The Society of Fire Protection Engineers (SFPE), a world-leading professional society for fire protection and fire safety engineering, announced the first board of directors for SFPE Canada, its newly established regional division.

Kieran Ager has been elected chair, Lindsay Ranger has been elected chair-elect, and Beth Weckman, Chris Anderson, Leslie Sims, and Alana MacLellan-Bonnell will serve as directors at large. One director at large will also assume the role of secretary, to be appointed during the board’s inaugural meeting.

The formation of the board signifies the official launch of SFPE Canada. The board will seek to strengthen SFPE’s global presence while addressing the unique challenges and opportunities within Canada, with a focus on education, professional growth, standards development, and collaboration across the country’s fire engineering community.

“It is an honor to serve as the inaugural chair of SFPE Canada. Our mission is to build a strong, collaborative community that advances fire protection engineering across the country while connecting Canadian professionals to the global SFPE network. With the support of our dedicated board and members, we look forward to shaping innovative solutions, fostering professional growth, and strengthening fire safety practices that protect people, property, and the environment,” Ager said.

SFPE Canada will operate in alignment with SFPE’s mission to advance the science and practice of fire protection engineering worldwide, providing Canadian professionals with access to SFPE’s global resources while also creating regionally tailored programs and initiatives.