The following trainee positions will be available (if a position is not listed there is not any availability for that specific position). All trainees will work on taskbooks and receive experience in their specific position. To apply click the button below.
The CWFIMA is considered a type 2 incident for training purposes and complexity. All sections at the CWFIMA provide a very realistic experience for all the unit leader and manager positions; including but not limited to mobilization, space allocation and arrangement, set up of the incident facilities, along with participation in planning and strategy meetings.
Plan for long days starting before the AM Operational Period Briefing (days begins at approximately 0630) and ending when the duties for each section are completed for the day (approximately 1800). There will be opportunities for several tasks to be checked off in your initiated Position Task Book (PTB). If you have any questions pertaining to trainee positions please contact us at info@cwfima.com.
Individuals who apply and are selected for either of the Academies will train under a fully qualified Type 2 or 3 Incident Commander. Time is set aside early in the event for trainees to observe; and then be assigned and evaluated on a variety of tasks including but not limited to public speaking at operational briefings, representing the IC function at C&G and Planning meetings, reviewing for completeness and approving daily IAPs, participating in external visits, and resolving related issues should they arise.
Trainees will be scheduled throughout the Academy to spend time with each of the IMT's Section Chiefs and their staff to become familiar with workings of the individual functional areas. Every attempt is made sign off on appropriate tasks in the trainee's Position Task Book. As this is a planned event, no Taskbooks will be completed or recommendations made for final certification.
SOFR trainees will work with all members of the C&G staff on a daily basis to prepare their portions of the incident action plan. Products produced include: 215A, safety message and review of the ICS 206 medical plan. Trainees will also deliver the safety briefing at the Operational period briefing. Other duties include reviewing roads, facilities and field sites for safety issues.
A trainee should expect to be in attendance from the initial kick-off meeting, usually the day prior to the classes starting, and should be available a minimum of four (4) additional days; the duration of the Academy would be preferred. We have two (2) primary objectives: 1) Contributing to the efficiency of the Academy by ensuring the best use of available assisting agency resources and cooperating agency support; and 2) Contributing to the positive public perception of the Academy and the attainment of stakeholder objectives by effectively handling stakeholders and their concerns. Pre-event work may be assigned to trainees, including but not limited to establishing local community contacts, scheduling community meetings, etc. Trainees should be comfortable working with C&G Staff members, speaking during morning briefings, working with vendors, participating in C&G staff meetings, as well as planning meetings. Every attempt will be made to sign off on appropriate tasks in the trainee's Position Task Book. As this is a planned event, no task books will be completed or recommendations made for final certification.
Trainees will have the opportunity to attend the morning C&G Staff Meetings and afternoon Planning Meetings, learning about the IMT structure and how the functions interact with each other. Trainees will be responsible for generating story ideas and deadline writing assignments and photography for the Academy newsletter, The Spot Fire News. This will include contacting instructors and Academy staff, setting up and conducting interviews. It may mean attending evening activities to provide photos or story coverage. PIO trainees may work with Liaison Officer Lead and Trainees to facilitate Open House (or VIP) visits from Community Leaders. Trainees will plan and provide information in a variety of formats for CWFIMA students and faculty including flyers and populating Academy Bulletin Boards. Trainees may also practice social media skills, posting to CWFIMA Twitter, Facebook and other social media accounts. They will learn the proper use of Incident Management forms including General Messages, CTRs and Unit Logs and how to maintain and complete documentation files. If staffing allows, trainees may design and run information 'trap lines' in the community.
The optimal training experience in this All-Hazard, planned event begins with the initial kick-off meeting, usually the day prior to the classes starting, and continues for a minimum of three additional days. Trainees should be prepared to shadow the OSC as needed and then transition into the section lead. Responsibilities will include presenting the Operations Section portions of the Operational Period Briefing, participating in the C&G Staff Meetings, providing inputs for the Incident Action Plan (IAP) (ICS 215 and 215A forms) during the Strategy Meeting, presenting the current and proposed operations at the Planning Meeting, leading Division / Group Supervisors, communicating and coordinating with other sections, and other functions described in the Planning "P" Process (http://www.training.fema.gov/emiweb/is/icsresource/assets/planningp.pdf). The OSC(t) will complete necessary documentation, (ICS 213, 214, etc.) for each operations period. Trainee should bring a valid, properly initiated Position Task Book (PTB) from their home unit, in addition to equipment needed to perform all of the duties of this position.
The optimal training duration of this All-Hazard, planned event is a minimum of four days. During this time, under the direction of the Operations Section Chief (OSC) or trainee, a DIVS(t) will implement the Incident Action Plan (IAP) for each operations period. This trainee will lead, support and maintain close communications with assigned resources to meet the incident objectives, provide timely updates and feedback to the OSC on current progress and anticipated needs for the next operations period. DIVS(t) will complete necessary documentation, (ICS 213, 214, etc.) for each operations period. Trainee should bring a valid, properly initiated Position Task Book (PTB) from their home unit, in addition to equipment needed to perform all of the duties of this position.
