Over 34,000 firefighters from all over the world were in Indianapolis in early April for the largest firefighter training conference and trade show in the world. FDIC International, the Fire Department Instructors Conference, is held annually in Indianapolis with an opportunity for instructors and firefighters to learn from the best and brightest educators in today’s fire service.

This annual week-long conference included hands-on training sessions, classroom sessions and workshops. In addition to the great training opportunities, firefighters saw the largest collection of apparatus, equipment and training tools available to the fire service. The exhibits fill Lucas Oil Stadium and The Indiana Convention Center. This year there were over 216 classes offered.

While several Columbus Firefighters took advantage of the opportunity to attend classes and view the latest and greatest gear, one Columbus Firefighter was marching to the beat of a different drum, or shall we say, Pipe and Drum.

Deputy Chief Mike Kutsko, the Columbus Fire Department’s only bagpipe musician, spent a great deal of the conference joining other firefighters from all over the county as a member of the Public Safety Pipe and Drum band. This group of musicians entertained conference attendees all week long as they were seen marching through the halls of the Indiana Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium. Deputy Chief Kutsko also “piped” at several conference related social events during the conference.

We are proud to have Deputy Chief Kutsko represent our department and our community.