Madi Michael is an education and training specialist at the Fire Safety Research Institute (FSRI), part of UL Research Institutes. She holds a master’s degree in Instructional Design from Western Governors University and a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and English Literature from the University of Maryland.
Before joining FSRI, Madi worked in youth development and community mental health, where she created experiential learning opportunities for students and families. Her background in social work deeply informs her approach to instructional design by prioritizing clarity, empathy, and cultural relevance in educational experiences. At FSRI, she applies these values to help translate fire safety research into training and public education resources that are accessible, engaging, and grounded in the real needs of learners. Madi was born in Ethiopia and grew up in Washington, DC, surrounded by a thriving immigrant community and lots of good food.