A trainee should expect to be in attendance from the initial kick-off meeting, usually the day prior to the classes starting, and should be available a minimum of 4 additional days; longer is better. Expect to shadow the fully qualified PSC for a few operational periods and then transition into running the section including conducting the Operational Period Briefing, facilitating the C&G Staff daily meeting as well as the Planning Meeting. (Often referred to following the Planning P Process) You may be invited into classrooms to explain what a PSC does and how they relate to other positions. You will supervise the unit leaders within the Planning Section. You may facilitate an After Action Review. You will review and approve components of the IAP and assure overall quality control for the document. Anticipate opportunity for several tasks to be checked off in your previously initiated PTB.
This trainee will experience activities similar to an actual incident tracking resources which in this case will be staff, instructors, students, vendors, including classrooms, field trips, drop off & pick up times, lunch times etc. You will prepare the ICS-203 and the ICS-204's for the IAP. You will help prepare and may present the ICS-215. Your overall understanding of the timing, location and sequence of the classes is vital to running a seamless academy. You will help assure a complete and accurate IAP is assembled by end of work day. Anticipate opportunity for several tasks to be checked off in your previously initiated PTB.
The utilization of a SITL varies between academies. Generally it is very useful to have a fully qualified SITL for the summer academy and ample opportunity may exist for a trainee. Various field sites will be utilized and maps are needed to show proximate locations, transportation routes and then the actual site. Additionally site maps may be needed for the ICP and the facility or campus. Sometimes these are readily available; however, edits are common for the maps to "fit" the academy needs. Other map needs always seem to come up and it is possible some on-the-ground signage may be necessary. In contrast, the winter academy usually will be mostly self-contained on a campus and only limited needs for additional maps may come up that local sources can supply. Anticipate opportunity for several tasks to be checked off in your previously initiated PTB.
This is an area where trainees gain experience in a very realistic environment. Paper and electronic database entries will be made (I-Suite). This unit also serves the demobilization function for the academy. The SCKN / DEMOB unit is generally located in a prominent high traffic area and may often-times serve as an information center for classroom locations, start times, etc. At times lines may form and remaining calm and organized is critical to perform this function. Anticipate opportunity for several tasks to be checked off in your previously initiated PTB.
Established filing procedures are followed with hanging files and labels. A trainee gains valuable experience in maintaining an organized paper and electronic file. You will also be responsible for assembly of the final IAP components for presentation and approval by the PSC prior to mass photo copy production. You may be asked to place QR codes on the final document. You will document important decisions and possibly take notes at various meetings. Anticipate opportunity for several tasks to be checked off in your previously initiated PTB.
With the academy being focused on training opportunities, the TNSP is generally a very busy position that requires good understanding of NIMS and NWCG pathways to acquiring qualifications. This position places emphasis on proper documentation with mandatory ratings, interviews etc. You will document the training of others and forward records to home units. There will be opportunity for several tasks to be checked off in your previously initiated PTB.
This position requires an in-depth understanding of networks, hardware, software and patience to assist needy academy staff and instructors. The academy provides several laptop computers that may connect to a central server or more recently may simply store electronic records on a cloud based system. Frequent challenges will come up that may be challenging to resolve.
If you have any questions about training opportunities in the logistics section, feel free to email us at tbailey@cwfima.org
Being a trainee at the academy provides you with the opportunity to learn the skills and procedures to work in your targeted position. The winter and summer academies are different in some aspects and some training opportunities are limited in the winter academy due to the weather. Not all skills and procedures can be learned at the winter academy due to the decreased number of field exercises. (It is recommended that if possible you attend as a trainee for both the winter and summer sessions. This will enhance your ability to train under the different formats.) There are a number of items in your taskbook that can be evaluated and signed but absolutely under no circumstances will a new taskbook be completed and signed off at an academy for any Logistics Section positions. There are critical elements that need to be evaluated on incidents that are not presentable at an academy environment.
The logistics section also conducts daily all staff training sessions that will cover a number of different topics to enhance your knowledge of the incident management process as well as provide opportunities for individual logistic unit trainings.
As a trainee you should assemble and bring your kit for your trainee position. Your trainer will offer suggestions for completing any missing items. Bring your initiated taskbook so that it can be reviewed and elements evaluated. Meet (or email prior to the academy) with your trainer upon checking in with the assigned unit in Logistics. Be prepared for unexpected tasks and seek training opportunities whenever possible. Be willing to contribute ideas to solve problems and issues within your unit. Take initiatives to accomplish tasks in an effective manner and be reliable.
