Thank you for your interest in the Fire Academy Program at Imperial Valley College. The Academy came to IVC as a joint effort by the Imperial County Fire Department, IVC, and a team of local fire departments. We are glad to be part of this effort. The Academy prepares the student for a career in fire service. Upon completion, a certificate of completion as a Firefighter I will be issued from IVC.

Success in the Academy will depend on attitude, tenacity, and mental discipline in achieving the goal of firefighting. A firefighter must have good communication skills, demonstrate mechanical aptitude, basic math skills, and ability to understand and learn fire fighting material. In addition, a firefighter must be able to face hazardous, life threatening situations and have coping skills for managing unpleasant and difficult situations. At the same time, they must be team players, and able to get along with a variety of people in close quarters. The ability to follow orders and work in a paramilitary organization is also important. Firefighting is physically demanding and a firefighter must be in excellent physical condition. If this is for you, then we are here for you!

Minimum Requirements:

Students must meet the following requirements to be eligible for the program:

• Aplication Check-off Sheet
• Completion of the application packet
• Meet physical standards
• Be 18 years of age or older
• High School graduate (or completion of GED)
• Pass Written Entrance Exam
• Take IVC Accuplacer Reading Test
• Effective F2012, completion of EMT I (FIRE105 course) will be required before admission.
• Meet with the Nursing/Allied Health Counselor

Entrance Exam:All students must pass a 100-question written entrance exam with 70% or higher to be considered. Study guides will be provided once the application has been received. Students will be notified by the Division Office when the exam is scheduled.

Reading Test:

Students must take the Accuplacer Reading Test through the IVC Assessment Office. A copy of the results is required with the application. You can contact the Assessment Office at 355-6447 for the schedule.

CPR Card:

A copy of the BLS Healthcare Provider (CPR) card is required with the application. If you haven't completed a BLS HCP class, you can contact the IVC Nursing Office for information on future classes.

Physical Training:

Physical training is an important part of the Academy. Students must be in good physical condition before entering the program. Students will be required to get a physical and TB skin test. Physicals will be arranged by the IVC Nursing Office upon acceptance. Physicals are done with the IVC Student Health Center located in the DSPS Department.

Conduct:

It will be expected of students to adhere to strict rules of conduct. Appearance and grooming standards will be enforced. More operations and expectations in this area will be discussed at the beginning of the program.

Application Process:

Firefighter I Program Application Process

A complete application includes:

• Academy Application
• Application Checklist
• Questionnaire
• IVC Webstar transcript
• Copy of high school transcript or diploma or GED
• Copy of EMT I certification (if completed)
• Copy of current AHA BLS Healthcare Provider (CPR) card
• Copy of Accuplacer Reading Test results
• Copy of the Counselor's major sheet

Certificate RequirementsThe courses and requirements described herein are subject to change. Students should consult a counselor and appropriate websites as directed to receive the most current requirements.

Current Students

Academy Handbook

Program Cost

 

Career Opportunities

• Fire Inspectors 33-2021.01*
• Fire Investigators 33-2021.02*
• Forest Fire Inspectors and Prevention Specialists 33-2022.00*
• Forest Fire Fighters 33-2011.02*
• Municipal Fire Fighters 33-2011.01*

*Standard Occupational Classification Code

Industry Certification and Licensure

Resources

Imperial Valley College does not promote nor endorse these web sites. They are provided for your reference and convenience only.

State Fire Training

Department Contacts

The Nursing and Allied Health Office (Rm 2155) is in Building 2100

• Dean, Health & Public Safety
  Tina Aguirre, RN, MSN
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• Fire Coordinator/Instructor
  Alfredo Estrada, Jr.
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• EMS/Fire Staff Secretary
  Sara Wheat
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• Administrative Secretary
  Laura Hartsock
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