The recent wildfires across the country, from California to Hawaii and even North Dakota, have underscored the urgent need for skilled wildland firefighters. These fires, exacerbated by dry conditions and extreme winds, have devastated vast areas, including the Bear Den, Elkhorn, and Williams County fires, which collectively burned through 140,000 acres of North Dakota wildland in October 2024.

Fighting wildfires is inherently dangerous work, making proper training essential. To address this critical need, Bismarck State College is offering Wildland Firefighter Type 2 Training through TrainND Southwest. This certification program requires a 45-hour commitment, providing students with comprehensive on-the-job training for entry-level positions as wildland firefighters.

The Importance of Proper Training

“I always say you take S-130, 190, and then you get a job somewhere and then you learn a bunch on the job training, but it’s this class that helps you kind of get into that,” said Hunter Noor, wildland fire operations AFMO. This training is crucial for firefighters who need to handle fires outside of structures, such as those that ravaged North Dakota last fall.

Brian Ellersick, TrainND manager, emphasized the growing demand for wildland firefighters. “There’s an abundant need for wildland firefighters,” Ellersick stated. “North Dakota Forest Service reached out to us because we have the classrooms, we have the reach, we have the infrastructure to put on the training, and with their expertise, I think we’re able to put together a great product.”

Understanding the Role of Weather in Firefighting

Students in this course are taught how to handle various weather conditions, a critical aspect of wildland firefighting. “Part of the class through S-190 is learning how weather affects fire, so it’s your basic weather, your RH, your winds, your fuels and what that does to fire,” Noor explained. This knowledge is vital for firefighters to predict and manage fire behavior effectively.

For example, during the 2020 California wildfires, firefighters had to contend with extreme heat and dry conditions, making the fires particularly challenging to control. The training at Bismarck State College aims to prepare firefighters for such scenarios, ensuring they are equipped to handle any weather-related challenges.

Career Opportunities and Future Prospects

This certification can be the beginning of a rewarding career in various agencies such as the North Dakota Forest Service, North Dakota Emergency Management, and other state and federal organizations. The demand for wildland firefighters is expected to grow as climate change continues to exacerbate wildfire conditions across the country.

“The fires that took place last fall were made worse by dry conditions and extreme winds,” Ellersick noted. “Students in this course are taught how to handle these situations in any kind of weather.” This training is not just about fighting fires but also about understanding the environmental factors that contribute to their spread.

Registration and Courses

Registration for this class closes on March 28. Those interested can register online or in-person at the National Energy Center of Excellence. The course is designed to provide a solid foundation for those looking to enter the field of wildland firefighting, offering both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

Addressing the Growing Need for Wildland Firefighters

As the frequency and intensity of wildfires increase, the need for well-trained firefighters becomes more pressing. The training offered by Bismarck State College is a step in the right direction, providing a structured program that prepares individuals for the challenges they will face in the field.

Critics might argue that the 45-hour commitment is not sufficient to fully prepare firefighters for the dangers they will encounter. However, the program is designed to be a starting point, with additional on-the-job training provided by agencies like the North Dakota Forest Service.

Looking Ahead

As we look to the future, it is clear that wildland firefighting will continue to be a critical component of disaster management. With the right training and preparation, firefighters can be better equipped to handle the challenges posed by wildfires, protecting both lives and property.