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In this episode, hosts Scott Kuhlman and Chasity Owens deliver another compelling installment from the International Association of Arson Investigators (IAAI) training conference. Recording remotely while Scott teaches at the Fire Investigator Academy in Fresno, the duo presents an illuminating conversation with Rick and Cassandra Jones, two passionate advocates for fire investigation certification and training excellence.

Rick Jones shares his journey from law enforcement canine handler to IAAI board member and eventual president during the challenging COVID-19 period, where he helped pivot the organization to remote training delivery. His wife Cassandra, with her educational background in English, brings her expertise in report writing and program development to their shared mission of elevating industry standards. Together, they've built a successful fire investigation company while dedicating countless volunteer hours to improving certification programs and training quality across the field.

The conversation centers on the critical importance of obtaining professional certifications, particularly the Evidence Collection Technician (ECT) program. The Joneses announce significant updates to certification requirements, including the elimination of mandatory evidence collection numbers in favor of training-based qualifications and the addition of five new evidence categories specifically designed for private-side investigators. These changes address long-standing concerns from investigators who participate in evidence collection but may not physically handle items themselves, making certifications more accessible while maintaining rigorous standards.

Rick and Cassandra emphasize that certifications serve as third-party validation of an investigator's competency, going beyond the minimum requirements of NFPA 1033 to include practical demonstrations and courtroom testimony experience. They detail the upcoming alignment of all IAAI certifications to five-year renewal cycles, streamlining the process for investigators while ensuring continued professional development. The couple's commitment extends to personally answering questions from members, with Rick providing his direct phone number and encouraging investigators at all levels to reach out for guidance.

The episode also highlights the Joneses' innovative internship program, where university students pursuing fire investigation degrees spend 5-7 weeks living and working with their company, gaining invaluable real-world experience. These stories, including humorous accounts of interns learning the realities of hands-and-knees scene processing, demonstrate their dedication to nurturing the next generation of fire investigators.

Scott and Chasity wrap up with their popular segments, including "We Train Frequently" spotlighting upcoming conferences in Arizona and Georgia, and "Can You Use It In A Sentence" continuing their educational series on fire investigation terminology. The hosts also address listener questions about accessing Science Advisory Work Group meetings, explaining the confidential nature of these peer review sessions while encouraging participation in local chapters.

This episode reinforces the podcast's mission of connecting the fire investigation community through shared knowledge and professional development opportunities, showcasing how industry leaders like Rick and Cassandra Jones are working tirelessly to advance the field through improved training and certifica

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