Program Description

The Fire Technology A.A.S. program offers students the opportunity to receive comprehensive instruction in basic and advanced firefighting techniques, fire prevention, rescue, and fire service management. The major also provides instruction on becoming involved in all phases of the decision-making process, from entry-level to company officer level, with a focus on improving productivity and safety. The program consists of approximately one-third general education and two-thirds technical coursework, including both classroom and hands-on technical training to enable students to become familiar with all aspects of firefighting, from entry-level to advanced levels. Also included is an instructional area titled “Job Skills.” This instruction will be offered through students’ local fire departments. Students who are not connected with a fire department will be assisted in finding a site.

Program Learner Outcomes

1. Student will demonstrate professional firefighting skills as outlined in the National Fire Protection Association standards.
2. Student will execute Emergency Medical Technician-Basic skills as identified by the Department of Transportation.
3. Student will organize fire prevention and fire education activities as outlined by National Fire Protection Associations standards.
4. Student will demonstrate effective, professional internal and external (written and oral) communication skills required of the firefighting industry.
5. Student will perform rescue operation skills as outlined in National Fire Protection Association standards.
6. Student will execute hazardous materials response skills safely as outlined in National Fire Protection Association standards.
7. Student will use appropriate emergency management skills in a variety of firefighting situations.
8. Student will operate and maintain fire apparatus and fire equipment properly as outlined in the National Fire Protection Association standards.
9. Student will demonstrate professional characteristics, behaviors, and attitudes as expected in the firefighting field.

Employment Information

A nationwide demand exists for students who want to become professional firefighters. Typically, job titles include starting firefighter with a municipal fire department, but in some cases, industry or other governmental institutions may hire graduates with these capabilities.

A firefighter’s work schedule does not follow a typical 9-to-5 schedule; therefore, based on shift work, the average annual starting salary for an entry-level firefighter is $45,000.00.

• Fire Chief
• Firefighter/EMT (Firefighter/Emergency Medical Technician)
• Firefighter/Paramedic
• Apparatus Operator
• Driver Engineer
• Fire Captain
• Fire Engineer
• Fireman
• Master Fire Fighter

Additional Program Resources