The Center of Excellence for Advanced Technology Aerial Firefighting (CoE) was created in Senate Bill 14-164. During the legislative session, proponents of the CoE explained that there was currently no mechanism for determining the efficacy of aerial firefighting and the need existed for an innovative, science- and data-focused research entity. For this reason, the CoE was held up as an integral part of ensuring the successful implementation of Colorado's own aerial firefighting fleet. In the years since its inception, the CoE has become the go-to research and development team for projects across the public safety service spectrum.

The Center of Excellence drives technological advancements to improve firefighting practices and influence innovation across the public safety community.

The Center of Excellence will overcome Colorado’s natural and human caused obstacles to consistently defy expectations and deliver unparalleled services to the public safety community and the people of Colorado.