Career Technical Education: Fire Technology

This rigorous program is designed to prepare you to work as a firefighter or help you upgrade your skills if you are already working in the profession. The courses conform to the recommended Uniform Fire Technology Curriculum of the California Community College System.

What certificates/degrees can I earn?

• Fire technology certificate
• Wildland fire technology certificate
• Associate in Science degree in fire technology
• Associate in Science degree in wildland fire technology

What will I learn?

You will have the opportunity to learn about vehicle rescue techniques, including using the Jaws of Life, as well as how to ventilate a building, lay fire hose and attack lines, put up a ladder and use rope rescue systems. Building construction and fire prevention will also be covered, culminating in live fire training.

What kinds of classes are offered?

The core classes in fire protection, prevention and behavior will help you determine if this is the career for you. If you find this industry appealing, you can apply to enter an academy and/or pursue an associate degree in fire technology.  Each offers distinct advantages and training useful in the field.

• The Firefighter 1 Academy will provide you with the knowledge and skills to complete training for the California State Fire Marshall Firefighter 1 certification. This certification is required in order to apply as a firefighter. Training will be held in the classroom and in ground drills.
• Wildland Fire Academy will provide you with the basic knowledge and skills to obtain an entry-level position as a temporary, on-call wildland firefighter.  Upon successful completion of the academy, the National Wildfire Coordinating Group will award you a certificate. Approximately half of your training will be in the classroom and half in practical training applications.
• The associate degree programs prepare you for full-time, permanent positions as a firefighter.

What are possible jobs in this field?

The fire technology field offers you many employment options, including a job as a forestry technician, wildland firefighter, hot shot crew member, helitack crew member, fire prevention technician, industrial fire brigade, health and safety inspector or Type II hand crew member.

Who could hire me?

Antelope Valley College’s Fire Technology program gives you a competitive edge in the fire technology field. However, even with completion of the certificate or degree, firefighter candidates cannot be hired without passing a state-mandated exam given to thousands of candidates each year.

Municipal fire departments in the area often hire graduates from this program, and each year the California City Fire Department accepts a handful of students as volunteer firefighter reserve interns.

What’s the average pay range for local jobs in this field?

Most local jobs in this industry start at approximately $50,000 per year.

Sounds great! How do I get more information?

Contact the Technical Education Division, (661) 722-6300, ext. 6327.

• Program Requirements