2026 Maryland Weekend at the National Fire Academy

Join fire service personnel from around the state at the National Fire Academy in Emmitsburg for Maryland Weekend, February 21 & 22, 2026.

EXPLORE ENGAGING TOPICS:

Command and Control for the Company Officer

Executive Skills Series: Ethical Leadership

Emergency Response to Terrorism: Strategic Considerations

Leadership in Supervision: Creating Environments for Professional Growth and more!

REGISTRATION

Open to individuals in fire, rescue, hazardous materials, or Emergency Medical Services (EMS) who are at least 18 years old.

Notification of acceptance and class assignment will be emailed from netc-admissnotifications@fema.dhs.gov approximately two (2) weeks after registration closes.

If you are unable to attend after being accepted, contact Todd Dyche at tdyche@umd.edu or (301) 729-0431.

Registration closes Monday, January 5, 2026.

No substitutions or changes will be accepted after January 12, 2026.

FEES

Lodging is FREE for members of emergency services organizations.

Federal fire/rescue/EMS personnel are required to pay for their lodging.

Meal fees are managed by Guest Services, the exclusive food provider at the National Fire Academy (NFA).

- All attendees must purchase a meal ticket via the QR code.

- Once on the Guest Services site, select “Start Your Order”.

- Choose the “Weekend Course” package, which covers meals from Friday dinner through Sunday lunch.

- Without a meal ticket, you will not be allowed to enter the cafeteria.

- A minimum number of ticket sales is required for food service to be provided.

For questions or concerns about meal options, prices, or dietary needs, contact Guest Services directly (information is available on their website).

HOW TO APPLY

Complete the MFRI Application (below).

Rank your course preferences (1 through 6) in the provided boxes.

Ensure all sections are complete, including:

- Your FEMA SID number (note: obtain one at: www.usfa.fema.gov/nfa/about/attend/ftin.shtm)

- An original signature from your department chief.

- Submit the completed and signed application to WMRTC-MFRI as indicated on the form.

- Class assignments are made on a first-come, first-served basis.

- Purchase your weekend meal ticket by contacting Guest Services by using the QR code.

- Incomplete or unsigned applications will be returned and applicant seating denied.

REGISTRATION CLOSES JANUARY 5, 2026. CHECK-IN AT NFA

• Check-in is on Friday, February 20, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

• A valid Real ID is required to enter the National Fire Academy campus.

• Orientation is MANDATORY and begins at 7:30 p.m. on February 20. For questions contact Todd Dyche at tdyche@umd.edu or (301) 729-0431.

STUDENT DRESS CODE

• A professional appearance is expected at all times.

• Not permitted in classrooms, auditoriums, or dining halls:

- Athletic clothing

- Caps or hats

- Flip flops, slides, or sandals

FYI: Informal attire, including t-shirts, shorts, tank tops, vented shirts, and cut-offs, is allowed ONLY during after-hours leisure time.

2026 NFA Application
Please send in the application with your course selections.

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