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In this inaugural episode of the "Fire Investigation INFOCUS" podcast, hosts Scott Kuhlman and Chasity Owens introduce themselves and discuss their backgrounds in fire investigation.

Introductions:

- Chasity Owens is 29 years old with a B.S. in Fire, Arson, and Explosion Investigation. She has nearly 6 years of experience on the private side and holds several certifications (IAAI-CFI, NAFI-CFEI, CVFI). She is also the newly elected Secretary of the California Conference of Arson Investigators (CCAI).

- Scott Kuhlman is a professional firefighter in Orange County, California with 30 years of experience. He has been in fire investigation for 25 years, working in both public and private sectors. He is the current President of CCAI.

Purpose of the podcast: 

- To discuss fire investigation, provide education, and ignite curiosity about the field.

- To feature conversations with experts and individuals that offer insights to areas that affect the field of fire investigation.

Backgrounds and meeting:

- Chasity chose the private sector route to dive directly into investigations rather than spending years in firefighting first. Scott had a traditional public sector career.

- They met when Chasity was hired as a fire evidence technician at a private company where Scott worked part-time. They clicked professionally and Scott mentored Chasity.

Industry insights: 

- Private sector investigations often go more in-depth on accidental fires than public sector ones, which typically stop if a fire is determined to be non-criminal to preserve the scene.

- Maintaining objectivity and focusing on facts is crucial, rather than succumbing to pressure to reach certain conclusions or speculation.

Training opportunities:

- The California Conference of Arson Investigators is holding its 70th Anniversary Seminar in San Luis Obispo from October 21-24, 2024.

- The Fresno City College Fire Investigator Academy offers a comprehensive 4-week program covering NFPA 1033 requirements from May 20 to June 14, 2024.

You can register now for both the above mentioned trainings at CCAI's website. (arson.org)

The hosts also discuss the growing role of AI in fire investigations and touch on their shared experiences with ADHD. Throughout the episode, their passion for the field and their collaborative relationship shine through.

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