Overview
The Veterans Fire Corps (VFC) program provides training and on-the-job experience for post-9/11 era veterans ages 18-35 who are interested in entering careers and gaining experience in wildland firefighting and natural resource management. The program engages participants in a cohort environment in which a crew of recent-era Veterans work together to train and complete projects related primarily to fuels management, which will include prescribed burning and wildland firefighting.
Wildland firefighting demands a high level of fitness to work in difficult environmental conditions, including steep terrain, extreme temperatures, altitude, and smoke. This program will provide practical, hands-on training and certifications related to natural resource management and wildland firefighting. The program is comprehensive and intentionally structured to prepare Veterans to transition into civilian careers focused on wildland firefighting. Additional opportunities such as repeated networking with Federal employees and training on the federal land management application process are also included in this program.
Qualifications:
- Be a military Veteran able to provide a DD214 or NGB-22 upon interview
- Be between the ages of 18 and 35
- Able to pass the USFS arduous level pack test (3-mile hike with 45-pound pack within 45 minutes)
- US Citizenship or Legal Permanent Residency status
- Have a high school diploma or GED
- Fully vaccinated for COVID-19 (Federal Partner requirement)
About Appalachian Conservation Corps
The Appalachian Conservation Corps (ACC) is a non-profit whose mission is to engage motivated young adults to complete challenging and impactful conservation and service projects throughout the region. ACC works with a variety of land management agencies throughout the state such as the United States Forest Service, National Park Service, and The Nature Conservancy.
Our programs focus on place-based learning, life skills development, appreciation of diversity, civic responsibility and career development. ACC also provides an opportunity for members to learn about the local environment, environmental issues and introduces individuals to recreation and resource management careers.
