Are you a fire service professional looking to become a leader in the fire and emergency services field? The College of Western Idaho’s Fire Service Management program’s curriculum is based on...
CWI Fire Service Technology
Overview
Are you interested in becoming a full-time or volunteer firefighter or looking to formalize your structural fire training in an accredited program? The College of Western Idaho's Fire Service Technology program will prepare you for opportunities as a full-time or volunteer firefighter and provide professional development for the career firefighter.
The curriculum is based on the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards, the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC) requirements, and the National Fire Academy’s (FESHE) Fire and Emergency Services Higher Education Model. Local fire department trainers and command staff assisted in the development of the curriculum and will also instruct in the program.
The program focuses on teaching you to analyze and solve problems in firefighting based on real-world situations and scenarios. You will be presented with the highest level of classroom instruction, hands-on demonstrations, and will participate in live burns. Also, you will enroll in a co-requisite physical fitness course designed specifically for firefighters.
The College of Western Idaho’s Fire Service Technology degree and certificates are accredited through the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC).
Get Started Today
The CWI Fire Service Technology program is where you'll start your career in the firefighting industry. Complete this form as your first step to get started.For question or help, email or call 208.562.2671.
There are multiple pathways you can choose from to meet your career and educational goals in the Fire Service Technology program. Complete the Get Started form above to start the process and discuss your goals with a CWI representative.
- Associate of Arts degree, a two year comprehensive program. – AA Plan of Study
- Basic Technical Certificate 1, a six month focused program on analyzing and solving problems in firefighting activities with hands-on training and classroom instruction. – BTC 1 Plan of Study
- Basic Technical Certificate 2, a 12 month program focused the National Fire Academy FESHE curriculum including emergency service operations, building construction, fire prevention, and fire protection systems. – BTC 2 Plan of Study
- Intermediate Technical Certificate, an 18 month program building upon the Basic Technical Certificate 1 and 2 with hands-on and classroom training. – ITC Plan of Study
Passing and retention rates for the CWI Fire Service Technology program certificate and degree offerings.
Application Process and Requirements
The Fire Service Technology program has a special application process. Follow the steps below to get started.
Step 1: Contact the Fire Service Technology program by completing the Get Started form above.
Step 2: Once contacted to set up an appointment, be prepared to discuss your career goals. Our team can help align your goals with the program's degree and certificate offerings.
Step 3: Complete the program's supplemental application provided to you based on your chosen pathway.
Step 4: Complete the CWI Admission Application.
Note:
The Fire Service Technology BTC 1 has an additional requirement to pass the National Testing Network (NTN) test for "Public Safety Jobs - Firefighter”, available during one time period per year.
- Open January through early March 2024 – CWI Fall 2022 FIRE 101 Test.
- Completing the practice tests is recommended. Practice tests are available through the National Testing Network.
For questions or assistance, email or call 208.562.2671.
Find information on requirements, costs of attendance and financial aid here.
Mission
The College of Western Idaho’s Fire Service Technology program prepares students for opportunities as a full-time or volunteer firefighter, and professional development for the active firefighter by formalizing your education and work experience.
Why This Program
The curriculum is based on National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards and the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC) requirements, and the National Fire Academy’s (FESHE) Fire and Emergency Services Higher Education Model. The local fire department trainers and command staff who assisted in the development of the curriculum will also provide the instruction.
What You Will Learn to Do
- Be equipped with the ethical reasoning skills and moral behavior associated with firefighting.
- How to successfully fit into the diverse culture of the Fire Service and understand the value of a firefighter in an organization.
- Possess the information, tools, and knowledge on how to approach the diversity of the work that a firefighter faces.
- Possess the information, tools, and knowledge on how they fit into the para-military organization of a fire department, how to follow as a new firefighter, and grow into leadership positions.
- Possess the information, tools, and knowledge to keep up to date with current tactical practices, national standards, and future advancements in the field of firefighting.
- Use problem solving skills to identify numerous ways to complete tasks with resources available, reflect on outcomes and suggest improvement plans in firefighting.
- Take on challenging tasks to create effective systems and programs in firefighting.
- Be prepared to pass both written and practical skills examinations administered by the College, State, and any appropriate Certification Accreditation Entity (e.g., IFSAC, FST, CPAT).
Additional Opportunities
- An Associate of Arts in Fire Service Technology is transferrable to four-year institutions, like Idaho State University, Boise State University, or Eastern Oregon University, for those who wish to pursue a bachelor's degree.
- Curious what you can do with a degree in Fire Service Technology? Visit How to Become a Firefighter to learn more.
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Respectful Community
College of Western Idaho is committed to maintaining a Respectful Community by providing equal opportunity for all individuals and does not discriminate in services, benefits, or activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability status, veteran status, age, or any other legally protected status. More on Title IX
News and Blogs
College of Western Idaho Fire Service Technology and Law Enforcement students paid tribute and honored the lives affected by the tragic events of Sept. 11, 2001, at a Memorial Ceremony.
Seventeen Fire Service Technology students participated in a graduation ceremony at the Nampa Civic Center on Dec. 14.
CWI’s Fire Service Technology Program is one step closer to being one of 30 institutions in the nation to have earned an accreditation seal by the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress.
College of Western Idaho’s Fire Service Technology and Practical Nursing programs will honor their Fall 2022 graduates with ceremonies.
Fire Service Technology students are learning wildland firefighting skills through professional training and hands-on experience in the field.
Thank you to the Caldwell Fire Department for their support and dedication to the CWI Fire Service Technology program and its students.