Three Firefighters in full gear inside of a building putting out a fire. Firefighter closest to the camera is holding a hose spraying water off screen.

Fire Service Certification Academy

Mid-State’s Fire Service Certification Academy is an innovative “school-to-work” program that allows Marshfield area high school students to prepare for fire protection and EMS careers while saving money on future college tuition, including Mid-State’s Fire Service Certification technical diploma. 

Developed in partnership with Marshfield area school districts and Marshfield Fire and Rescue, this program combines Mid-State fire and EMS classes for college credit with hands-on department shadowing, giving students a competitive edge as they prepare for a career in fire protection.


Fire Up Your Future: Fire Academy Experience Day

FREE Event | Food • Demos • Career Exploration • T-Shirts
Do you have what it takes to run toward the flames when others run away? Are you ready to rise with purpose and help protect your community?

When

Tuesday, August 12
4:30  –  6:30 p.m.

Where

Wisconsin Rapids Campus

What to Expect

  • Live Fire Demos – Watch local departments in action
  • Firefighting Career Exploration – Learn what it takes to serve and protect
  • Tuition Support Info – Discover grant-funded training opportunities for students in South Wood County
  • Free Brats & Hot Dogs – Enjoy dinner, on us
  • Fire Safety Tips – Stay safe during Labor Day celebrations
  • Meet the Experts – Chat with instructors, students, local firefighters
  • FREE Applications – Start your journey at the event
  • FREE T-Shirt – When you register by August 8

Who Should Attend?

  • High school students exploring high-demand careers
  • Parents ready to support their teen’s next step
  • Community members interested in fire safety
  • Future firefighters ready to discover their calling

Don’t Miss It!

Mark your calendar for Tuesday, August 12, and register today to lock in your free T-shirt and spot at this powerful event.

Register


 

Students in South Wood County

High school students in South Wood County can also participate in Mid-State’s Fire Service Certification Academy, thanks to a grant from the Legacy Foundation of Central Wisconsin, Inc. Developed in partnership with the Legacy Foundation of Central Wisconsin Inc., this program is similar to the Marshfield Fire Service Certification Academy but with different funding and located in South Wood County. This gives high school students in Nekoosa, Port Edwards, Rudolph, Vesper, and Wisconsin Rapids an opportunity to also jump start their training for a career in fire protection.

Students completing the program will potentially earn credentials and EMT certification, qualifying them immediately for volunteer and possibly paid fire service positions. Classes are scheduled outside normal high school hours, and course sequencing allows students to complete program requirements during their junior and senior years of high school.

The program also includes options for any area high school student to take fire and EMS courses for career exploration or volunteer service.

Local demand for highly skilled firefighters is rising now—get ready to save lives.

Why Start in High School?

  • Save money on college tuition.
  • Graduate from college faster and start your career earlier with many classes already completed during high school.
  • Gain hands-on experience now and start making connections in your local fire department.
  • Possibility to earn a $500 incentive grant for completion of certifications. Ask your College Outreach Coordinator for more information.

Required Academy Courses

  • Basic Firefighting and Hazmat Ops* – 4 credits 
  • Advanced Firefighting – 2 credits 
  • Firefighting Safety and Survival – 2 credits 
  • EMT Basic – 5 credits
  • Mental Wellness and Stress Management – 3 credits