NCTC prepares students for careers in fire fighting
The Fire Science Technology program at NCTC offers various jobs within the First Responder world. Currently, we offer training for Basic Firefighter Certification in accordance of the Texas Commission on Fire Protection (TCFP).
Since January 2014, North Central Texas College (NCTC) has offered students entry into the fire service through its fire science technology program. Each academy covers hands-on training in safety and health, personal protective equipment, rescue and extrication, ventilation, fire detection, CPR, protecting fire scene evidence, and hazardous materials. The Basic Firefighter Certification course is offered every Spring and Fall Semesters. The classes are not shift-based.
“I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t a little nervous the first day of class, but nerves were quickly replaced with excitement after being introduced to our instructors. The fire fighters on staff at NCTC are so passionate about the fire service, and it shows in the classroom and on the training field”. – Kaycee Collins, Fire Academy VII graduate and valedictorian
“The certification is a prerequisite for employment with many departments,” said NCTC’s Fire Science/EMS Program Coordinator, Strider Floyd, who is also a battalion chief with the Flower Mound Fire Department. “The certification enhances an applicant’s resume. It shows initiative and the desire to actually do the job of being a fire fighter. The application process is highly competitive—the more an applicant can do to prepare themselves for the position, the better.”
Kaycee Collins, 22, is grateful for the opportunity to train within the program that prepared her to apply for the fire fighter position she was recently hired for.
“I have never been more happy. It is so satisfying to have my years of hard work pay off,” Collins said.
The next NCTC Fire Fighter Academy starts in August 2017. Information sessions to explain the program requirements and application process, which are a mandatory requirement to enroll in the Fire Academy program, will be held on the Corinth campus every semester For more information, http://www.nctc.edu/HealthSciences/FireScience.aspx or email or call Claudia Leuschner on the next information session and how to reserve your spot at
(940) 498-6237 or cleuschner@nctc.edu.
In the Field with Battalion Chief Strider
Strider Floyd is a battalion chief with the Flower Mound Fire Department and Program Coordinator for NCTC’s Fire Sciences/EMS programs.
Why is it important to earn the Texas Commission on Fire Protection Basic Structure Fire Protection Certification?
To be eligible to test with many of the fire departments in north Texas, candidates must already possess the Texas Commission on Fire Protection – Basic Structure Fire Protection certification and Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) Emergency Medical Technician – Basic certification. The entire process is highly competitive, so having a certification and knowledge in the field gives prospective fire fighters an advantage over other applicants.
How much do fire fighters earn?
According to the United States Department of Labor 2015 Occupational Outlook Handbook, fire fighters can earn an average of $46,870 per year or $22.53 per hour. Every fire department organizes their pay scale and employee benefits a little differently. Texas has the second-highest employment rate of firefighters in the United States, at 27,890 in 2015.
The average yearly salary for Texas fire fighters is higher than the national average, at $49,580, or $23.84 per hour.
What is the Fire Fighter I Academy like?
The Fire Academy is by no means easy. It is challenging, both mentally and physically. The academy is designed as a paramilitary (boot camp) program. Many of the academy instructors are military veterans. All of the instructors are current fire fighters at local departments. Successful graduates will earn a certificate of completion and can apply to take the Texas Commission on Fire Protection – Basic Structure Fire Protection Certification exam. Passing the exam is required to obtain the Basic Structure Fire Protection certification.
Where are jobs available?
The Dallas/Ft. Worth area is one of the fastest growing areas in the state and the nation. With this growth comes the need for more fire stations to meet the needs of the public safety. These new stations require fire fighters for staffing. Current estimates show the creation of over 300 new fire fighter positions in the north Texas area in the next 3 to 5 years. This estimate does not take in account the number of positions that come available due to attrition.
What is it like to be a fire fighter?
Being a fire fighter is the most rewarding job in the world. Every day is different and you make a difference in people’s lives. You train constantly, meet great people, serve as a role model for children, enjoy working closely with coworkers, and are given many educational opportunities. Fire fighters respond to fires, medical calls, natural disasters, car accidents, water rescues, specialized rescues, urban search and rescue, and various other emergency situations. Fire fighters are public servants who strive to assist and serve their community or anyone in need. Being a fire fighter can be physically and emotionally challenging. Fire fighters see things that most people should never see. They respond in times of need and sometimes, that need is not pleasant.
How do I enroll?
Information sessions are held each semester. Attendance at an information session is mandatory. All applicants must apply to NCTC. Participants must be 18 years old, have a physical examination and a medical clearance from a physician. Current immunizations, background check and drug-screening are required. For more information, visit http://www.nctc.edu/HealthSciences/FireScience.aspx or call
(940) 498-6237.