Those interested in a career of firefighting can enter the field in several ways. Current employees have become firefighters with various working and educational experience. The following are recommendations that will help prepare you for a career in the fire service:

Volunteer Experience: Experience as a volunteer firefighter provides hands-on exposure to situations that are regularly encountered by career firefighters. For information on how to become a volunteer firefighter for Fire District 1, click here. Volunteer Application PDF

College Courses: Many applicants have gone through the Fire Sciences programs at Clatsop Community College, Chemeketa Community College, Portland Community College, or Bates Technical College. Individuals receive their Associates Degree in Fire Science, and are given hands-on, practical education that will prepare them for work in the fire service.
Paramedic Training: The resources of individuals certified as Paramedics are now in greater demand by many fire departments. Individuals may become certified as a paramedic through a two-year program which is offered by institutions such as Tacoma Community College, Northwest Regional Training Center, OHSU, and Chemeketa Community College.