Firefighter I Certification Training
Degree Type
State Certification Training
Time to Complete
Less than 1 year
Start Date
August / January / May
How You'll Learn
Daytime
Evening
Learn, develop and practice the practical skills required to perform as a firefighter, while also receiving the didactic theory required to support those skills and related firefighting functions. This program includes Firefighter I and Hazardous Materials Operations, meets the NFPA 1001 Standard for Firefighter Professional Qualificiations and extends past the entry-level courses to better prepare the student to function as a firefighter. This program also provides the necessary education and skills to be eligible for WTCS Firefighter I certification testing.
Please note: The Firefighter I Certification Training Program is a physically demanding and vigorous program in and out of the classroom. Plan to have a fitness regimen in place and spend 1-2 hours preparing and studying outside of class for every one hour spent in class.
Completing the Firefighter I Certification Training Program
Connect and Register
- Begin to connect with local fire departments regarding employment, internships and affiliation. Being affiliated with a fire department can help support your education both academically and financially.
- Register for a course through the WCTC Fire & EMS Training Center. You will be prompted to sign up for a Program Expectation Session during registration. View available courses.
Before Beginning the Firefighter I Program
- Attend a mandatory Program Expectation Session.
- Based on your employment and affiliation with a fire department, you may need to complete the following:
- Sign up for and attend a Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) Fire Gear Fitting
- Complete a Firefighter Certification Medical Evaluation
- Purchase firefighter-specific equipment
- Purchase textbooks and classroom dress code items
After the Firefighter I Program Completion
- Take the Firefighter I and Hazardous Materials Operations written state exams
- Take the Firefighter I practical state exam
- Apply for certificates from the National Fire Academy for each core fire course.
Program Details
Contact Us
Questions? We'd love to help! Connect with the Fire & EMS Training Center at fireems@wctc.edu.
Potential Careers
If you're physically fit, devoted to saving lives and handle intense situations well, a career in firefighting may be right for you. Firefighters must communicate with other members of their team and be flexible and adaptable. They need to have a take-charge attitude and make critical decisions in life-threatening conditions.
- Firefighter
High School Eligibility
This program is open to qualified high school applicants. Please note:
- You must be at least 17 years old to participate in this program.
- You must be at least 18 years old to take the Wisconsin state firefighter exams.
- You are required to obtain state certification within two years of completing this program.
Career Salaries
$39,100-$66,400 annually
Salary range estimate is based on wages for related occupations in Waukesha County as reporterd by Lightcast. Individual wages may vary based on experience, industry, location and specific job requirements. Find our graduates' entry wages in the most recent Graduate Success Report.
Physical Fitness Requirements
There are no fitness requirements to enter the Firefighter I Certification Training Program. However, careers in the fire industry are physically demanding and many employers may require you to complete one of the following tests. It is important to establish a consistent fitness routine to stay conditioned.
Common Firefighter Physical Tests
- Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT): An eight-event times, pass/fail course that includes a stair climb, hose drag, equipment carry, ladder raise, forcible entry, search, rescue and ceiling breach/pull.
- Firefighter Physical Fitness Test (FPFT): Focuses on five key areas: deadlift (strength), push-ups (endurance), sprint-drag-carry (anaerobic capacity), plank (core) and a 1.5-mile run (aerobic capacity).
- Wildland Pack Test: A three-mile hike with a 45-pound pack completed in 45 minutes or less.
- Physical Abilities Test (PAT): Similar to CPAT, often featuring a 50-pound vest plus an extra 25 pounds during a stair climb, focusing on a continuous, timed, eight-station circuit.
Key Fitness Components and Benchmarks
Tests evaluate specific, job-related physical skills, such as:
- Cardiovascular endurance: running or jogging, often including stair machines while wearing weighted gear
- Upper/lower body strength: evaluated via deadlifts, shoulder presses and simulated, high-intensity activity
- Functional movement: tasks like crawling, pulling, pushing and lifting, which are crucial for navigating hazardous enviornments
Tips for Success
- Train with weight: Utilize a weighted vest or specialized equipment to simmulate the 50-75 pounds of extra weight of carrying gear and tools.
- Practice specific movements: Focus on lower body lifts, like deadlifts, overhead strength and cardiovascular stamina.
- Consistency: Train at least 3-4 times per week, combining weight training with high-intensity interval training (HIIT).
Financial Aid
This program does not qualify for financial aid.
Accreditation
The U.S. Fire Administration’s National Fire Academy (NFA) – Fire and Emergency Services Higher Education program has determined that this program meets the minimum standards of excellence established by FESHE professional development committees and the NFA. WCTC’s program is one of just two in the state to hold this recognition.
What Makes This Program Unique
- WCTC is designated as a Regional Fire Training Center and offers all levels of Wisconsin Firefighter Certification training.
- Upon program completion, students are prepared to take the Wisconsin State Firefighter I Certification exams to become firefighters.
- The program is taught by subject matter experts, including several officers from local fire departments.
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More Credit Opportunities
High School Dual Credit
Dual enrollment offers high school students an opportunity to get a head start in high-demand fields while earning college credits.
Credit for Prior Learning
You may have the opportunity to obtain credit for the college-level skills and knowledge you've already acquired through prior coursework, work experience and more.
Transfer Opportunities After WCTC
WCTC has credit transfer agreements with many four-year institutions that allow our degree graduates to transfer credits into a baccalaureate program, often at junior-level standing.