New apprenticeship programme for firefighters launched across the United States
Iain Hoey
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IAFF and US Department of Labor introduce first national firefighter apprenticeship
The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) has announced the launch of the IAFF Fire and EMS Apprenticeship Program, a new federally registered apprenticeship designed to support firefighter and emergency medical services recruitment in the United States.
According to the IAFF, the programme was introduced at a signing ceremony hosted at the Frances Perkins Department of Labor building in Washington, D.C., and is the first federally registered apprenticeship of its kind for the fire service.
The IAFF stated that the programme has been established in response to long-term recruitment and retention challenges affecting fire departments across the country.
Programme offers new pathway into US fire and EMS services
The IAFF explained that the programme will allow fire departments to access a nationally coordinated model for hiring, training, and retaining new firefighters and EMS personnel.
The programme has been federally registered through the Department of Labor to provide departments with consistent support and expanded access to funding and other federal resources.
IAFF General President Edward Kelly said: “As we celebrate National Apprenticeship Day, what a fitting occasion to launch the first-ever apprenticeship programme for firefighters and paramedics in the United States. This programme will not only give firefighters in every jurisdiction a baseline of skills, but it allows those fire chiefs to tailor their training to the specific hazards they have in their jurisdictions – something that’s incredibly important.”
Kelly added: “This is a brand-new era for the US fire service.”
Partnership focuses on training and safety standards
The US Department of Labor said the programme has been created to ensure departments have enough properly trained personnel to meet community needs and maintain health and safety standards.
US Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer said: “Time and time again, the IAFF has demonstrated a strong commitment to advancing the rights, safety, and future of firefighters, emergency medical workers, and rescue workers.”
Chavez-DeRemer added: “Registered apprenticeships like these ensure responders have enhanced capabilities that help prevent harm and improve overall health and safety. Programmes like yours are reinforcing proper protections to avoid tragedies and build a future where everyone remains safe. That’s why I’m so excited to be part of this signing ceremony today.”
Federal coordination and military career transitions included in scope
The IAFF noted that the programme will unify existing state-level apprenticeship models under one federal framework, allowing for broader implementation and support.
The programme has also been designed to align with Department of Veterans Affairs and Department of Defense employment transition initiatives, such as SkillBridge and Career Skills Programs.
According to the IAFF, the programme will provide an accessible path into the fire service for former military personnel and others facing barriers to certification and training.
Kelly said: “Together with the fire chiefs, we launched this concept to boost the ranks of the American fire service.”
Recruitment needs remain high for US departments
The IAFF stated that fire departments across the US continue to face staffing shortages, particularly in small and rural areas.
These shortages, it said, have contributed to increased workloads, burnout, and injuries among existing staff.
According to the IAFF, the new apprenticeship model is the first national solution aimed at reversing these trends through structured training and recruitment.
Kelly said: “We are going to redefine the US fire service through this programme.”
New apprenticeship programme for firefighters launched across the United States: Summary
The International Association of Fire Fighters has launched a new federal apprenticeship programme for fire and EMS personnel.
The announcement was made alongside the US Department of Labor during National Apprenticeship Day.
The IAFF Fire and EMS Apprenticeship Program is the first federally registered apprenticeship scheme for the US fire service.
It will support recruitment and training needs across fire departments in every state.
The Department of Labor said the scheme will improve safety and skill standards for fire and EMS workers.
The IAFF said it will coordinate existing state apprenticeship programmes under a national model.
Federal registration will provide departments with greater access to funding and resources.
The programme will also support former military personnel entering fire service careers.
Workforce shortages have affected departments across the US, especially in rural areas.
The IAFF said the programme was developed through discussions with the International Association of Fire Chiefs.
