Sessions of 2026 Connection Conference: Michael Dougherty
Mr. Dougherty, Michael
Fire Instructor
Mountain Institute
With two decades of dedicated service as a Fireman/Paramedic, Mike Dougherty has collected a wealth of experience and expertise in fire safety, emergency response, and community protection/outreach. A proud holder of an associate’s degree in Fire Science, along with several certifications, Mike has consistently demonstrated a commitment to professional development and excellence in the field. Throughout a distinguished 20-year career, Mike has taken on various challenging roles within fire service, while gaining extensive hands-on experience in firefighting, rescue operations, and disaster management. This practical knowledge is complemented by an academic foundation in fire science, providing a deep understanding of fire behavior, prevention strategies, and the latest firefighting technologies. In addition to fieldwork, Mike is passionate about educating the next generation of fire service professionals. As an esteemed instructor at MICTED, Mike includes real-world experience and academic training to deliver comprehensive and engaging courses. Students benefit from Mike’s practical insights, learning not only the theoretical aspects of fire science, but also gaining invaluable knowledge from someone who has been on the front lines. Mike’s dedication to the fire service is evident in both his professional achievements and his commitment to teaching. Through a blend of hands-on experience, academic excellence, military experience, and a passion for education; Mike’s passion of the fire service shows every day in the classroom, while setting goals along the way. Mike has one priority in mind for the students in his fire science classes, and that’s success. Mike focuses on the growth and development of future fire service professionals every semester.
Sessions:
[5805] VR Technology in the Fire Science Classroom
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Westin La Paloma
- Public Service Careers
This session introduces CTE public safety educators to FLAIM Trainer, an immersive VR system that places learners into realistic fire scenarios to build critical firefighting skills. Using virtual simulations, students can practice risk assessment, safe approach techniques, and fire suppression tactics in a controlled environment that supports more frequent and safer training. Attendees will also see how FLAIM integrates force-feedback tools, breathing apparatus components, realistic nozzle controls, and a heated vest worn under standard PPE to replicate real fire conditions. With research-based fire, smoke, sound, and water behavior, FLAIM provides an authentic, hands-on experience that strengthens CTE programs and prepares students for careers in the fire service.
