Fire Science Technology (FST)

Fire Science Technology Program Overview

Career departments, volunteer departments, and departments with both career and volunteer fi refi ghters combine to comprise approximately 100 fi re departments throughout southwest Missouri. The Fire Science Technology program provides learning opportunities which introduce, develop and reinforce academic and occupational knowledge, skills and attitudes required for job acquisition, retention and advancement. Additionally, the program provides opportunities to retrain and upgrade present knowledge and skills. Career choices for Fire Science Technology students include the following: firefi ghter, fire inspector, fire instructor, and fi re investigator. OTC graduates have obtained employment for fi re departments in Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Texas, Florida and the US Forestry Service along with various military branches. OTC has developed procedures for evaluating past training experiences and certifi cation; inquiries should be directed to the lead instructor or Division Chair. Students wishing to transfer to a four-year institution are strongly encouraged to seek the advice of the lead instructor or Division Chair of the FST program to determine courses appropriate for transfer.