recognize that no single discipline responds alone and that our greatest strengths lie in working together as one team,” said Kevin Dillard, Chair of the Virginia First Responder Symposium.
The event builds upon more than 50 years of training tradition previously known as Rescue College, which has long served EMS providers and rescue squads across Virginia.
The 2026 Symposium introduces nine specialized training tracks, including:
• EMS
• Pediatric Care
• Law Enforcement
• Fire & Hazmat
• Technical Rescue
• Leadership & Administration
• Mental Health
• Telecommunications
• Public Safety Chaplaincy
Training will take place at the Virginia Tech and Skelton Conference Center, as well as multiple training locations throughout the Blacksburg region.
Registration for the Symposium is open March 1 through May 15, and thanks to grant funding the first 400 VAFR members who register will receive free registration.
For details about the Virginia First Responder Symposium or to register, visit www.vafr.org.
Media Contacts
Sara Hunt
Public Relations Coordinator
[email protected]
804-994-1120
Edward “Bubby” Bish Jr.
Executive Director
[email protected]
804-731-1131