Future Firefighters Wanted

Sonora, CA — Local high school seniors could get a jump on a career path that could lead to a job in the field of firefighting.

It is open enrollment for the Tuolumne County Recreation Department and U.S. Forest Service 2016 Fire Fighter Training Program. Those who pass will get a Basic 32 Certificate and can apply for a position as a wildland firefighter after graduation. Forest Service officials say they are reaching out to area students to broaden their workforce and at the same time offer more opportunities to young people.

To qualify for the training, participants must be 18 to 21 years old and will have received their diploma or an equivalent to that by July 1, 2016. Held during the spring break vacation period, the training also provides transportation to offsite activities such as, the Stanislaus National Forest. Online sign up through the Tuolumne County Recreation Department is required. For more details and to register, click here. Then hit Job Training on the left-hand side.