The Texas State Affordable Housing Corporation (TSAHC) is a 501C3 that was created and designed to help our heroes in the community with homeownership. Firefighters, EMS personnel, police, teachers, and veterans all qualify based on profession. It provides down payment and grant assistance toward a purchase of a home anywhere in Texas. It may also include a Mortgage Credit Certificate. For information, check with a mortgage professional for guidance. Visit TSAHC.ORG or reach to me stacylynn@highlandsmortgage.com for more information.

Twenty years ago, the Firefighter Life Safety Initiatives and NFFF Advocate Program were created to reduce preventable line-of-duty deaths and injuries. Passionate volunteers from all ranks and departments drive our mission forward.

Our presence across the nation is more important than ever as today’s firefighters face growing challenges. We need dedicated advocates in every state and U.S. territory! YOU can help us impact survival and improve the fire service.

Benefits of being an NFFF Adocate include:
Delivery Experience: Gain confidence in communication, public speaking, and adult education.
Networking: Build strong networks with individuals inside and outside your organization.
Personal Growth: Learn from forward thinking fire service leaders, enhance critical thinking, and boost your professional profile.

Advocates will be expected to represent their state in the promotion, presentation, and awareness of Firefighters Life Safety Initiatives. They will serve as the eyes and ears of the Firefighter Life Safety Initiatives Program for their state.

To apply and for more information visit the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation.

Firefighters recognize that live fire training is where theory meets reality. Sending personnel to a combination Live Fire Instructor and Live Fire Instructor-in-Charge class ensures they not only understand the technical aspects of fire behavior but also learn how to manage training environments safely and effectively. These classes teach participants to control variables, maintain compliance with NFPA standards, and prioritize safety for every trainee. Without this advanced preparation, even well-intentioned drills can become hazardous, putting both instructors and students at risk.

Beyond safety, these courses develop leadership and decision-making skills under pressure. When firefighters train to be instructors and instructors-in-charge, they gain the ability to design realistic scenarios, manage resources, and coordinate teams with precision. This investment creates a ripple effect: better-trained instructors produce better-trained firefighters, which ultimately strengthens operational readiness and public trust. By sending personnel to these classes, the department improves training quality, safeguards lives, and elevates the professionalism of the entire organization.

Contact TEEX Public Sector Training for the next available classes or to discuss hosting a class.

TCFP offers “regional meetings” throughout the year in a variety of locations around the state. These meetings are opportunities for members of nearby fire departments and other regulated entities to meet some of our staff in person. We want to answer your questions, listen to your concerns, and give timely updates related to commission news. In addition, through a partnership with TEEX, CE will be awarded for your attendance at these meetings. 

For a list of all upcoming meeting dates, visit the Regional Meetings webpage.

For course descriptions and current schedule, location, and registration information, see the individual course pages on the TEEX website.

Online continuing education is a powerful tool that helps fire departments stay mission-ready while supporting professional growth. It offers flexible, cost-effective access to high-quality training that fits around demanding schedules and limited budgets. By delivering standardized, up-to-date content aligned with national best practices, online learning ensures firefighters are equipped with the latest knowledge and tactics. It also enables rapid response to emerging threats and evolving standards, while fostering career advancement and retention through accessible development opportunities. Investing in online education is an investment in safer communities and a stronger fire service.
 
The Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service would like to better understand how fire chiefs, firefighters, and department leaders utilize online continuing education as a tool for training and education. We would invite fire service leaders who want to help shape the future of training programs to complete this short survey:  https://teex.link/CEsurvey
 
Your input will help ensure they remain relevant, accessible, and responsive to the evolving demands of the fire service. Whether you're a seasoned chief or a new recruit, your voice matters. This is your opportunity to help us better support your department’s mission, your professional growth, and the safety of the communities you serve. Thank you for your time and commitment to excellence in fire service education.