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.

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