CR Fire Academy Earns State Fire Training Accreditation as an Accredited Regional Training Program (ARTP)

Published on Nov 5 2025

College of the Redwoods is proud to announce that its Fire Academy has officially been approved as an Accredited Regional Training Program (ARTP) by California State Fire Training (SFT) under the Office of the State Fire Marshal. This recognition signifies that CR meets the highest state standards for fire service education and training delivery.

A Major Milestone for the North Coast

Becoming an ARTP means College of the Redwoods is now authorized to deliver State Fire Training curriculum and certify completion of coursework that leads to Fire Fighter I and other professional fire service certifications recognized across California and positioning it to serve as a regional training hub, supporting fire agencies across Humboldt, Del Norte, and Mendocino counties. The accreditation follows an extensive multi-year review of curriculum alignment, instructor qualifications, facilities, equipment, safety protocols, and partnerships with local fire agencies.

“This accreditation is a tremendous achievement for our students, our instructors, and the entire North Coast fire service community,” said Sean Robertson, Fire Academy Director at College of the Redwoods. “It is the result of years of work to develop a fire program that delivers Fire Fighter I certification and will open new doors for our graduates to immediately attain fire service careers.”

Robertson’s remarks were echoed by regional partners who have worked closely with the academy since its inception.

“We’re incredibly proud of our strong partnership with College of the Redwoods and the dedication they’ve shown in achieving accreditation for their Fire Academy,” said Sean Wilson, Battalion Chief – Humboldt-Unit Training. “This accomplishment not only raises the standard of firefighter training in our region but also strengthens our shared commitment to serving and protecting the local community. Together, we’re ensuring that the next generation of firefighters is equipped with the skills, knowledge, and professionalism our residents deserve.”

As one of the academy’s key partners, CAL FIRE underscored the importance of regional collaboration in building a strong and sustainable training network for Northern California.

“CAL FIRE is proud to officially recognize College of the Redwoods as an Accredited Regional Training Program,” said CAL FIRE Humboldt-Del Norte Unit Chief Kurt McCray. “This accreditation reflects the College’s commitment to excellence and its critical role in preparing the next generation of firefighters for service in Northern California. CAL FIRE looks forward to leveraging progress toward local firefighter training and career opportunities through our partnership with College of the Redwoods.”

The CR Fire Academy, based at the College’s Eureka campus, provides immersive, hands-on training in structural and wildland firefighting, rescue operations, fire behavior, incident command, and teamwork under live-fire and simulated emergency conditions. Each cohort works closely with experienced instructors from local fire agencies including Humboldt Bay Fire, Arcata Fire, and CAL FIRE, building both technical proficiency and leadership skills.

“Receiving accreditation for our Fire Technology Program from a peer-driven organization is a significant milestone for College of the Redwoods and reflects our commitment to offering high-quality and innovative programs that meet the needs of our students and the workforce,” said Dr. Keith Flamer, President of College of the Redwoods. “Being in a position to offer an accredited Fire Technology Program has been a dream for the College for a long time.”

College of the Redwoods extends its deepest gratitude to CAL FIRE Humboldt-Del Norte Unit for its exceptional partnership and generosity. CAL FIRE has provided instructors, training support, equipment, and countless other resources that have been instrumental in the academy’s growth and success.

CR would also like to thank their partners, Humboldt Bay Fire, Fortuna Fire, Arcata Fire, the Humboldt County Fire Chiefs Association, and the Humboldt County Fire Instructors Association. Their collaboration has elevated the program’s capacity to deliver safe, effective, and realistic fire service training experiences. Special thanks to Humboldt Bay Fire and Fortuna Fire for providing access to their training grounds, which allows CR’s cadets to gain invaluable hands-on experience in real-world environments.

Supporting Student Safety and Program Growth

As enrollment in the Fire Academy continues to grow, so does the need for personal protective equipment (PPE) and training resources. College of the Redwoods invites community members, alumni, and local businesses to support the program through two dedicated funds administered by the CR Foundation.

The Fire Technology Scholarship Fund helps students cover the cost of the personal protective equipment required for firefighting and can be accessed at www.redwoods.edu/foundation/firetechnologyscholarshipfund.

The Fire Technology Operational Fund, available at www.redwoods.edu/foundation/firetechnologyoperationalfund, supports the department’s training equipment, supplies, and materials.

Donations to either fund can also be made through the College of the Redwoods Foundation at www.redwoods.edu/foundation by designating a gift to the Fire Academy Program.