Welcome to the VDFP Podcast! In this episode, titled "What is Structural Collapse Specialist School all about?", we explore the world of specialized training at the Virginia Beach Fire Training Center. Host Chief Jamey Brads and facilitator Sandra Parker are joined by Jon Rigolo, a retired firefighter with a 40-year service history, to discuss the intensive 80-hour program that has been shaping urban search and rescue experts for 25 years.

Discover the school's history, the impact of influential leaders, and exciting plans for a 9/11 memorial. We'll also dive into real disaster response scenarios, hands-on training, and why this school is among the best in technical rescue training.

• 00:00 Passionate about Virginia Beach's rescue training program.
• 06:36 Developed a national curriculum for rescue specialists.
• 10:02 FEMA USAR evolves, adapts to diverse disasters.
• 12:00 Adapting skills training with Surfside building collapse exercise simulation.
• 13:59 Communication and canine training in challenging conditions.
• 20:23 Leadership training expanded with medical, psychological focus.
• 21:45 Steel beam from World Trade Center displayed here.
• 24:44 Honored witnessing pioneers and their achievements.
• 27:27 Developing USAR-centric training for frontline supervisors.

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Download a podcast transcript by clicking on this link.