How to Build Your Firefighter PPE Management Program
April 13th, 2026
Time: 11:00 AM ET | 10:00 AM CT | 8:00 AM PT
Duration: 60 minutes
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Summary
What happens when a fire department realizes it’s been wearing PPE without truly understanding the “why” behind the process of maintaining it? In this webinar, Brandon Barkley and Michael Williams will walk you through their journey, from inconsistent PPE practices, from personnel buying their own wildland gear, limited extractors, and gear stored while being exposed to diesel exhaust, to building a structured, compliance-driven firefighter PPE program. Learn how aligning with the Texas Commission on Fire Protection regulations, implementing the standardized issuing of PPE, conducting manufacturer wear tests, and adapting to NFPA’s 10-year lifespan standard transformed their approach to firefighter safety. They will share how they built inspection, cleaning, and drying systems, shift-by-shift, added a second set of gear, and hired a dedicated PPE technician. The webinar will also discuss key steps, from simplifying records management to exploring liquid CO₂ extractor systems and how continuous improvement keeps firefighters protected.
Speakers
Brandon Barkley
Deputy Assistant Chief of Operations
Pflugerville, TX, Fire Department
Brandon Barkley serves as the Deputy Assistant Chief of Operations for the Pflugerville Fire Department (Travis County ESD No. 2). His connection to the department began in high school through the Pflugerville Fire Department’s Explorer program, He was hired in 2005 and has since promoted through the ranks to his current position. From 2011 to 2015, he served as the PPE Program Manager for the department. He holds an associate’s degree in applied sciences, specializing in Fire Protection Technology. He is a certified professional in the State of Texas, holding a Driver Operator certification, a Haz Mat Technician, Level 4 Fire Officer, Level 3 Instructor, and Inspector/Plans Examiner certification.
Mike Williams
Personal Protective Equipment Technician
Pflugerville, TX, Fire Department
Mike Williams is the Personal Protective Equipment Technician for the Pflugerville, TX, Fire Department, (Travis County ESD No. 2), where he has worked for a year. He was a volunteer firefighter New Hampshire, with a combined four years in two departments. He worked as the warehouse manager of a fire equipment vendor and Scott service center, providing sales and service to most of New England. He has experience with customer service management roles in the civilian sector.
