AFSA Conference 2026:
AFSA45 in San Antonio
The American Fire Sprinkler Association turns 45 this year, and it plans to celebrate in style. AFSA45 brings contractors, designers, inspectors, and suppliers together for four days of learning and networking. If you work in fire protection, this is the premier event on the calendar.
Key takeaways
- AFSA45 runs September 27 to 30, 2026, in San Antonio, Texas.
- The event celebrates 45 years of the American Fire Sprinkler Association.
- Expect seminars, a full exhibit hall, and the apprentice competition.
- The group hotel rate is $239 per night through the official AFSA link.
- Membership dues vary by company size, with training at member rates.
What Is the AFSA Conference?
The AFSA conference is the annual convention and exhibition of the American Fire Sprinkler Association. It is the overarching event where the industry comes to see new technology, attend seminars, and meet the people behind the products. The yearly apprentice competition also takes place here.
Where Can I Find the Fire Alarm Control Panel?
Most fire alarm panels sit near an entrance, lobby, or location first responders can access quickly. Local codes and the AHJ dictate placement, but the goal stays the same: fast access to the fire panel, since every fire panel exists to be found fast. Every fire panel should stay easy to locate, not buried on some hard-to-find page.
In larger properties, a fire alarm panel may sit inside an electrical or security room, with an annunciator at the entrance showing the same indicators, so responders see key security indicators without a locked door. Security staff often check the system during rounds. Smaller sites, such as schools, keep the system in one labeled location any user can find.
What Does AFSA Stand For?
AFSA stands for the American Fire Sprinkler Association. It is a nonprofit international association representing merit shop fire sprinkler contractors. Its mission is to support the education of its members and promote the use of automatic fire sprinkler systems. The association is based in Richardson, Texas, just outside Dallas.
AFSA 2026 Dates and Location
AFSA45 runs September 27 to 30, 2026, at the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort and Spa. The group hotel rate is $239 per night plus tax for stays from September 26 to 30. Check firesprinkler.org/AFSA45 for full registration information.
What to Expect at AFSA45?
The schedule is designed to give attendees plenty of variety:
Educational seminars that support continuing education for contractors, designers, and inspectors
Code and product guidance from AFSA’s technical services team and expert speakers
A full exhibit hall with the latest tools and innovations
The apprentice competition, a highlight at the heart of the event
Social events with plenty of time to network
Exhibitors get unopposed exhibit hours. AFSA plans each day so seminars and social events do not clash with the exhibit hall, which gives everyone more time to exchange valuable insights.
Other Fire Sprinkler Conferences in 2026
The convention is not the only opportunity to learn. AFSA runs several key gatherings throughout the year, including live webinars and hands-on training at its Dallas facility. Local chapters host their own meetings and charity golf days, which give chapter leadership a chance to connect with members closer to home. The wider industry also met in June at the NFPA Conference and Expo in Las Vegas.
How Much Does an AFSA Membership Cost?
Company dues are based on size or self-reported income, so the cost varies from one business to the next. Individual categories, such as facility managers, have been offered at a flat annual rate. Once a company joins, every employee can benefit, including members-only training rates and technical support. Visit the AFSA dues page for current pricing.
Tips Before You Attend
Note the seminars and committee sessions that matter most to you.
Bring questions for the code and product specialists.
Ask about sponsorship opportunities if you want brand visibility.
Ensure your hotel is booked through the official AFSA link to get group benefits.
Final Thoughts
AFSA 2026 is a pivotal event for anyone who wants to learn, share ideas, and celebrate 45 years of fire sprinkler education. With the convention starting later this September, now is the time to lock in your plans.