Logistics trainees have 3 session options to choose from:
The Logistics Section Chief is a member of the General Staff, is responsible for providing facilities, services, and material in support of the incident. The LSC participates in the development and implementation of the Incident Action Plan (IAP) and activates and supervises the Units within the Logistics Section.
This trainee position may need to be involved in a certain amount of pre-planning before the academy. A trainee should expect to be in attendance from the initial kick-off meeting, usually the day prior to the classes starting, and should be available a minimum of 4 additional days; longer is better. Expect to shadow a fully qualified LSC for a few operational periods and then transition into running the section. At the CWFIMA you will help to ensure that the strategy and tactics as outlined by the Operations and Planning Sections are supported and met by Logistics Section staff. You should expect to attend daily meetings (to include: Command & General Staff, Strategy/Tactics, Planning), participate in and/or leads the daily Logistics Section meeting and trainings. You will also be involved in the monitoring of the section to ensure safe work practices are followed as well as keeping open lines of communications with academy staff, students, vendors, and visitors.
This trainee position may need to be involved in a certain amount of pre-planning before the academy. A trainee should expect to be in attendance from the initial kick-off meeting, usually the day prior to the classes starting, and should be available a minimum of 4 additional days; longer is better. 2 trainees per academy are available. Expect to shadow a fully qualified FACL for a few operational periods and then transition into running the section. At the CWFIMA the Facilities Unit is responsible for set up, maintenance, and demobilization of all academy support facilities. You will install and maintain appropriate academy signage throughout the facility, as well as set up classrooms in accordance with needs. (Flip charts, fans, extension cords, class materials, etc.) The FACL will establish a schedule for classroom set-ups, breakdowns, refurb, etc. in addition to keeping an inventory of returned class materials. When remote based camps are required, you will review supply order for necessary camp supplies and equipment. The trainee will also conduct pre-inspections and post-inspections of the facilities used to ensure that the areas are received and returned in acceptable conditions and document any discrepancies and/or damages. You will also coordinate security services as needed through the use of Security Staff or local law enforcement agencies
A trainee should expect to be in attendance from the initial kick-off meeting, usually the day prior to the classes starting, and should be available a minimum of 4 additional days; longer is better. 3 trainees per academy or 3 trainees at a time are optimal. At the CWFIMA the Base Camp Manager is responsible to the FACL for set up, maintenance, and demobilization of all academy support facilities. You will provide and install appropriate academy signage throughout the facility, as well as set up classrooms in accordance with needs. (Flip charts, fans, extension cords, class materials, etc.) When remote based camps are required, you will develop supply order for necessary camp supplies and equipment. The trainee will also conduct daily inspections of the facilities used to ensure that the areas are in acceptable conditions and document any discrepancies and/or damages. .
This trainee position may need to be involved in a certain amount of pre-planning before the academy. A trainee should expect to be in attendance from the initial kick-off meeting, usually the day prior to the classes starting, and should be available a minimum of 4 additional days; longer is better. 2 trainees per academy are available. Expect to shadow a fully qualified SPUL for a few operational periods and then transition into running the section. At the CWFIMA the SPUL is responsible for placing the academy pre-order from the Rocky Mountain Cache and arrange for pick-up, delivery, and return to the cache. While at the academy you will conduct and maintain an inventory of supplies and equipment, including servicing reusable equipment, as needed. You will maintain an accurate accounting of locally purchased equipment and supplies as well as coordinate with Operations staff, instructors, and students for pick-up and/or delivery procedures for supplies and equipment requested for field activities. You will also coordinate with Facilities Unit for issuance/control of facility type supplies. (Fans, extension cords, tables, etc.)
This trainee position may need to be involved in a certain amount of pre-planning before the academy. A trainee should expect to be in attendance from the initial kick-off meeting, usually the day prior to the classes starting, and should be available a minimum of 4 additional days; longer is better. 2 trainees per academy are available. Expect to shadow a fully qualified SPUL for a few operational periods and then transition into running the section. At the CWFIMA the SPUL is responsible for placing the academy pre-order from the Rocky Mountain Cache and arrange for pick-up, delivery, and return to the cache. While at the academy you will conduct and maintain an inventory of supplies and equipment, including servicing reusable equipment, as needed. You will maintain an accurate accounting of locally purchased equipment and supplies as well as coordinate with Operations staff, instructors, and students for pick-up and/or delivery procedures for supplies and equipment requested for field activities. You will also coordinate with Facilities Unit for issuance/control of facility type supplies. (Fans, extension cords, tables, etc.)
