The Combustion Institute is an educational non-profit, international, scientific society whose purpose is to promote and disseminate research in combustion science. The purpose of the Institute is carried out by its members. The members of the Institute take an active role in planning the events held by the Combustion Institute and arranging for publishing its proceedings and journal.

There are over 30 countries involved in The Combustion Institute. Generally the membership from each country comprises a section. However, in the U.S. there are three geographically organized sections. The Western States Section encompasses the western United States, including Hawaii, Alaska, Washington, Oregon, California, Idaho, Nevada, Montana, Wyoming, Utah, Colorado, Arizona, and New Mexico. The Eastern States Section serves the eastern U.S. and Central States Section serves the Central U.S.