1. WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE WILDLAND FIRE ACADEMY PROGRAM?
A. Completion of the following prior to applying:
- FTEC 044 and
- ONE of the following: WFT101, WFT102, WFT103, WFT104, or WFT105
B. Earn a qualifying time on the Mandatory Pack Test. In preparation, begin a very active physical conditioning program. See: NFIC Fire Fit Program
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.
| Monday, September 21st @ 7pm-9pm | Friday, October 2nd @ 5pm-7pm |
| Saturday, October 24th @ 10am-12pm | Friday, November 6th @ 5pm-7pm |
B. Download and complete the Wildland Fire Academy Application – Class 24
*** Spring 2021 (Class 24) ***
(Academy Dates: February 1 – April 10, 2021)
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?
RHC-WFA Program Policy & Procedures Manual
A. You will probably be challenged more, both mentally and physically than by any other class you’ve taken. You’ll run more and work harder than you knew you could.
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.