A trainee should expect to be in attendance from the initial kick-off meeting, usually the day prior to the classes starting, and should be available a minimum of 4 additional days; longer is better. 1 trainee per academy or 1 trainee at a time is optimal. At the CWFIMA the RCDM receives and inventories the Rocky Mountain Cache order and the CWFIMA cache. You will distribute and account for all supplies and equipment issued through the Supply Unit to instructors, staff or students to include items used in class and in the field. You are also responsible for the marking of tools and equipment in need of service and repair. You will also be responsible for daily status reports of available materials and reconciliation reports for all accountable equipment as well as a detailed end of academy inventory for equipment assigned to the Supply Unit..
A trainee should expect to be in attendance from the initial kick-off meeting, usually the day prior to the classes starting, and should be available a minimum of 4 additional days; longer is better. 1 trainee per academy or 1 trainee at a time is optimal. At the CWFIMA the ORDM position will be primarily simulation based as the academy does not place daily orders with the Rocky Mountain Cache. The trainee will place simulated orders for academy supplies and equipment to ensure proficiency with the standard NWCG ordering process as well as provide orders and discuss the necessary requirements to order from a local municipality EOC.
This trainee position may need to be involved in a certain amount of pre-planning before the academy. A trainee should expect to be in attendance from the initial kick-off meeting, usually the day prior to the classes starting, and should be available a minimum of 4 additional days; longer is better. 1 trainee per academy or 1 trainee at a time is optimal. Expect to shadow the fully qualified GSUL for a few operational periods and then transition into running the section. At the CWFIMA the Ground Support Unit is primarily responsible for the ground transportation of personnel, supplies and equipment, and the development as necessary of the Academy Traffic Plan. You will coordinate with the Facilities Unit staff for signage as necessary to field sites and establishes contacts, arrangements, and schedules for vehicles to provide ground transportation to field sites.
A trainee interested in this position should contact the LSC prior to application as this is a position that is available but not commonly staffed at the academy. 1 trainee per academy or 1 trainee at a time is optimal.
This trainee position may need to be involved in a certain amount of pre-planning before the academy. A trainee should expect to be in attendance from the initial kick-off meeting, usually the day prior to the classes starting, and should be available a minimum of 4 additional days; longer is better. 1 trainee per academy or 1 trainee at a time is optimal. Expect to shadow the fully qualified COML for a few operational periods and then transition into running the section. At the CWFIMA the Communications Unit is responsible for developing plans for the use of communications equipment and facilities; installing and testing of communications equipment; supervision of Communications Center; and the distribution and maintenance of communications equipment. You will advises on communications capabilities/limitations. And prepare and implement the Communications Plan (ICS 205). You will be involved in the distribution, maintenance and recovery of communications equipment (portable radios, FAX machines, etc.) and developing and implementing an equipment accountability system.
A trainee should expect to be in attendance from the initial kick-off meeting, usually the day prior to the classes starting, and should be available a minimum of 4 additional days; longer is better. 2 trainee per academy or 1 trainee at a time is optimal. At the CWFIMA the Medical Unit will develop an Incident Medical Plan (to be included in the Incident Action Plan); develop procedures for managing major medical
emergencies; provide medical aid; and assist the Finance/Administration section with processing injury-related claims. Determine and provide the level of emergency medical activities necessary prior to support off campus field site locations. You will establish needed procedures for handling serious injuries of staff and students and respond to requests for: medical
A trainee should expect to be in attendance from the initial kick-off meeting, usually the day prior to the classes starting, and should be available a minimum of 4 additional days; longer is better. 1 trainee per academy or 1 trainee at a time is optimal. At the CWFIMA the FDUL is responsible for coordinating the supply of the food needs for the academy, including all remote locations (e.g., Camps, Staging Areas). You will ensure that sufficient food and potable water are available for on-site and offsite classes. You will also work with onsite catering providers to maintain food service areas, ensuring that all appropriate health and safety measures are being followed.
This trainee position may need to be involved in a certain amount of pre-planning before the academy. A trainee should expect to be in attendance from the initial kick-off meeting, usually the day prior to the classes starting, and should be available a minimum of 4 additional days; longer is better. 2 trainees per academy are available. Expect to shadow a fully qualified FACL for a few operational periods and then transition into running the section. At the CWFIMA the Facilities Unit is responsible for set up, maintenance, and demobilization of all academy support facilities. You will install and maintain appropriate academy signage throughout the facility, as well as set up classrooms in accordance with needs. (Flip charts, fans, extension cords, class materials, etc.) The FACL will establish a schedule for classroom set-ups, breakdowns, refurb, etc. in addition to keeping an inventory of returned class materials. When remote based camps are required, you will review supply order for necessary camp supplies and equipment. The trainee will also conduct pre-inspections and post-inspections of the facilities used to ensure that the areas are received and returned in acceptable conditions and document any discrepancies and/or damages. You will also coordinate security services as needed through the use of Security Staff or local law enforcement agencies