Speakers

• Mr. Ian Scott

  Ian Scott is a seasoned fire investigator with over 20 years of experience in the field, having built his career working alongside fire departments and law enforcement agencies across the country. His expertise spans origin and cause determination, wildfire investigation, and courtroom testimony, making him a trusted voice in both the investigative and legal communities.

  Throughout his career, Ian has led investigations on some of the most complex and high-profile cases in the region, earning a reputation for his meticulous attention to detail and unwavering commitment to uncovering the truth. He holds multiple certifications from leading fire investigation organizations and has served as a lead instructor for training programs at the state and national level.

  When he's not in the field, Ian is passionate about mentoring the next generation of fire investigators and advancing the science behind fire behavior analysis. He has authored several articles for industry publications and is a frequent speaker at national conferences, bringing his real-world experience and insight to audiences across the country.

• Ms. Cathleen Elise Corbitt-Dipierro, MPP

  Few names in the fire investigation world carry the weight and respect that Cathy Dipierro's does. With over 25 years of experience spanning rural wildfires, urban high-rise incidents, and everything in between, Cathy has built a career defined by an unrelenting pursuit of the truth and an unmatched ability to let the evidence tell the story. Her work has contributed to landmark cases across the country, making her a sought-after instructor, consultant, and expert witness for agencies at every level of government.

  Over the decades, she has earned the full suite of IAAI credentials, including the IAAI-CFI®, IAAI-FIT®, IAAI-ECT®, IAAI-CI®, IAAI-(V)®, and IAAI-(M)® — a distinction held by only a handful of investigators in the country. Her methodical approach, grounded in the scientific method and the latest advances in fire behavior research, has set a standard that investigators across the country strive to meet. A published author, frequent keynote speaker, and dedicated mentor, Cathy's influence can be felt in firehouses and investigation units from coast to coast. And if you spot her on the highway somewhere between Virginia and Massachusetts, don't be surprised — she's been known to consult on active investigations from the passenger seat while chauffeuring her son to marching band performances up and down the East Coast.