Federation for International Refractory Research and Education
News
Creating Opportunities for the Next Generation of Refractory Innovators - Chris Parr
As Chairman of FIRE - Federation for International Refractory Research & Education, I am often asked what led me to take on this role—and what keeps me driven every single day.
For me, the answer is simple: our industry’s future depends on young, world-class talent.
Refractories are the unsung backbone of global high-temperature manufacturing—from steel and glass to green energy transitions. Yet, to continue innovating, we need fresh perspectives, cross-border collaboration, and bright minds who see the incredible potential of material science.
This is precisely why FIRE was created. Through its double mission of cutting-edge research and international education, FIRE provides the ultimate bridge between academia and industrial reality. It gives students and young researchers direct exposure to global networks, complex technical challenges, and hands-on international experience early in their careers.
Seeing young talent thrive across borders while shaping the future of high-temperature materials is what motivates me most. FIRE isn't just an organization; it’s a vehicle to inspire, educate, and empower the next generation of refractory leaders backed up by the reality of more than 100 FIRE students over the past 20 years, with over 60% still in the industry value chain.
If you share a passion for international collaboration, research, and mentoring emerging talent, I’d love to connect and discuss how we can build the future of refractories together.
Chris PARR
FIRE Chairman
Last news
Highlight of the members of the Board of Directors - Victor Carlos Pandolfelli
My journey with FIRE began in 2003, together with Prof. Michel Rigaud and other academic and industrial colleagues. In 2005, our first official meeting in Limoges, France, transformed this vision into reality. From the beginning, FIRE was founded on a strong belief in cooperation between universities and industry towards a better education. Its strength has always come from working across institutional, cultural, and national borders.
Highlight of the members of the Board of Directors - Christos C. Aneziris
As the world navigates climate and energy transitions, strong partnerships between industry and academia are more important than ever. In the refractory field, sustainability means not only developing materials for high-temperature applications, but also ensuring the sustainable processing of these materials.
Contact us and/or Become Member!
Contact us for any information and/or to Become Member of FIRE: fire@ecers.org
