University of Akron Fire training center

THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON

Training Center for Fire and Hazardous Materials


Degrees

Bachelor degree

Emergency Management & Homeland Security Bachelor of Science degree

  • Only university in the United States to offer this IFSAC accrediated degree

Associate degree

Fire Protection Technology Associate of Applied Science degree

  • Only university in Ohio to offer this accredited degree
Contact information

Training Center for Fire and Hazardous Materials
The Polsky Building 309
Akron, OH 44325-4304
330-972-6652
330-972-8856
See on map

Dennis Ragins
Director of Training
Polsky 316
330-972-2051
dragins@uakron.edu

Matt Claflin
Fire Training & Projects Coordinator
Polsky 309
mtc6@uakron.edu

Kathy Shaffer
Dept. Safety Program Specialist
330-972-8240
kfshaff@uakron.edu

Fire Academy Courses

Fall, 2024

Professional Development Classes

Spring, 2024


  • Fire Officer II March 4-18, 2024
  • Fire Officer III & IV Apr 15-29, 2024
  • Fire Safety Inspector Apr. 22-May 3, 2024

  • **New**

  • Fire Officer I Feb. 26-27, 2024

  • Fall, 2024


  • Fire Officer I Sept 9-30, 2024
  • Fire Officer II Oct 28-Nov.11, 2024
  • Fire Officer III & IV Dec 2-16, 2024
  • Advanced Fire Training
  • Engine Company Course - Coming Fall 2024
  • Truck Company Course - Coming Fall 2024
  • Live Fire Training/Manpower Engine Ops - Coming Fall 2024
  • Advanced Fire Training Packages
    • Forcible Entry
    • Search and Rescue
    • Hoseline Advancement
    • "No Truck, Truck Company"
    • Tactics and Strategy
    • Emotional Intelligence for Company Officers
    Direct Delivery Courses
    • Fire Officer 1, 2, 3, 4
    • HazMat Technician
    • Health Safety Officer
    • Incident Safety Officer
    • Please contact Matt Claflin, mtc6@uakron.edu, for more information
    Postsecondary (HS) programs

    Four Cities Educational Compact

    • Barberton
    • Wadsworth
    • Copley
    • Norton
    Fire Academy FAQs
    1. What certification will I have when I’m done?
      • Students completing all of the class requirements and passing the State of Ohio Firefighter 1 and 2 exam will be certified at the highest level the state offers.
    2. Will I need to provide my own firefighter protective gear?
      • Students sponsored by area departments may be given their own gear to wear.
      • Students not affiliated with a department will be able to rent all of the protective gear from our 3rd party supplier.
    3. What are the physical requirements?
      • Firefighting is a physically demanding occupation. We require a physical screening from the students doctor prior to class.
      • It is also recommended that the student engage in cardiovascular and strength training before, during and after their academy.
      • Our academies have group PT. (COVID-19 Update: Due to local and state requirements group PT may be suspended or conducted in a manner compliant with those requirements)
    4. Where is the class held?
      • We offer the unique experience of holding class at actual fire departments throughout the area.
      • The lead instructor will put out a schedule detailing the location of every class.
      • (COVID-19 Update: Due to recommended best practices class will be held virtually when applicable.)
    5. Can I turn this into a degree?
    6. What is the cost of the training?
      • Current tuition rates are $3900 for the academy, plus a $600 gear rental fee if needed.
      • We offer a payment plan for those that need it.
      • Please email Matt Claflin at mtc6@uakron.edu for more details or questions.

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