Oregon Firefighter Training
According to U.S. College Search, 10 colleges throughout Oregon offer firefighter training courses. Individuals can take courses as part of a continuing education program or work toward a degree or certificate, which can lead to jobs or supervisory roles at municipal fire departments. State agencies also offer various courses that give firefighters a more in-depth review of critical job responsibilities.
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College Programs
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Comprehensive training programs are offered at Central Oregon Community College, Chemeketa Community College, Clatshop Community College, Eastern Oregon University, Portland Community College, Rogue Community College, Southwestern Oregon Community College, Treasure Valley Community College, Umpqua Community College and Western Oregon University. Each college offers an associate's degree and/or certificate option.
Coursework
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As in other states, an associate of applied science degree in fire protection technology represents a common path for fire technology students in Oregon. Courses include firefighting strategies, fire prevention, building construction, mathematics, general psychology, sprinklers and fire protection law. Management certificate programs are another common patch for fire technology students. Coursework may include expository writing, inspections, codes, firefighting strategies, instructional methodology and fire service supervision. Both options typically call for a mix of classroom and laboratory training.
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Benefits
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Obtaining a degree or certificate in fire protection technology carries several benefits. Students graduating through these programs are well prepared for state and national certification. Programs tailor their courses according to standards of the National Fire Protection Association and National Fire Academy; courses are taught by qualified instructors who understand the complexity and challenges of the career.
Additional Training
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Many municipal fire departments, especially in rural areas, have ongoing local training efforts through mock exercises. Also, the state of Oregon offers training opportunities through the Oregon Public Safety Academy's Fire Training Section. Courses vary throughout the year and usually target one aspect of fire protection, such as on-scene incident command, light-aircraft emergencies, leadership success, coping with stress, hazardous materials and firefighting safety. The Oregon office of the State Fire Marshall offers similar targeted courses.
Job Opportunities
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Formal training programs through community colleges prepare firefighters for full-time work at local emergency agencies and management roles with the Oregon Department of Forestry or state fire marshal's office. Because the fire season ranges from June to September, many firefighting jobs are seasonal. However, the pay is based on experience. The more training and qualifications a firefighter receives through any organization, the better the wage for hourly positions.
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References
- Photo Credit fire & rescue image by Jim Parkin from Fotolia.com
