IFSI Recognizes Mark Clapp

Mark Clapp

The University of Illinois Fire Service Institute (IFSI) recognizes instructors who exemplify quality instruction, student engagement, professional demeanor and knowledge base. 

Mark Clapp, June’s Instructor of the Month, has worked with IFSI since 1993. He has taught more than 600 classes since 1996 and coordinated an additional 902 classes since 1997. Mark was IFSI’s first facilitator for HazMat classes and now serves at the institute’s Program Manager for LP, Oil and Gas Programs.  He is a regular instructor for Fire College, Firefighter II Academy and Explorer-Cadet Hands-on Training weekend.

Clapp began his fire service career in 1985 as an Explorer with the Champaign Explorer Post and as a volunteer on the Bondville Fire Department.  He served on the Danville Fire Department from 1990 until 1992 when he joined the Urbana Fire Department.  Currently, Mark holds the rank of Lieutenant on that department.

“Mark has worked diligently to provide LP and gas and oil firefighting training throughout Illinois,” Dave Clark, former Deputy Director for IFSI said.

Steve Williams, IFSI February Instructor of the month added, “Mark is an excellent choice. He has great enthusiasm working with students, has energy and has a great teaching style the students learn easily from.”

“IFSI instructors are the finest in the state and nation and Mark is no exception. His commitment to excellence is at the heart of our mission success to bring the finest training, education, research and information to the firefighters of Illinois,” Royal Mortenson, Director for IFSI said.

The Illinois Fire Service Institute is the statutory State Fire Academy for Illinois.  In addition to training provided at its Champaign campus, the Institute offers one-day hands-on classes for fire departments at Regional Training Centers and local fire stations across the State.  The mission of the Illinois Fire Service Institute is to help firefighters do their work through training, education, information and research.

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