FLAGSTAFF — The Coconino National Forest will host a Women in Wildland Fire boot camp in April of 2024 for individuals interested in exploring a career in wildfire and is currently accepting applications.
Boot camp participants will gain a greater understanding of the challenges and responsibilities of wildland firefighting through sessions conducted both in the classroom and in the field.
Class work will consist of online training modules, where participants will learn about wildland firefighting strategy and safety.
During field training, participants will follow guidelines set by the National Wildfire Coordinating Group to explore firefighting as a career in a hands-on way.
Participants will receive the beginning certifications needed to start a career in wildfire, whether it be as a firefighter or a supportive role.
Applications will be accepted until the cohort is full, and selection for the program will begin Nov. 28, 2023. Applications will be accepted until March 31, 2024, or until the class is full.
Those interested in applying can do so via the Wildland Learning Portal where they will need to create an account and search for R3 FAM Coconino WIWF under the Find Learning, Courses tab to apply.
Online work will need to be completed by March 31, 2024, and one-to-two consecutive in-person field days will take place on the Coconino NF during April.
Applicants must be between 18 and 37 years of age, though exceptions will be considered. Applicants must also be in good mental and physical condition.
The intent of the boot camp is to mentor participants in a supportive, educational environment.
More information about Southwest-area Women in Wildfire programs is available on the Forest Service Region 3 website.
For additional questions please contact Forest Fire Training Center Manager Bill Kuche at william.kuche@usda.gov or 928-606-2438.