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 you 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.  If you are between the ages of 15 and 17, you 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 the NCOSFM Fire and Rescue Commission.

After graduating from the program, you can pursue a career as a firefighter 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 you with the comprehensive training and certifications you need to advance your career in fire and rescue services. This program includes a variety of specialized certifications, ensuring you are well-equipped to handle diverse emergency situations and leadership roles.

After graduating from this program, you can pursue advanced roles 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.

After graduating from this program, you can pursue a career as a technical rescuer 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.

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 you with the comprehensive training you need 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.

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 those 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.

After graduating from this program, you can pursue a career as a fire inspector 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)

Upcoming Courses

Start DateEnd DateCourse NumberCourseSchedule
11/10/202512/8/2025FIP-3556Hazardous Materials – Operations11/10 – Monday @ Monroe Fire Training Grounds 6:00PM to 10:00 PM
11/12 – Wednesday @ Monroe Fire Training Grounds 6:00PM to 10:00 PM
11/17 – Monday @ Monroe Fire Training Grounds 6:00PM to 10:00 PM
11/20 – Thursday @ Monroe Fire Training Grounds 6:00PM to 10:00 PM
11/25 – Tuesday @ Monroe Fire Training Grounds 6:00PM to 10:00 PM
12/1 – Monday @ Monroe Fire Training Grounds 6:00PM to 10:00 PM
12/3 – Wednesday @ Monroe Fire Training Grounds 6:00PM to 10:00 PM
12/6 – Saturday @ Monroe Fire Training Grounds 8:00AM to 5:00 PM
12/8 – Monday @ OCH – Braswell 2601 6:00PM to 10:00 PM
11/13/202512/11/2025FIP-3048FF Fireground OPS 811/13 – Thursday @ OCH – Braswell 2601 6:00PM to 10:00 PM
11/18 – Tuesday @ Monroe Fire Training Grounds 6:00PM to 10:00 PM
11/26 – Wednesday @ Monroe Fire Training Grounds 6:00PM to 10:00 PM
12/4 – Thursday @ Monroe Fire Training Grounds 6:00PM to 10:00 PM
12/9 – Tuesday @ Monroe Fire Training Grounds 6:00PM to 10:00 PM
12/11 – Thursday @ OCH – Braswell 2601 6:00PM to 10:00 PM
1/6/20261/20/2026FIP-3040FF General and Communications1/6 – Tuesday @ OCH – Braswell 2601 6:00PM to 10:00 PM
1/7 – Wednesday @ OCH – Braswell 2601 6:00PM to 10:00 PM
1/10 – Saturday @ Monroe Fire Training Grounds 8:00AM to 5:00 PM
1/14 – Wednesday @ OCH – Braswell 2601 6:00PM to 10:00 PM
1/15 – Thursday @ Monroe Fire Training Grounds 6:00PM to 10:00 PM
1/20 – Tuesday @ OCH – Braswell 2601 6:00PM to 10:00 PM
1/22/20261/29/2026FIP-3041FF Fireground OPS 11/22 – Thursday @ OCH – Braswell 2601 6:00PM to 10:00 PM
1/24 – Saturday @ Monroe Fire Training Grounds 8:00AM to 5:00 PM
1/26 – Monday @ Monroe Fire Training Grounds 6:00PM to 10:00 PM
1/27 – Tuesday @ Monroe Fire Training Grounds 6:00PM to 10:00 PM
1/29 – Thursday @ OCH – Braswell 2601 6:00PM to 10:00 PM

Our Grads are Answering the Call

Whether it’s a house fire, car accident, or another emergency in Anson or Union counties, 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!