Fire Technology
Program Description
At some point in their life, many boys and girls want to be a firefighter. The excitement of red lights, sirens, and a commitment to serve, all play into the attraction. Deep down, firefighters are born with a desire to solve challenges and help those in need. CTEC offers an opportunity to see if a career in firefighting is for you. Classroom instruction, demonstrations, and hands-on skills operations are all a part of the year-long Fire Technology program.
FIRE TECHNOLOGY STUDENTS LEARN:
- SCBA (self-contained breathing apparatus)
- Hazardous materials awareness
- CPR and basic/advanced first aid and life support instruction
- Ladder use and safety
- Hose handling
- Rescue ropes and knots
- Pump operation
- Wildland and ground fires
- Basic hand tool sharpening and use
- Equipment maintenance
- Firefighter survival
- Fire behavior and fire chemistry
- Ventilation
- Oral interview presentation
PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATION OPPORTUNITIES:
Certifications offered to students completing the Fire Technology program include:
- HAZWOPER Awareness Certificate (Hazardous Materials Awareness)
- OSHA Confined Space Awareness Certificate
- First Aid and AHA CPR Certificate
- Basic 32 Wildland Fire Certification (ICS 100, S-130, S-190, Fire Shelters)
- Candidates Physical Ability Test (CPAT)
THINGS TO CONSIDER:
Fire Technology students should have average or better skills in reading and writing. Students should also have a solid attendance record. This is a physically demanding program. Students must be prepared to run, lift, and carry heavy equipment.
HIGH SCHOOL CREDIT AVAILABLE:
Students earn 15 units of elective credit each semester toward their high school graduation.
College prep course. A-G approved. Meets area "G" approval for UC and CSU admissions.
BAKERSFIELD COLLEGE CREDIT AVAILABLE:
This is an actual college-level course. CTEC Fire Technology is a dual enrollment class in conjunction with Bakersfield College. In addition to receiving the above KHSD credit, students may earn 3 college units in FIRE B1 Fire Technology in the first semester and 3 additional units in EMTC B51 Emergency Medical Responder in the second semester.
CAREER PATHWAYS AND RELATED OCCUPATIONS:
This is a career awareness class that instructs students on the basics necessary for entry-level employment. Successful Firefighting students often pursue careers in the following:
- Metro Firefighter
- Wildland Firefighter
- EMT / Paramedic
- Safety Officer
- Fire Dispatch
- Fire Inspectors and Investigator
- Forestry Ranger
- Military