COLUSA, CA (MPG) – The Colusa County Office of Education is accepting applications for its 2026-27 Fire Academy, offering 25 students an opportunity to complete 400 hours of firefighter training.
Applications will be accepted through 4 p.m. Oct. 13. A screening panel will review completed applications, with priority registration given to graduating high school seniors. Selected applicants will be notified Oct. 24.
The academy is open to adults and high school seniors who meet the program’s age requirements. High school seniors interested in participating should contact their school counselor or administrator about enrolling in the Career Technical Education course.
Students will train to Firefighter 1 standards during 20 weekends of instruction. Training may include fire attack strategies, wildland fire control, interior structure operations, fire line construction, fire engine operations, confined space awareness, hazardous materials certification and firefighter safety.
Students who successfully complete the program will receive fire service certifications and a CCOE/CTE Certificate of Achievement. The program also provides eligibility to apply with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, according to the application materials.
Selected candidates must complete a physical fitness test Nov. 7 and attend a mandatory orientation in November. The academy requires students to perform physically demanding firefighter training, including carrying equipment, pulling hose, climbing ladders, working on uneven terrain and operating while wearing firefighting gear.
Classes will run from January through May 16, 2027, at the Education Village, 499 Marguerite St. in Williams. Friday sessions are scheduled from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., while Saturday and Sunday sessions run from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Tuition is $3,000, with uniforms estimated at $400 and gear rental at approximately $900. Students may qualify for scholarships, with additional information provided during orientation.
The Colusa County One-Stop may also provide assistance with some training expenses for eligible participants through its workforce programs. Applicants seeking assistance must complete the One-Stop eligibility process, which includes income and employment information.
Applications must be completed in full and submitted to the Colusa County Office of Education Educational Services office at 499 Marguerite St., Suite C, in Williams.
Additional information and application materials are available at adult.ccoe.net/fire-academy. Questions may be directed to the Colusa County Adult School at 530-473-1350.