Top Takeaways from NAFED Atlantic City

What does the future look like for fire and life safety contractors?

At the 2025 NAFED Conference, the message was clear: the future belongs to smart, scalable, technician-first businesses. 

From cutting-edge tech to old-school fundamentals that still matter, this year’s sessions offered practical insights for contractors ready to grow.

Here are five key takeaways that stood out for fire and life safety businesses looking to level up.

1. Smart, Scalable, and Technician-Friendly

In “Busting Myths About AI in the Service Industry,” ServiceTrade’s own James Jordan pulled back the curtain on what AI is (and isn’t) for contractors. Spoiler: it’s not a futuristic luxury for Silicon Valley firms, it’s already here, helping fire protection businesses save time, improve accuracy, and grow faster.

Early adopters of AI have an edge in the industry, and as James proved, AI isn’t so scary. Even free tools can bring new efficiencies to your business and elevate your team—without replacing them. 

Want the full breakdown? Read James’s AI Mythbusting session summary. 

2. Surviving the Labor Shortage Means Winning the Talent War

Hiring has never been harder, and keeping good people is even harder still. In his keynote, workplace strategist Jeff Butler shared real-world strategies for attracting and retaining the next generation of techs.

The big shift? Younger workers aren’t just looking for a paycheck, they’re looking for purpose, flexibility, and tools that actually make their jobs easier. Digital workflows, paperless service, and clear career paths aren’t optional anymore, they’re what gets people in the door (and keeps them there).

Companies that clearly communicate why their technicians’ work matters — and back it up with real stories and recognition — have a competitive edge. Jeff’s example of asking new hires to write their answer to the question, “This is why I work here” to create an early connection and commitment stands out as one we can’t wait to adopt.

Want to hear what technicians want directly from technicians? Read the 2025 Technician Insights Report

3. Delegation Is a Growth Strategy

If your team can’t operate without you, growth will always hit a ceiling.

Jeff Radichel’s breakout session, “The Art of Delegation – Building a Scalable Team,” walked through practical ways leaders can begin handing off responsibility and why delegation is the key to a sustainable, scalable business. 

For contractors juggling day-to-day chaos, the takeaway was that building systems and trusting your team is the fastest path to freedom.

4. First Impressions Still Matter

In the field, your techs are your brand. Vicki Whitmire, of Peach State Fire’s session, “First Impressions = Win or Lose,” was a powerful reminder that professionalism never goes out of style. Whether it’s personal appearance, vehicle presentation, or communication habits, customers notice — and they remember.

Vicki highlighted the need for professionalism in tech behavior, including social media policies and handling of sensitive sites. Many members say collecting short, effective customer surveys can drive both quality control and online reviews. The best advice we heard in this regard is to call anytime you get negative feedback, it can save the customer relationship.

The session sparked strong discussion around whether or not to install cameras in trucks. Many have adopted this new technology while others are still in evaluation. Some noted that camera footage saved their company on liability insurance and reduced their overall insurance premium.

Combined with digital tools that send polished quotes, reports, and reminders, a professional presence builds trust and keeps your company top-of-mind.

5. The Industry Is Evolving — Fast

New markets (like cannabis facilities), new codes (like NFPA 660), and new standards (like those shaping portable extinguisher exchange programs) all made appearances at this year’s show. Staying compliant and competitive means staying informed and being ready to adapt.

For contractors using ServiceTrade, that adaptability is built in. With centralized records, automated scheduling, and real-time updates, you’re always ahead of the curve — no matter how fast the code standards change.

NAFED 2025 wasn’t just about what’s changing — it was about how fire protection contractors can thrive because of those changes. Whether you’re focused on growth, efficiency, or elevating your team, the message is clear: the businesses that lean into tech, invest in people, and stay sharp will lead the way.