VSC Speakers at AFSA

Posted on September 25, 2026 by Lauren Milliman

AFSA45 is just around the corner, and we are excited to have so many from our team presenting and moderating seminars. This year’s convention consists of four days of education, networking and unlimited connections. There are 78 seminars that include engaging topics and the industry’s best and brightest sharing their knowledge.

Among those presenting are six VSC employees – Heather Thomas, Chris Kachura, Jeff Lewis, Katie Meehan, Mike Meehan and Suzanne Saults. They each share a unique perspective based on their various backgrounds, roles and time in the industry.

Heather Thomas, Workforce Development Specialist, is eager to share her insight with attendees. “Coming from a background in the classroom and public sector, it is an incredible honor to now have the opportunity to speak at the AFSA National Convention about something I’m so passionate about – building and developing the next generation of talent. I’m proud to share what we’ve learned at VSC as we build our apprenticeship programs and workforce pipeline, and I’m even more excited to learn from and contribute to an industry that has welcomed me so wholeheartedly,” she said.

Jeff Lewis, VP of Technical Workforce Development, added: “Presenting at the AFSA conference is one of the highlights of my year. It is more than being able to share my own experience. It is the ability to learn from those that attend and who share their own insights and experiences. I always leave energized.” 

AFSA is much more than just a convention or expo. There are so many opportunities to learn, network and get involved. Chris Kachura, Senior Fire Protection Engineer, is looking forward to this year’s conference. “I think the goal of any leader should be to leave the industry better than the one we entered, so speaking at AFSA allows me to share my experiences and knowledge with the younger people in our industry,” he said.

Suzanne Saults, VP Division Manager for Tampa, Florida, highlights how AFSA has been an invaluable part of her professional journey throughout her 28 years in the fire protection industry. “The seminars and educational opportunities provide not only technical knowledge, but also a chance to learn from peers, share experiences and strengthen our industry as a whole. Presenting at AFSA is especially meaningful because it allows me to give back by sharing lessons I’ve learned throughout my career and helping others navigate their own paths.”

Mike Meehan, Non-Executive Chairman, is no stranger to AFSA or sharing his insight in seminars. This year, he will be presenting on the history of this industry. “A look back in time to how our industry came into being is healthy. Having a perspective on the when, the why and the who will help add context to where our industry is at today and maybe some insight into where we might be tomorrow.”

Katie Meehan, Marketing Director, reflects on past years as she prepares for this year’s seminars. “There is something incredibly meaningful about sharing knowledge with people who shape our industry. Presenting and moderating the Women in the Industry seminar is an opportunity to connect, learn from one another and contribute to the continued growth of the work we’re all passionate about.”

We are so grateful for those from our team, as well as everyone presenting and moderating seminars this year, for sharing their time and knowledge with attendees. If you are attending AFSA this year, be sure to say hello to our team and check out their seminars, as well as the many others available!