College of the Sequoias
Fire Technology Program

Fire Science Education

Education is our mission….Careers are our goal.

The Fire Technology curriculum at College of the Sequoias provides professional training for students interested in entering the fire service profession. The program provides the in-service student with the attitudes, aptitudes, skills and knowledge of professional fire protection. The pre-employment program qualifies students for successful employment and careers in organized fire departments and related fire protection fields.

Firefighting is undergoing a profound shift these days. It's no longer so much a trade as it is a profession. Fire service agencies are demanding a college education. Though a Firefighter 1 Certificate and EMT Certificate meet minimum qualifications to apply for employment with most agencies, it is the people with AA degrees who are getting the entry level jobs. Higher education is essential for fire chiefs who must deal with budgets, personnel, liability and other complex issues.

Men and women qualified for employment in the fire service profession possess...

• The ability to carry a great deal of responsibility and handle difficult emergency situations.
• The ability to communicate effectively with persons of various cultural, economic, and ethnic backgrounds.
• The desire and ability to adapt to technological and sociological changes.
• The mental capacity to learn a wide variety of subjects quickly and correctly.
• The emotional maturity to remain calm and objective and provide leadership in emotionally charged situations.
• The physical and mental endurance to perform exacting duties.
• Initiative