As the fire service has integrated technology into operations, two scenarios dominate the landscape: either a product is developed to meet an operational need, or existing technology is adapted to fit into operations. Both scenarios have benefits as well as challenges. This session will review how personal protective equipment (turnout gear & SCBA) has evolved to meet the operational needs of the fire service as well as how thermal imaging has been adapted to fit into operations. The lessons learned from these case studies can be applied to emerging technologies for the fire service, such as large language models, interior drones, and immersive learning.