To the Members of the Firestop Contractor International Association,
As we embark on this new year, I am thrilled to share my enthusiasm and vision for the Firestop Contractor International Association (FCIA) and the exciting strides we are poised to make in 2025. Building upon our strong foundation and the collective dedication of our members, we are committed to further solidifying FCIA's position as the leading voice and resource for Specialty Firestop Contractors worldwide.
Specialty Inspection Advocacy and Standards Development:
The FCIA recognizes the direct correlation between quality firestop inspections and Specialty Firestop Contractors. We also recognize that the current inspection standard may be overdue for some updates. To better address both of these concerns, we have revamped the Inspection Committee with a dual-focus on Advocacy AND Standards.
We believe educating AHJs on best practices for inspections will continue to be the most effective way to help raise the bar for professional firestop system installations, and we believe FCIA is best positioned to provide this education. Further, the two ASTM Standards (ASTM E2174 and E2393) have been around for some time now. The Inspection Committee is putting years of real-world experience towards a new initiative to update the Inspection Standards to modern construction practices.
Strengthening Industry Collaboration:
Collaboration is the cornerstone of our success. FCIA is dedicated to fostering stronger connections within the firestop community and beyond. Our initiatives in 2025 will focus on:
- Strategic Partnerships: We will forge new alliances with key organizations in the building and construction industry, including Contractors, Engineers, Inspectors, and like-minded Associations. Growing these relationships, we believe will benefit the entire Passive Life Safety Industry for years to come.
- Manufacturers: The FCIA felt more support than ever from our Manufacturer Partners in 2024. They were a huge factor in bolstering our Conference programming with hands-on training and educating our members on products and systems. We look forward to working closely with them in 2025, especially as we advocate together on the upcoming Code and Standards cycles.
Growing International:
Abhishek Chhabra, FCIA Director, International Initiatives, was seen all over digital communities spreading the word of Passive Fire Protection and bringing together key decision makers and influencers in the construction community. This year begins with the FCIA-NFCA PasFiPro ’25 Doha and Dubai events that will be elevated in attendance and scope thanks to Abhi’s tireless efforts to connect folks in the passive life safety world. Beyond the Middle East, the FCIA has started making inroads in Latin America, Australia, the UK, and more.
I am confident that 2025 will be a year of remarkable progress for FCIA and its members. With your continued support and active participation, we will elevate the firestop industry to new heights and make our buildings safer for all.
Sincerely,
Gus Mancini, 2025 FCIA Board President
Firestop Contractors International Association