Milwaukee – (April 22, 2022) The Aircraft Rescue & Fire Fighting Working Group has selected Milwaukee as host city for its 2023 International Symposium. The premier aviation industry event is scheduled for Sept. 22-28, 2023.
Thousands of specialized rescue firefighting professionals protect airports and air travelers daily. The Aircraft Rescue & Fire Fighting (ARFF) Working Group helps ensure those professionals are connected and educated with the latest science and methods of aviation fire protection and prevention. Milwaukee County Fire Department Interim Chief Kevin Doyne and more local leaders were supporters of the symposium coming to Milwaukee.
“We are very excited to welcome this incredible organization and its heroic professionals to Milwaukee,” said Peggy Williams-Smith, president and CEO of VISIT Milwaukee. “ARFF will experience our city’s unique brand of hospitality when they bring attendees to Milwaukee next year.”
Taking place over five days, the ARFF Working Group International Symposium offers seminars, hands-on training, and networking opportunities for airport firefighters as well as industry experts. This international audience will even see the newest technology in the aviation firefighting industry firsthand in addition to visiting with 40 to 50 exhibitors.
ARFF's symposium is right at home in a city whose airport – Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE) – has a key place in aviation history. In addition to being named for military aviation pioneer Brigadier General William Mitchell, MKE’s main terminal is home to the Mitchell Gallery of Flight. The free museum details the history of aviation with permanent and changing displays showcasing national and local pioneers in the aviation industry.
Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport continues to serve in a military capacity as well. MKE’s east ramp is home to the 128th Air Refueling Wing of the Wisconsin Air National Guard. Until 2008, the airport’s south ramp housed the 440th Airlift Wing of the Air Force Reserve.