President’s Welcome

Welcome to the International Association of Arson Investigators, Inc. (“IAAI”).

Since 1949, the IAAI has served as the leading global professional association for those dedicated to uncovering the truth behind fire and explosion incidents. IAAI Members represent a diverse and multidisciplinary community—including fire and explosion investigators, fire service professionals, forensic engineers, law enforcement professionals, fire marshals and fire prevention officials, insurance claims and risk professionals, forensic scientists and laboratory analysts, product safety and regulatory professionals, manufacturers and industry safety specialists, attorneys and litigation professionals, loss adjusters, code officials and building inspectors, fire protection engineers, educators, and researchers—united by a shared commitment to advancing the science and discipline of fire and explosion investigation and litigation. Together, we are guided by a mission to inspire the international fire and explosion investigation community to achieve excellence and a vision to make a safer world by serving as the global resource for this profession.

At the center of that work is preparation. Fire and explosion investigations demand disciplined methodology, sound science, and professional integrity. Through training and education, certification programs, research, and collaboration across the public and private sectors, the IAAI works to help professionals become their best selves—qualified, certified, and competent. When investigation and litigation professionals are prepared to follow the evidence and apply the scientific method, the results strengthen the credibility of our conclusions, support better decisions by industry and regulators, and ultimately contribute to safer communities around the world. I am honored to serve alongside our IAAI Members and leaders as we continue this important work together.

David E. Bridges, Esq., IAAI-CFI, IAAI-CI

IAAI President 2025-2026