Wildland Firefighter Academy Dates
February 8, 2027 – June 2, 2027
Location
Antelope Valley College – Lancaster Campus
Discovery Lab (DL-110)
Minimum Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the Wildland Firefighter Academy, applicants must:
- Be at least 18 years old by February 8, 2027
- Possess a high school diploma or GED
- Be physically capable of meeting the demands of the academy
Application Process
Step 1 – Complete the Academy Application
Complete and submit the Wildland Firefighter Academy Application using the link below.
Application Link
Important: The application form is only accessible to current Antelope Valley College (AVC) students using their AVC student account.
If you are not currently an AVC student, please email lori.gilroy@avc.edu to request an application and receive instructions on how to apply.
Applications should be submitted as soon as possible. After submitting your application, you must attend one of the mandatory Wildland Firefighter Academy Information Meetings to continue in the selection process.
Step 2 – Attend a Mandatory Information Meeting
After submitting your application, you must attend one (1) mandatory Wildland Firefighter Academy Information Meeting.
During the meeting, you will:
- Receive an overview of the academy, expectations, and selection process.
- Obtain the required application documents and medical forms.
- Receive instructions for completing and submitting all required paperwork.
- Have the opportunity to ask questions about the academy, physical requirements, and the AVC Marauders Fire Crew.
Attendance at one information meeting is required to continue in the academy selection process.
| Date | Time |
|---|
| August 31, 2026 | 4:00 PM |
| September 24, 2026 | 5:00 PM |
| November 6, 2026 | 4:00 PM |
Note: November 6, 2026 – 4:00 PM (If needed)
This meeting will be offered only if additional recruitment is necessary. Updates will be posted on this webpage.
Location: Discovery Lab (DL-110), Antelope Valley College
Step 3 – Acceptance Notification
Applications will be reviewed after the mandatory information meetings have concluded. You will receive an email notifying you of your application status no later than November 10.
Applicants selected for the academy will receive instructions regarding the next steps in the enrollment process. Applicants who are not selected will also be notified by email.
Step 4 – Complete Enrollment Requirements
Accepted applicants must complete all enrollment requirements by the deadlines provided. This includes:
- Purchasing the required academy uniforms.
- Completing and submitting all required medical, liability, and academy documentation.
- Completing any additional pre-academy requirements outlined in your acceptance email.
- Attending the mandatory uniform inspection and orientation prior to the start of the academy.
Failure to complete all required documentation and deadlines may result in forfeiture of your academy seat.
Space is limited. Early submission is strongly encouraged.
Please Note:
Information meeting dates, application deadlines, and academy requirements are subject to change. Check this webpage regularly for the most current information and updates.
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.
