All Risk Shield; Fire Control Technician (Phase I)
The Fire Control Technician (FCT) program is a 31–60 day intensive, hands-on apprenticeship designed for transitioning Service Members seeking entry into the wildfire mitigation and private fire defense industry.Participants train in real-world field environments supporting wildfire mitigation, suppression system deployment, and operational readiness activities in California’s Wildland Urban Interface (WUI).This short-duration program focuses on foundational technical skills required to support Fire Defense Experts during both pre-season mitigation operations and in-season Red Flag and wildfire deployments.Training areas include:• QTAC pump system familiarization and deployment• Portable wagon pump drafting from pools and static water sources• Ground-based long-term fire retardant (LTR) application support• Wildland hand tool use and maintenance (Type 6 equipment sets)• Property preparation and defensible space implementation• Equipment staging, inspection, and readiness standards• Operational safety and ICS-aligned field conductThis program provides structured exposure to the operational tempo and expectations of private wildfire defense organizations.
The Fire Control Technician (FCT) apprentice supports wildfire mitigation and fire defense operations under supervision of senior personnel.Primary Duties:• Assist with installation and setup of portable fire suppression equipment• Deploy pumps, hoses, fittings, and drafting components• Support long-term fire retardant ground applications• Conduct vegetation mitigation and site preparation work• Maintain tools, pumps, and field equipment to readiness standards• Participate in Red Flag patrol operations when authorized• Support logistics and operational staging during wildfire incidentsFCT apprentices are expected to demonstrate discipline, safety awareness, physical capability, and professional conduct consistent with emergency operations environments.Successful completion may lead to consideration for continued training in the Fire Defense Expert (FDE) program.
Open to all MOS / ratings / AFSCs.
• Physically capable of performing field labor in outdoor environments• Comfortable working in heat and wildfire-prone terrain• Valid driver’s license preferred• Ability to lift 50+ pounds• Willingness to work irregular hours during Red Flag warnings and wildfire incidents• Strong work ethic and team-oriented mindset• Safety-focused with ability to follow ICS-aligned supervisionNo certifications required prior to entry. Training provided.
No cost to participating Service Member. This is an employer-sponsored SkillBridge apprenticeship.
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Interview prep for this program▸
- ▸ "How many of your past SkillBridge interns received full-time offers?" — a serious program knows the number.
- ▸ "Who will my day-to-day mentor be, and what does week one look like?"
- ▸ "The listing says 31 - 60 days — can that flex to my approved window if my command shortens it?"
- ▸ "Is relocation expected for a full-time offer, or can I convert where I am?"
- ▸ Confirm the eligibility notes above — ask exactly what they need from you and when.
- ✓ Your projected start window and separation date (from your profile)
- ✓ Your command's approval status — even "packet drafted" signals you're serious
- ✓ Your civilian-translated resume bullets (generate them here)
- ✓ A written training-plan ask — you'll need it for your packet anyway