Can a high school/college graduate make a career as a wildland firefighter?
Yes, an intentional career choice in wildland firefighting is becoming easier for those just starting out. That is, the federal wildfire agencies have specified what is needed to reach each rung of the career ladder. In the past, promotions seemed to be more a matter of luck, like showing up early to work one morning. The Interagency Fire Program Management standards identify 14 technical and professional positions that require increasing amounts of training, experience and formal education.
