Cognitive Performance Symposium Program Overview

First responders are asked to perform at their highest level in environments defined by uncertainty, complexity, and constant demand. Yet the science behind cognitive performance: the brain, nervous system, decision-making, recovery, and resilience—is rarely taught as part of the profession.

The Cognitive Performance Symposium brings together nationally recognized leaders in neuroscience, human performance, leadership, and public safety to explore the future of first responder wellness and operational excellence.

Hosted by First Responders Resiliency, Inc.® (FRRI), this one-day symposium is designed to move beyond traditional conversations about behavioral wellness and instead focus on optimizing cognitive health, performance, and long-term resilience. Through evidence-based education, real-world applications, and meaningful collaboration, participants will gain practical strategies to improve decision-making, enhance recovery, strengthen leadership, and sustain peak performance throughout their careers.

Whether serving on the front lines, leading an organization, supporting personnel, or shaping public safety policy, attendees will leave with actionable tools designed to strengthen both individual performance and organizational resilience.

Together, we are changing the conversation—from behavioral wellness to cognitive performance.

A Special Thank You

The Cognitive Performance Symposium is made possible through the generous support of our presenting partners and sponsors whose commitment to advancing first responder health, innovation, and operational excellence is helping shape the future of public safety.

We extend our sincere appreciation to the Leigh Steinberg Foundation, DeNicola Family Foundation, Niagara, and our valued partners for investing in the health, performance, and resilience of those who dedicate their lives to serving others.

Together, we are building stronger responders, stronger organizations, and stronger communities.

Learning Objectives

Participants will:

• Understand how cumulative stress and trauma affect cognitive performance, decision-making, and long-term brain health.
• Explore the neuroscience of stress, recovery, resilience, and human performance.
• Learn practical strategies to improve focus, emotional regulation, energy management, and operational readiness.
• Identify leadership practices that strengthen organizational culture, resilience, and workforce performance.
• Discover emerging innovations and evidence-based tools shaping the future of first responder wellness.
• Develop an actionable framework for sustaining cognitive performance throughout a career and beyond.

Registration Support

Individuals, agencies, peer support teams, leadership groups, and organizations wishing to register multiple attendees are encouraged to contact us directly. Our team can assist with group registrations, reserved seating, sponsorship opportunities, and event information.

📧 register@resiliency1st.org

📞 (707) 625-0636

Event Details

Date: Wednesday, February 10, 2027

Time: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Location: Los Angeles, California (Venue to Be Announced)

Meals Included: Lunch, refreshments, coffee, and light snacks will be provided throughout the day.

Program Topics

Neuroscience & Cognitive Performance

Understanding how stress impacts the brain, cognition, memory, attention, and decision-making.

Human Performance

Strategies to optimize focus, energy, recovery, sleep, and sustainable high performance.

Resilience Science

Building mental strength, emotional resilience, and long-term psychological health.

Leadership in Action

Creating resilient organizations through intentional leadership, culture, and performance-based practices.

Innovation in Public Safety

Exploring cutting-edge research, technology, and evidence-based solutions shaping the future of responder health.

Special Closing Event: The Brain Panel

A live discussion featuring leading neuroscientists, researchers, innovators, and performance experts. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions, engage with experts, and explore the future of cognitive performance in public safety.