Q. How do I get to the Academy?

From I-80 exit onto Watt Ave. North
Turn Left on Peacekeeper Way
Go through first stop light
The Wildland Fire Training and Conference Center is on the right just before the second stop light

Our address is:
Wildland Firefighter Apprenticeship Program
3237 Peacekeeper Way
McClellan, CA 95652

Q. What airport should I fly into?

You should fly into the Sacramento International Airport ( SMF ). Please make sure that we get a copy of your itinerary so that we are there to pick you up.

Q. Do I need to bring my own sheets, pillow, towel, or alarm clock?

Sheets, a blanket, comforter, and a pillow will be provided for you. You will need to bring your own towel and alarm clock.

Q. How do I apply?

Please see our Recruitment page for more information on applying.

Q. When is my Academy?

Academy dates can be found in the Academy section of the site under Dates.

Q. What uniforms components are required for the Academy?

A list of required uniform components can be found in the Basic and Advanced Academy Letters.

For the Basic Academy Forest Service and BLM students will need:

• 2 each -short sleeve uniform shirt (polo style not allowed)
• 2 pair - field uniform trousers (not nomex, Academy preference will be the dark green for FS employees)
• 2 each - name plate (1 ea. for shirt and jacket)
• 1 each - agency badge
• 1 each - uniform belt
• 1 each - 3-season jacket
• 1 each - agency ball cap (optional)
• 1 pair - shoes (black or dark brown, no tennis shoes)

For the Advanced Academy Forest Service and BLM students will need:

• 1 each -short sleeve uniform shirt (polo style not allowed)
• 1 each - long sleeve uniform shirt
• 2 pair - field uniform trousers (not nomex, Academy preference will be the dark green for FS employees)
• 2 each - name plate (1 ea. for shirt and jacket)
• 1 each - agency badge
• 1 each - uniform tie (solid color, not striped)
• 1 each - uniform belt
• 1 each - 3-season jacket
• 1 each - agency ball cap (optional)
• 1 pair - shoes (black or dark brown, no tennis shoes)

Crewbosses, staff, and instructors are also required to wear uniforms. They should have the same uniform components that are required for Advanced Academy students.

Q. What kind of shape do I need to be in for the Academy?

All apprentices must successfully pass the pack test at the arduous level prior to attending the academy. Students should strive to arrive at the academy able to meet the minimum recommended fitness standards put forth by renowned work capacity scientist Brian Sharkey in his pamphlet "Fitness and Work Capacity" which are as follows:

• 1.5 mile run in 11:40
• 5 Pull-ups
• 20 Push-ups
• 30 Sit-ups

Students who arrive in shape will have a much better academy experience. We advise students to run on pavement once or twice a week prior to arrival at their academy. Students should also have good running shoes.

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Q. How much experience do I need to be an apprentice?

Because you are making a commitment that will last several years we do recommend that apprentices have some wildland fire experience. Most apprentices had several seasons of fire experience before they were hired into the apprenticeship program, but you are not required to have any experience. You cannot attend the academies until you have 500 hours of wildland fire experience.

Q. Do people ever fail out of the Academy?

Students have been arriving at the academies more prepared than ever. In the 2003 Basic Academies less than 3% of Basic Academy students were removed from the academies for test failure(s). These numbers are very good. We hope that this year there will be no removals for test failures.

You can find more information on our academic standards in the Basic and Advanced Academy letters.

Q. Where can I find a directory for the Apprenticeship Program?

The Apprenticeship Directory can be downloaded from the Program section of this site.

Q. How do I get a copy of my college transcripts?

For academies at McClellan (American River College) visit the college's transcripts information page for instructions.

If you attended the academy at Ft. Hunter Liggett you will need to request your transcripts from Hartnell College.

Q. When can I convert?

The process for conversion may be initiated once you:

Have completed the Basic and Advanced Academies.
Have completed all Related and Supplemental Technical Training.
Have completed all of your Work Process Hours.
Are 2 or more years past your indenture date. (the date your apprenticeship began, this is on your DOL agreement)

Q. My question wasn't answered here. Who can I contact for information?

For questions or comments please contact: