Louisiana Association of Arson Investigators
IAAI, Chapter 42.
Louisiana Association of Arson Investigators
IAAI, Chapter 42.
Eric Bacon Annual Training Conference December 9 -11, 2025
Louisiana Chapter of IAAI Annual Training Conference
December 9–11, 2025
St. George Fire Department
14100 Airline Highway, Baton Rouge, LA 70817
Experience Live Burn Cell Demonstrations
Join us for three days of intensive, hands-on training focused on fire dynamics, explosion investigation, and expert courtroom challenges. This year’s conference features live burn cell demonstrations, interactive case studies, and instruction from nationally recognized experts in fire and explosion analysis.
Register now at: www.laiaai42.com
Course Lineup & Instructors
The Use of Fire Dynamics for Origin Determination – December 9, 2025 (8-5)
Instructor: Dr. Gregory E. Gorbett
This course explores how fire dynamics principles are applied to test origin hypotheses. Attendees will gain insights into ventilation-controlled fires, heat release rates of fuels, and fire pattern analysis, integrating live fire scenes and case studies to reinforce practical applications.
Dr. Gorbett is a Professor at Eastern Kentucky University and a professional Fire and Explosion Analyst with Fire Dynamics Analysts. A certified CFEI, IAAI-CFI, and CFPS, he holds multiple degrees in Forensic Science, Fire Science, Fire Protection Engineering, and a Ph.D. in Fire Protection Engineering.
Explosion Dynamics – December 10, 2025 (8-5)
Instructor: Dr. Scott G. Davis
Fuel-air explosions are among the most complex phenomena in fire science. This course offers a detailed review of combustion physics, experimental methods, and investigative techniques, concluding with case studies that demonstrate advanced analysis methods for vapor cloud explosions.
Dr. Davis is CEO and Principal Engineer at GexCon US, Inc., specializing in combustion, thermal, and fluid process analysis. With a Ph.D. in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering from Princeton, he has investigated hundreds of fires and explosions and serves on the NFPA 921 Technical Committee.
Challenges to Expert Qualifications, Methodology, & Opinions (December 11, 2025 (8-12)
Instructor: David E. Bridges, Esq., IAAI-CFI®, IAAI-CI®
This presentation examines the legal challenges experts face in fire and explosion litigation—covering Daubert/Frye hearings, methodology defense, and court analytical frameworks. Attendees will review public and private sector case studies highlighting real-world examples of expert testimony admission, limitation, or exclusion.
Mr. Bridges is an attorney with Meagher + Geer, P.L.L.P., specializing in fire and explosion litigation. A Certified Fire Investigator and Certified Instructor, he brings unique insights bridging legal and technical aspects of expert witness work.
Why Attend
• Live burn cell demonstrations and fire pattern analysis
• Hands-on instruction by nationally recognized experts
• Deep dive into fire dynamics, explosion science, and expert testimony
• Networking with fire investigation professionals across Louisiana and beyond
Nearby Hotels:
• Tru by Hilton – 10960 Siegen Holiday Circle, Baton Rouge, LA 70809 (225) 208-7500
· Home 2 Suites – 10800 Siegen Holiday Circle, Baton Rouge, LA 70809 (225) 223-6788
· Courtyard by Marriott – 1037 N. Mall Drive, Baton Rouge, LA 70809 (225) 293-7200
Check-in will open at 7am each morning
Register now at: www.laiaai42.com
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Our Team
Our History
Our History
Our Executive Team and Board of Directors is comprised of public sector and private sector professionals from within the Louisiana fire investigation community. They work to ensure the efficient operation of the chapter and strive to bring the best possible training to our membership.
Our History
Our History
Our History
Since 1983 the LA Chapter of the International Association of Arson Investigators has been instrumental in creating a professional association for fire investigation professionals, united by a strong commitment to suppress the crime of arson through professional fire investigation.
Our Mission
Our History
Our Mission
The LA-IAAI will continue to serve as a leading resource in the state for those serving and associated with the fire, arson and explosion investigation profession with respect to fire safety/prevention, arson enforcement/prosecution, and fire claims/litigation.
Thank you To Our Sponsors and Partners
Forensic Investigations Group
Forensic Investigations Group
82001 HIGHWAY 1129 COVINGTON, LA 70435
TOLL FREE 888-713-4434
DIRECT DIAL 985-871-1459
IAAI
International Association of Arson Investigators
16901 Melford Boulevard, Suite 101
Bowie, MD 20715
800-468-IAAI (4224)
410-451-FIRE (3473)
Fax: 410-451-9049