An air force firefighter receives extensive training in both fire science and first aid techniques, which he or she may use in fire and rescue operations. Consult a military recruiter and enlist in the air force as your first step toward becoming an air force firefighter. After high school, you can enroll in an air force academy, attend an officer training school after receiving your bachelor’s degree, or enlist in the air force reserve program while still in college. Before you can enter this specific field in the military, you may need to complete all officer training procedures in addition to completing one of these steps.
An air force entrance examination must be passed before you can become an officer in the air force. You are usually given two chances to pass this accumulative exam before you are no longer eligible to apply to this branch of the military. After passing the exam, you must pass a physical and mental screening for officer positions, which is required before you can join the air force as a firefighter. If you are chosen, you will be sent to a basic training camp for a 12-week intensive training program. You will be an officer in the air force after completing these steps, and you will need to apply to the fire protection program to become an air force firefighter.
This technical portion of the program usually lasts two months and leads to a fire science degree. The course will teach you how to fight a variety of fires, including those involving hazardous materials, aircraft, and wildland fires. You may also learn how to use and maintain firefighting equipment such as extinguishers and other firefighting equipment. This program usually covers preventative procedures, fire inspection principles, first aid, and rescue procedures. Although completing this program does not guarantee that you will be hired as an air force firefighter, it is a requirement if you want to be considered for the job.
Depending on the specific position available, you may be required to complete additional training programs. Unless you have a prior contract with a senior official guaranteeing you a position as an air force firefighter, you may have to work in other fields before being accepted for the position you want. Recruiters usually advise you to list several career options in the order in which you want to work, with your preferred position listed first.