Eric Bridges, Jr. M.S.’26 is the recipient of the John L. Bryan Chair Graduate Research Assistantship. A recent graduate of Eastern Kentucky University with a bachelor’s degree in fire protection and safety engineering technology, his master’s research will focus on the influence of water in fire behavior and patterns. His research will characterize changes in fire propagation and intensity in fire patterns left on structural surfaces. 

His background is in fire detection, special hazard systems design and investigation with previous experience from Davis Ulmer Fire Protection, where he held a position as fire protection designer. His work in this role included designing addressable and conventional fire alarms, mass notification, voice evacuation systems and aspirating smoke detection, among others. In fire investigation, his experience included assisting in determining the origin and cause of fires and explosions in accordance with the scientific method and National Fire Protection Association codes.  

He shares the impact of the graduate assistantship in his career: “This award provides essential financial support that allows me to focus on my academic goals without the burden of financial stress. It will also empower me to contribute meaningfully to my field, learn innovative fire protection strategies, and develop the skills necessary to succeed in my career and make a positive impact in the community,” he said.

Autumn Walton M.S.’26 is the recipient of the Fire & Risk Alliance (FRA) Fellowship. She is a graduate of the North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University with a bachelor’s degree in architectural engineering who will concentrate her master’s research in fire protection challenges in energy storage systems—and how fire and plume behavior affect the built environment. Her work aims to understand the influence of fire-driven outputs in building atmosphere and air quality as well as the performance of mechanical systems and the risks faced by first responders. These insights will help advance strategies to protect building occupants and emergency responders while incorporating next-generation energy technologies in structures. 

Walton’s background is the force behind her research studies. Centering public safety in her career as a building design professional, her early experience as a lifeguard and swim instructor instilled in her a sense of proactiveness in emergency response. She says this will also serve as her guide in addressing complex hazards such lithium-ion battery suppression. 

About the impact of the fellowship on her career, Walton shares: “The FRA fellowship is important to me because it allows me to grow as a safety professional while contributing to research and practice that protects people when emergencies strike,” she said.