By Blake Jackson
The University of Missouri Extension’s Fire and Rescue Training Institute recently held the 22nd Annual Missouri Emergency Services Instructor Conference at the Lake of the Ozarks.
The three-day event brought together more than 150 instructors and supervisory leaders for advanced professional development tailored to those responsible for training emergency responders across the state. Participants represented 49 Missouri counties, along with two attendees from outside the state.
According to Tracy Gray, MU FRTI educational program coordinator, the conference continues to be the leading training event for emergency services instructors and public fire educators, offering updated strategies, teaching tools, and methods that participants can take back to their departments.
One attendee emphasized the event’s value, noting, “This conference gets better every year,” and adding, “The networking alone is worth the trip but walking away with new ideas and recognition from peers-that’s priceless.”
The 2025 Instructor Excellence Awards were also announced during the conference. Lynn Morgan of Republic, Missouri, was named Instructor of the Year. “Lynn’s passion, preparation, and impact on students earned him this well-deserved honor,” Gray said.
Additionally, MU FRTI recognized 26 instructors with Perfect 4.0 Awards for earning flawless student evaluations in their courses.
The 23rd annual conference is scheduled for Nov. 6-8, 2026.
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Categories: Missouri, General