WILDLAND FIRE ACADEMY

Future Fire Academy offers multiple training formats to fit a variety of schedules and locations, including 6-week academies, 8-weekend academies, intensive weekday academies, and other specialized training opportunities throughout California.

Our academies combine classroom instruction with hands-on field training, providing students with the knowledge, skills, and certifications needed to pursue careers in wildland firefighting, forestry, fuels reduction, conservation, emergency services, and related industries.

Depending on the academy you choose, training may be held on weekends, weekdays, or in an immersive residential format. Typical training days run from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM and include both classroom education and practical field exercises designed to prepare students for the demands of the profession.

Students have the opportunity to earn nationally recognized certifications that qualify them to apply for entry-level positions with federal, state, local, private, and seasonal fire and forestry agencies.

The full value of the training and certifications provided exceeds $4,500. Through scholarships, workforce development funding, grants, and community partnerships, many participants qualify for reduced tuition or full tuition assistance, making the program accessible to those committed to pursuing a career in the fire service.

Whether you are beginning your career, changing professions, or looking to gain the certifications needed for employment, Future Fire Academy provides the training, mentorship, and pathway to help you succeed.

How to Apply

Joining Future Fire Academy is a straightforward process. Follow the steps below to begin your journey toward a career in the fire service.

Step 1: Complete the Interest Form

Submit our online Interest Form to be added to our applicant database. Be sure to select the academy location you are interested in (Sacramento, Los Angeles, Santa Rosa, or another available academy).

Step 2: Complete Your Enrollment Forms

After submitting your Interest Form, you will receive an email containing your enrollment documents. Review, sign, and return all required forms promptly to continue the application process.

Step 3: Complete the Required Prerequisite Coursework

Once your enrollment forms have been received, you will be sent access to the required prerequisite coursework.

Required Prerequisite Courses (7 Total)

Important: Interviews for Future Fire Academy are based on the successful completion of these prerequisite courses. Please email each certificate to us as soon as you complete it so we can verify your progress.

Step 4: Interview

Once interviews begin for your selected academy, qualified applicants will receive a scheduling link to participate in an interview with our staff.

Step 5: Physical Examination

Applicants who receive a conditional offer of acceptance must obtain a medical physical examination using the required Future Fire Academy medical clearance form before the academy begins.

Step 6: Attend Mandatory Orientation

All accepted cadets are required to attend a mandatory orientation prior to the first day of the academy. During orientation, you will receive important information regarding academy expectations, schedules, uniforms, equipment, and Day One requirements.

Welcome to Future Fire Academy

Once all requirements have been completed and verified, you'll be ready to begin your Future Fire Academy experience and take the first step toward a career in wildland firefighting and related professions.