About this program:

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Montana faces growing challenges from wildfire smoke, extreme heat, and environmental allergens that threaten public health. The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) is leading innovative efforts to protect communities by empowering public buildings to prepare for wildfire smoke season and create clean indoor air spaces for their citizens, especially those most vulnerable to wildfire smoke.

 

This session highlights the multi-year strategy to reduce exposure to wildfire smoke and other environmental hazards, including PM2.5, communicable diseases, and heat events. Through strong partnerships with non-profit organizations, Tribal nations, local public health agencies, and emergency planning partners, Montana DPHHS is increasing awareness around the health impacts of poor air quality while education communities and individuals on how to take action to create healthier indoor environments.

 

What You’ll Take Away:

• Insights into Montana’s strategies for reducing exposure to wildfire smoke and improving IAQ in public spaces.

• How the Clean Air Shelter Recognition Program supports community buildings in upgrading HVAC systems, deploying portable air cleaners, and monitoring air quality.

• Examples of communication strategies that engage diverse communities—including Tribal members, people living with disabilities, and Spanish-speaking populations—to promote smoke readiness and health protection.

• Training approaches for HVAC technicians, school facility managers, and building operators to maintain safe indoor environments during poor air quality, heat events, or communicable disease outbreaks.

• A roadmap for establishing replicable clean air shelters and community programs that can serve as safe havens statewide.

Who Should Attend:
Public health professionals, emergency planners, building managers, school administrators, HVAC specialists, community organizers, and anyone interested in protecting public health through innovative air quality strategies.

 

About the Presenter:

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BJ Biskupiak is a public health program specialist working with the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services. BJ manages the Montana Asthma Control Program (MACP) located within the Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion Bureau. 

He graduated from the Carroll College in 2010 with a BA in Community Health. From 2010-2013, BJ served as a Peace Corps community health specialist in northern Peru. In 2013, he returned to Montana where he began his work with the MACP. In addition to his work with the MACP, BJ has also helped oversee the state health department’s response to wildfire smoke for over ten years. Currently, he oversees the administration of a three year EPA grant focused on increasing wildfire smoke preparedness on the state, community, and building level.

BJ lives in Helena, MT with his wife and their three children. He enjoys hunting, fishing, backpacking, and a long list of other outdoor activities Montana has to offer. BJ is passionate about public health and believes that everyone deserves the opportunity to live a healthy life regardless of their background.

 

Program Level:
TBA

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Content Area(s):

• TBA

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