I noticed that Columbia College isn’t listed an an accredited regional academy. Have they
lost their accreditation? If so, what are the ramifications of graduating from a fire academy
that isn’t California State Fire Marshal accredited?

That’s exactly right. There is a definite distinction between your states Firefighter 1 certification and the completion of a state certified Firefighter 1 academy. If an application or hiring department requires a Firefighter 1, the academy alone is not enough. You’ll still need either 1 year of part time experience, or 6 months of full time experience as a firefighter to earn your certification. This is usually accomplished by working with a volunteer department or in a reserve program.

Thanks for the heads up! San Pasqual Reservation Fire Academy is now on the list!

- Josh

Thanks for posting and for emailing me as well! (Your email is quoted below)

“I left a message on your site, but hoping you could advise a friend of mine on something…
He’s taken Fireman 1 and 2 with EMT in AZ, but can’t get a certificate because AZ cut the office (budget cuts) He loves the program and has done well with the skills.
What’s the next right step for him?
Thanks!”
joni

My site is focused on becoming a firefighter in California, so depending on how differently things are run in Arizona (I’m a wildcat by the way – UofA alumni) my answers to you may be a little off.

You mention that your friend has taken “Fireman 1 and 2″. I’m not sure if you mean fire science classes at a college, or something else. In general Firefighter I and II accreditation means that somebody has graduated from a fire academy and has worked as a firefighter for either 6 months full time, or 1 year part time. Currently I am working toward my firefighter I at the Cordelia Fire Dept in Fairfield, CA. Cordelia is a volunteer fire department and is a great place to get both experience and training, and ultimately my firefighter I certificate. Has your friend done this?

If not, I assume he’s taking classes, which is great! You also mentioned he got his EMT license which is essential to moving forward in a firefighting career. If the budget cuts have forced the cancellation of classes at his local college, have him consider another school or even take classes online. I haven’t looked into online programs (though it’s a great idea for a blog post), but I know there are number of school available with fire programs online.

I’d also urge him to get a job as an EMT (has he taken his National Registry exam yet?) for the experience. Also have him look into local “Explorer” programs with local fire departments, or even volunteer or reserve positions depending on the level of experience and training he’s gotten so far.

If I misunderstood what he’s done, please let me know and I’ll try and give a better answer, but this should be a good start for him. Additionally, if he hasn’t been through a fire academy, look into that as well.

Hope this helps!
- Josh

http://www.sprfd.org

Great site… I found it randomly on a post you put on facebook. (on the firecareers fan site.