Five firefighters in uniform gathered in a small circle, with a firefighting truck displaying South Piedmont's 'SP' logo visible in the background

Firefighting

Skills Development

Fuel Your Firefighting Career Here

As a firefighter, you’ll make a lifesaving difference for our community every single day. Whether battling blazes, providing urgent medical aid, or assisting in natural disasters, you’ll be on the front lines, ensuring the safety and well-being of those in need.

At South Piedmont, we take pride in our long-standing tradition of excellence in firefighting training. When you’re ready to take the next step toward a career of bravery and service, we’ll be here — standing by, ready to welcome you into our fire family.

Our Firefighter Certification Courses include:

FF General and Communications

FF Fireground Ops 1

FF Fireground Ops 2

FF Fireground Ops 3

FF Fireground Ops 4

FF Fireground Ops 5

FF Fireground Ops 6

FF Fireground Ops 7

FF Fireground Ops 8

FF Fireground Ops 9

FF Rescue Ops 1

FF Fire and Life Safety Initiatives

HM Ops

Mayday / Safety & Survival

Traffic Incident Management

FF/TR Emergency Medical Care

Our Rescue Certification Courses include:

TR Intro Course

TR Rope Rescue Series

TR Rope Rescue Awareness

TR Rope Rescue Operations

TR Rope Rescue Technician

TR Structural Collapse Series

TR Confined Space Series

TR Passenger Vehicle Rescue Series

TR Passenger Vehicle Awareness

TR Passenger Vehicle Operations

TR Passenger Vehicle Technician

TR Heavy Vehicle Series

TR Wilderness Search & Rescue Series

TR Trench Rescue Series

TR Machinery Rescue Series

TR Surface Water Series

TR Swift Water Series

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The Program Options

Varies
The North Carolina Firefighter Certification program is designed to provide aspiring firefighters with the essential skills and knowledge required to pursue a career in firefighting. This program offers a flexible training pathway, allowing you to complete component courses in any order.  Aspiring firefighters ages 15 to 17 may participate in all NC Firefighter Certification courses except FF Fireground Ops 9.

Firefighter I & II IFSAC Certification is obtained by successful completion of all 16 classes and requirements set forth by NCOSFM Fire and Rescue Commission.

Graduates of the program can pursue careers as firefighters in various settings, including municipal fire departments, industrial fire brigades, and other emergency response organizations. This certification serves as a stepping stone for further advancement in the field of firefighting and emergency services.

Mode

In-person

Prerequisites

None

Varies
The North Carolina Fire & Rescue Certifications program is designed to provide comprehensive training and certification for individuals seeking to advance their careers in fire and rescue services. This program includes a variety of specialized certifications, ensuring that professionals are well-equipped to handle diverse emergency situations and leadership roles.

Graduates of the program can pursue advanced careers in various settings, including municipal fire departments, industrial fire brigades, and other emergency response organizations. These certifications serve as a foundation for further advancement in the field of fire and rescue services, including leadership roles and specialized positions.

Mode

In-person

Prerequisites

None

Varies
The North Carolina Technical Rescuer program is designed to provide comprehensive training for those seeking to specialize in technical rescue operations. This program will equip you with the skills and knowledge required to perform complex rescues in various challenging environments.

Graduates of the program can pursue careers as technical rescuers in various settings, including municipal fire departments, industrial rescue teams, and other emergency response organizations. This certification serves as a foundation for further advancement in the field of technical rescue and specialized emergency services.

Mode

In-person

Prerequisites

None

Varies
The North Carolina Community College System (NCCCS) offers a comprehensive range of Fire/Rescue Training Courses designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge required to excel in fire and rescue services. These courses provide foundational and advanced training for aspiring and current firefighters and rescue personnel.

Note: These courses are not tied to NC State Fire and Rescue Commission Certifications and do not transmit to OSFM.

Mode

In-person

Prerequisites

None

Varies
The North Carolina Emergency Management Courses program is designed to provide comprehensive training for those seeking to specialize in emergency management and disaster response. This program will equip you with the skills and knowledge required to effectively manage and respond to various emergencies and disasters.

Note: These courses are not tied to NC State Fire and Rescue Commission Certifications and do not transmit to OSFM.

Mode

In-person

Prerequisites

None

Varies
The Fire Inspector program is designed to provide comprehensive training for individuals seeking to become certified fire inspectors and for current inspectors looking to enhance their skills through continuing education. This program will equip you with the knowledge and expertise required to conduct fire inspections, ensure code compliance, and promote fire safety in various settings.

Graduates of the program can pursue careers as fire inspectors in various settings, including municipal fire departments, government agencies, private sector companies, and insurance firms. This certification serves as a foundation for further advancement in the field of fire inspection and code enforcement.

Mode

In-person

Prerequisites

None

16


South Piedmont’s fire training program consists of 16 courses.

Certified


After completing all 16 courses, students are qualified for state firefighter certification.

11%


Growth in firefighter jobs expected in Anson and Union counties through 2034 (Lightcast data, 2024)

Our Grads are Answering the Call

Whether it’s a house fire, a car accident, or another emergency in Anson or Union County, chances are a South Piedmont firefighter training graduate will be among the first on the scene —ready to respond with skill, courage, and dedication.

Our graduates serve in fire departments and emergency agencies throughout our community— and far beyond. No matter where their careers take them, they carry with them a rock-solid foundation built through expert instruction, hands-on training, and an unwavering support system.

At South Piedmont, we don’t just train firefighters— we shape leaders in the fire service. If you’re ready to answer the call, we’re ready to prepare you for this noble and rewarding career.

South Piedmont firefighting student holding his helmet.
Olivia Geese in front of a fire truck.

It’s Not a Program, It’s a Family

The instructors and training staff have been excellent. They have made it their mission to prepare every student for each test and skill evaluation. All I’ve ever wanted to do is make an impact on the community and help others. I’m thankful for South Piedmont, all my instructors, and my fellow classmates. Thanks to them, I have the skills and confidence to pursue a career in the fire service. Knowing I can always count on them, we can all do great things.

Olivia Geese, South Piedmont firefighter training graduate who serves with the Griffith Road Volunteer Fire Department

Get Ready for What Comes Next

Our SP | Career Connector will help you build your resume, prepare for job interviews, and even connect you to hiring managers in our area.

HAVE ANY QUESTIONS?

Get in Touch

We’re excited to talk to you about your future and how we can help you reach your goals. Reach out today!