CAL FIRE Launched Statewide EMT Academy
The inaugural training program aims to standardize medical response skills across California departments.
Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Emergency Response
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CAL FIRE and CAL-JAC have launched an EMT academy for 25 department employees at the Ben Clark Training Center in Riverside. The program aims to increase medical training access and expand the state's cadre of emergency medical instructors.
Why it matters
By providing standardized training for firefighters of all ranks, the academy seeks to strengthen the emergency medical response capacity for communities throughout California.
The inaugural academy involves 25 participants and is part of a broader infrastructure supporting CAL FIRE's 315,700 annual medical responses. The training initiative leverages a partnership between CAL FIRE and CAL-JAC that has spanned over 40 years.
The players
CAL FIRE
The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection is a state agency responsible for fire protection and emergency services.
CAL-JAC
The California Firefighter Joint Apprenticeship Committee is a labor-management partnership focused on fire service training and standards.
California Emergency Medical Services Authority
This state department provides the oversight and accreditation necessary for EMS training programs to operate in California.
The details
CAL FIRE instructors and CAL-JAC, an EMS training provider accredited by the California Emergency Medical Services Authority, are leading the specialized curriculum. Graduates of the program will work toward national certification through the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians before seeking state licensure.
Timeline
The EMT Academy training began on September 14, 2026.
The EMT Academy training concludes on October 23, 2026.
Seasonal Patterns
The launch of this academy follows the rigorous training standards established by the California Emergency Medical Services Authority. This development mirrors a long-term industry trend toward certifying firefighters as dual-purpose emergency medical responders to meet rising incident volumes.
While this program is internal to CAL FIRE, the increased training capacity ensures a more highly skilled workforce available to respond to local medical emergencies. Residents in communities served by these personnel may see higher levels of standardization in emergency medical support.
The takeaway
The implementation of this academy reflects the ongoing professionalization of fire service personnel as primary medical responders. Continued focus on standardized training remains essential as the demand for emergency services across the state continues to grow.
Further reading
For more information on regional safety initiatives, visit the Emergency Response section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Edhat Santa Barbara.
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