Participants engage in field instruction during the ACCESS Bootcamp training sessions in Vancouver.
Creating Pathways Through Hands-On Training
In February, FNESS partnered with ACCESS Future, Vancouver Fire Rescue Services (VFRS), and the Vancouver School District’s Horizons Program to deliver a three-day ACCESS Bootcamp in Vancouver.
Held at Britannia Secondary School and the VFRS Training Facility, the bootcamp introduced youth participants to both wildland and structural firefighting, marking the first time the program combined both disciplines into a single training experience.
Participants build practical firefighting skills during hands-on training exercises at the ACCESS Bootcamp.
The first two days focused on a newly developed wildland firefighting module, reflecting the growing need for wildfire response skills as communities continue to face increased wildfire risk. Participants were then introduced to structural firefighting during a full day of training at the VFRS facility, where they were able to experience a different side of emergency response in a real-world training environment.
Hands-on training introduced participants to emergency response equipment
Exploring Emergency Response Pathways
This blended approach gave participants a more complete understanding of the firefighting field, while also allowing them to explore different pathways within emergency services.
The response to the program was overwhelmingly positive, particularly with the addition of the wildland component, which drew strong interest from participants.
ACCESS Bootcamp participants, instructors, and partner organizations gather following the completion of the Vancouver training sessions.
Building Future Opportunities
By combining hands-on experience with exposure to real training environments, the ACCESS Bootcamp continues to create meaningful entry points for youth to explore careers in firefighting and emergency response.
To learn more about the ACCESS Bootcamp contact the FNESS Fire Services Team below.
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