Ignite Your Career in wildland fire forestry at Clackamas Community College
- The thrill of working outdoors: Immerse yourself in the beauty of diverse forest ecosystems, from towering evergreens to vibrant meadows.
- The challenge of protecting our natural heritage: Be part of the solution, mitigating the threats of wildfires and ensuring the sustainability of our forests.
- The camaraderie of teamwork: Collaborate with dedicated professionals, forging strong bonds while working toward a common goal.
- The satisfaction of making a real difference: Your expertise plays a crucial role in safeguarding communities and preserving the balance of our environment.
Required classes for the Wildland Fire Forestry Career Pathway
High demand, fulfilling careers: Start your wildland fire journey at CCC
Clackamas Community College's Wildland Fire Forestry Certificate equips you for a career in a field with high demand and rewarding opportunities. Here's why you should consider this program:
- Booming wildfire activity: Increased wildfire activity creates a constant need for trained professionals.
- Diverse Career Paths: The certificate opens doors to a variety of fire forestry positions, including wildland firefighter, forest technician, fire inspector and more.
- Seasonal and full-time options: Pursue seasonal firefighting work or climb the career ladder toward permanent positions in federal, state or private agencies.
Fuel your passion for the outdoors. Contact us to learn more about the Wildland Fire Forestry Certificate program.
For more information on career opportunities for this program, view the course catalog.Unleash your potential: Essential skills you will learn
Clackamas Community College's Wildland Fire Forestry Certificate program equips you with a comprehensive skill set to thrive in this dynamic field. More than just firefighting, this program prepares you for a variety of roles within wildland fire forestry.
Here's what you should gain:
- Forest ecology: Develop a foundation in silviculture (forest management) and regeneration practices, crucial for understanding fire's role in forest health.
- Plant identification: Learn to identify trees and shrubs commonly found in Oregon's diverse forests. This skill is essential for navigating fire zones and understanding vegetation's impact on fire behavior.
- Forest infrastructure development: Gain knowledge of forest road development, a key component in fire access and management strategies.
- Forest measurement tools: Become proficient in using forest measurement tools to assess timber volume and fire impacts on forest resources.
- Timber marketing: Understand the principles of marketing timber and Oregon's specific forest harvest laws. This knowledge can be valuable in understanding the economic considerations of forest management and fire prevention.
- Logging systems: Explore different logging systems used in forestry, providing a broader perspective on forest management practices.
Clackamas Community College's Wildland Fire Forestry Certificate program equips you for success — from forest ecology to fire management.
For more information on expected learning outcomes of successfully completing this program, view the course catalog.Investing in your future
Clackamas Community College offers some of the lowest tuition rates in the Portland metro area. To begin building the cost for your program, you can start with the base estimate below.
This estimate includes the cost of tuition and the general fees applied per class and per academic term. This estimate does not include additional fees required for many courses or the cost of course materials. Contact the program to learn more about additional costs that may apply.
You can also find more information about the costs of attending CCC on the Tuition and Fees page.
Get help paying for college
Scholarships and grants (free money!) are available for students in this program. For help with financial aid and scholarships, contact the Financial Aid Resource Lab.
Continuing education for firefighters
Separate from its degrees and academic certificates, Clackamas Community College also offers recertification trainings and professional development opportunities for wildland firefighters, forestry workers, public land managers and natural resource field technicians.
Our S courses, professional workshops and refresher courses will boost your skills and allow you to advance in your profession. Learn more at www.cccwildfire.com.
Wildland Refresher Training (RT-130)
Wildland Fire Refresher Training (RT 130) informs wildland firefighters of current issues and the upcoming fire season. This training is required annually by all federal, state and contract firefighters.
Training is provided to recognize and mitigate risk, maintain safe and effective firefighting practices, and reduce accidents and near misses. Clackamas Community College offers a five-hour refresher course each season. The college can arrange courses geared toward agency-specific requirements, such as fireline EMTs.
Work Capacity (Pack) Test
The Work Capacity (Pack) Test is a yearly requirement for all fireline personnel. CCC offers the test at the arduous level. As a recognized Public Training Provider, our pack tests are overseen by the Oregon Department of Forestry.
After a safety briefing, participants will carry a weighted vest around the college track, completing three miles in 45 minutes (arduous).