Ignite your passion, protect our lands: Become a wildland firefighter at Clackamas Community College
Become part of something bigger
- High demand and job security: Wildland firefighters are crucial to safeguarding our environment, leading to strong employment prospects.
- Meaningful work: Each day brings an opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of others.
- Outdoor adventure: Embrace the challenge and beauty of working in diverse natural landscapes.
- Personal growth and teamwork: Develop valuable skills, resilience and a strong sense of camaraderie.
Ready to make a difference? Apply now for the Wildland Firefighter 1 Certificate program.
For detailed description and learning outcomes for this program, view the course catalog.Required classes for the Wildland Firefighter 1 Certificate
Secure your future as a wildland firefighter
Wildland firefighters play a vital role in protecting our communities and ecosystems from wildfires. The demand for skilled firefighters is expected to grow, making this a stable and rewarding career choice.
Here's why you should consider Clackamas Community College's Wildland Firefighter 1 Certificate program:
- High-growth industry: The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects job growth for firefighters (including wildland firefighters). This means plenty of job opportunities after graduation.
- Strong demand: Increased wildfire activity is driving the need for more firefighters. Your skills and training will be in high demand.
- Seasonal and full-time opportunities: Wildland firefighter positions can be seasonal or full-time, offering flexibility to fit your career goals.
Invest in your future with Clackamas Community College's Wildland Firefighter 1 program. Apply today and take the first step toward a fulfilling career!
Launch your wildland firefighting career in six months
In just six months, Clackamas Community College's Wildland Firefighter 1 Certificate program equips you with the critical skills and knowledge to be prepared to work in this fast-paced and rewarding field.
You should learn:
- Essential firefighting techniques: Learn from experienced instructors about fire behavior, safety protocols, equipment operation and crew leadership.
- Tactical intelligence: Understand wildfire science, anticipate its movements and strategize effective control measures.
- Physical and mental resilience: Get in peak shape and cultivate the focus and teamwork needed to succeed in demanding environments.
- Diverse career paths: Gain entry-level qualifications for a variety of opportunities, from forest and national park positions to fire inspection and education roles.
- Leadership: Develop clear communication, effective delegation and sound decision-making skills to foster trust and collaboration within your team.
Don't wait to turn your passion into action. Apply for the Wildland Firefighter 1 Certificate program today and take the first step toward a fulfilling career protecting our communities and natural resources.
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).
