Experienced Wildland Firefighter Turns Instructor

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Gila Pueblo Campus is excited to announce we have added yet another knowledgeable and experienced instructor to our GPC faculty. Captain Barry Johnson has been working in Wildland Firefighting for 17 years, and will give his students an exciting and informational classroom experience that will prepare them for a career in Wildland Fire.

Captain Johnson started his career in Wildland Firefighting when he was 18 years old. He knew a few things about what he wanted in a job; he wanted to work outside, he wanted to be challenged, and he wanted to be a part of something bigger than himself. He found all of these qualities in Wildland Firefighting and dedicated himself to learning as much as he could about the industry. He has also taught a variety of courses within the Forest Service. Basic Wildland Firefighting, or FSC150, is sure to be an exciting course because of how much real world information Captain Johnson plans to incorporate. He wants his students to know more than the average first year Forestry Aid/Technician. Captain Johnson plans to run his class like a fire engine crew and teach his students the ins and outs of Wildland Firefighting. A brief overview of the class includes studying basic firefighting tactics, learning safety protocols, and understanding the proper use and care of tools, equipment, and fire engines. Other aspects will be inspired by the day to day job, such as communicating with the proper lingo and practice separating into smaller groups to work on different tasks to achieve one overall goal.

Captain Johnson’s intent is for students to leave the class and show up on the job as a self sufficient member of a Wildland Firefighting team.

If you or somebody you know enjoys hunting, playing sports, or going on outdoor adventures and is looking for a career that is challenging, mostly outdoors, and involves traveling, be sure to sign up for this course and spread the word. Basic Wildland Firefighting will run from October 4, 2019 - November 15, 2019. Classes will be on Fridays from 8:00 AM - 2:30 PM at the Gila Pueblo Campus.

Call 928.425.8481 to register.