Did You Know? Nebraska Volunteer Firefighters Have Access to Free National Fire Academy Training

Did you know that Nebraska volunteer firefighters have access to free training opportunities through the National Fire Academy (NFA)?

While visiting with firefighters at this year’s fire school, many were surprised to learn that the National Fire Academy offers a wide range of educational programs at little or no cost to participants. For volunteer departments across the state—many of which operate with limited budgets and rely heavily on local fundraising and community support—these programs can provide significant value at little or no cost to participants.

Nebraska is served primarily by volunteer firefighters. From the Sandhills to the Missouri River, volunteer departments protect our rural communities, small towns, and agricultural areas while responding to a wide range of emergencies. These dedicated men and women balance family responsibilities, full-time careers, and community service while remaining ready to answer the call at any hour. As emergency incidents continue to grow in complexity, access to high-quality training becomes increasingly important.

The National Fire Academy, located in Emmitsburg, Maryland, offers training in leadership, incident command, fire prevention, community risk reduction, emergency medical services, disaster preparedness, and many other critical areas. Courses are available through resident programs, online learning, and regional delivery options, making them accessible to firefighters throughout Nebraska regardless of department size or location.

For Nebraska volunteer departments, the benefits extend far beyond the individual firefighter attending a course. Participants return home with new knowledge, practical skills, and proven strategies that can be shared with fellow members. One firefighter's experience at the National Fire Academy can strengthen an entire department and improve service to the community.

Leadership development is especially important for Nebraska's volunteer fire service. Departments across the state depend on strong leaders to recruit and retain members, mentor the next generation of firefighters, manage resources, and prepare future officers. National Fire Academy courses provide valuable tools to help firefighters develop these leadership skills and support the long-term success of their departments.

Another valuable benefit is the opportunity to connect with firefighters from across the country. Nebraska firefighters often discover that departments in other states face many of the same challenges, including recruitment, retention, training, and resource limitations. These professional connections can provide ideas, support, and lasting relationships that continue long after the course is completed.

Most importantly, Nebraska communities benefit when their firefighters are better trained and better prepared. Enhanced knowledge and skills contribute to safer operations, more effective emergency response, stronger prevention efforts, and improved service to the public.

Did You Know?

• Many National Fire Academy courses are available online and can be completed from home, making them especially convenient for firefighters in rural Nebraska.
• NFA training opportunities are available for firefighters at every level, from new members and emerging leaders to chief officers.
• Volunteer firefighters can earn nationally recognized professional development credentials through NFA programs.
• Departments benefit when trained members bring new ideas and share their knowledge with fellow firefighters.
• The skills gained through NFA courses can improve firefighter safety, operational effectiveness, and community preparedness throughout Nebraska.

I encourage Nebraska firefighters and fire department leaders to explore the educational opportunities available through the National Fire Academy. The investment required may be minimal, but the return to your department and your community can be substantial. 

The National Fire Academy course catalog can be found at: https://www.usfa.fema.gov/nfa/courses/

Knowledge remains one of the most valuable tools a firefighter can carry. Through the National Fire Academy, that tool is available to every Nebraska firefighter willing to invest in their professional growth and the future of their department.

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As always, if you have a meeting or event, you would like me to attend, please reach out and I will make every effort to be there.  Below are the upcoming events you don’t want to miss:

-              NSVFA Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service: September 20, 2026, Kearney, NE at Nebraska Firefighters Museum and Education Center

-              NSVFA Annual Conference: October 16-18, 2026, hosted by Dakota City Vol. Fire Department

Until next time, stay safe and healthy.

Brenda Jenny

President, NSVFA