First Ever Southern Area Engine Academy in North Carolina

By: Jennifer Fawcett, NC State Extension

The Southern Area Engine Academy offers a comprehensive program designed for supervisors and crew personnel responsible for initial attack and tactical decision-making in the suppression of wildfires and the management of prescribed fires. The curriculum equips students with essential skills in utilizing water-handling equipment safely and efficiently, along with mastering tactics specific to wildland engines.  A large portion of the course involves field exercises and live fire suppression work. The Academy also helps to meet the goals of the National Cohesive Wildland Fire Management Strategy.

Photo credit: Kris Anne Bonifacio

Typically hosted by the State of Florida at locations across their state, and by the U.S. Forest Service in Kentucky, the first ever North Carolina Southern Area Engine Academy was held at Haw River State Park from March 3-9, 2024. It was hosted by NC State Parks in conjunction with numerous other partners, including the NC Prescribed Fire Council. The cadre consisted of nearly 30 instructors, coaches, and members of the Incident Management Team from nine agencies and organizations across NC, FL, VA and NJ. The Academy began with the S-211, Portable Pumps and Water Use course that built into the S-214 Southern Area Engine Operations class with many opportunities for participants to gain valuable, hands-on engine, pump, and hose experience. The Academy provided training for 31 fire practitioners from seven agencies and organizations in NC, VA, GA, and FL. 

Photo credit: Jennifer Fawcett