Fire Science Technology

WHAT IS 'FIRE SCIENCE TECHNOLOGY (FIST)'?

Firefighters are the public's first line of defense against loss of life and property. They are frequently the first emergency responders on scene at accidents, ready to treat injuries and perform vital functions. While firefighters are most often thought of as those who control and extinguish fires, much of their work focuses on prevention, providing public education programs on control and extinguishment of fires, as well as on enforcing laws and regulations that support a safe environment. In addition, they respond to non-fire emergencies such as terrorist activity, hazardous materials incidents, vehicle accidents, water main breaks and utility emergencies. They must be physically fit and able to deal with people in crisis. Their work environment is oftentimes stressful and dangerous; therefore, the effective firefighter must be a critical thinker and an excellent communicator. Education in the field serves to produce a well-trained individual who is capable of handling the emergency they're facing.

The Fire Science Technology program at Metropolitan Community College focuses on the studies that will provide the successful graduate with the knowledge and tools to perform as a firefighter as effectively as possible.

For an MCC Fire Science program overview, visit the MCC YouTube Channel.

IS IT FOR YOU?

If you have a motivation to serve, effective communication skills, a strong work ethic, honesty and integrity, then firefighting may be for you. All courses will be held at the Applied Technology Center and books must be purchased at Fort Omaha Campus. 

JOBS AND SALARY EXPECTATIONS

Employment of workers in fire fighting occupations is expected to grow by 5 percent over the 2014-24 decade, which is as fast as the average for all occupations. Most job growth will stem from volunteer firefighting positions being converted to paid positions. The national median for salary is $46,870.

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

Fire Science Technology (FSAAS) - associate in applied science, provides a unique opportunity to build professional skills and expand career possibilities

Winter 2020 CLASSES (Online):

• Principles of Emergency Services

• Building Construction

• Occupational Safety & Health for Emergency Responders

• Fire Protection Systems

• Principles of Fire & Emergency Services Safety & Survival

• Introduction to Fire & Emergency Services Administration

• Strategy & Tactics

Class Schedules

• Find quarter class schedules

• Application

NOTE: For accommodations concerning the application above, please contact our Disability Support Services.

OTHER RESOURCES:

• First Responders Foundation

• Nebraska Fire Marshal Office

• Iowa Fire Marshal Office

• International Association of Firefighters

• National Volunteer Fire Council

• National Fire Academy

• National Fallen Firefighters Foundation

• Why I Chose Fire: Next Generation Career Video

MCC FIRE SCIENCE TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM RECEIVES FESHE RECOGNITION

The FESHE Recognition Certificate is an acknowledgement that particular collegiate division of emergency services degree programs meet the minimum standards of excellence established by FESHE professional development committees and the National Fire Academy.

These regionally accredited colleges and universities have demonstrated a commitment to the nationally recognized FESHE model of standardized professional development education criteria. At present, FESHE has concentrated on degree programs that emphasize firefighting response, fire prevention and fire administration and emergency medical services management degree programs.

Current students enrolled in these FESHE courses can obtain a FEMA student ID. Once you receive your student ID, then you need to complete the application. Once the application is completed and printed, please either submit to your Instructor or forward to the Fire Science Department located at Applied Technology Center, office 110.

FIRE SCIENCE CAREER ACADEMY

MCC offers a high school career academy open to all junior and senior high schoolers attending from any one of our four-county area high schools. If you, or a high schooler you know, is interested in pursuing a career in firefighting, have them contact their school's career/guidance counselor for an application, or contact program director Jeff Strawn at 531-MCC-5825 or email jgstrawn@mccneb.edu.

​PROGRAM FACULTY