****Next Wildland Fire Academy Class – Spring 2024****
Please monitor website for updates.
1. WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE WILDLAND FIRE ACADEMY PROGRAM?
A. Completion of the following prior to applying:
- FTEC 044 and
- ONE (1) of the following: WFT101, WFT102, WFT103, WFT104, or WFT105
B. Earn a qualifying time on the MANDATORY Work Capacity Test (WCT). WCT is administered in compliance with NWCG standards for arduous duty. In preparation, begin a very active physical conditioning program. See: https://www.nwcg.gov/term/glossary/work-capacity-test-wct (NWCG Work Capacity Test Standards) and https://www.nifc.gov/about-us/our-partners/blm/training/fitness-challenge (NFIC Fire Fitness Challenge)
2. HOW DO I ENROLL IN THE WILDLAND FIRE ACADEMY?
A. You MUST attend one of the scheduled orientation below. To do so, you first need to complete our college application to get a Student ID number (https://www.riohondo.edu/get-started/). With your (9-digit) SID number, you can then RSVP for one of the dates below by clicking on that date. You will receive the Zoom link the night before. We do encourage you to ask questions so you’ll have a good understanding of what to expect. We want you to succeed.
*Sign- Up Links*
B. WFA APPLICATION – available for download later this year.
C. Download the medical form: OF178-CME. This is the form you will need for your complete physical examination.
3. WHAT CAN I EXPECT DURING THE WILDLAND FIRE ACADEMY?
A. This academy will challenge you both mentally and physically. You’ll run more and work harder than you knew you could.
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- Classroom instruction and block exams will ensure knowledge retention.
- The RHWFA has a RIGOROUS PHYSICAL TRAINING PROGRAM. Students will run trails (not city streets), perform calisthenics, become proficient in wildland fire hand line, complete wildland engine hose evolution, and hike miles of trails under realistic training condition.
B. You will meet a great group of men and women who TRULY desire to obtain fire service careers. Some of them will become your friends for life.
C. The staff will provide a professional, realistic level of training and counseling.
D. You will have the opportunity to join the best crew working for the Angeles National Forest. If you successfully complete the academy and join the Roadrunners you will have taken a giant step in obtaining a fire service career.
E. You will take part in a RIGOROUS PHYSICAL TRAINING PROGRAM. You will run (often on city streets), do calisthenics, drag hose, lift ladders, hike miles over on hillsides and trails, and then you’ll run some more.
