Kirkland-based Compelling Technologies has announced a new partnership with the Washington State Fire Fighters Association to redesign the statewide volunteer firefighter recruiting program.

CTI will work to improve recruiting and retention rates, focusing on specific demographics such as youth and minority populations. Due to factors ranging from National Guard deployments to lack of employer support, the United States suffers an acute shortage of volunteer firefighters.

The initiative is funded under a 2007 SAFER (Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response) grant administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

Compelling Technologies is known for FullyInvolved, the computer-based command training simulation for firefighters based on fire service best practice strategies.

CTI is privately held.