Program Description
The path to leadership in the fire service starts at Hennepin Tech with training in fire services administration.
Learn to lead a firefighting crew with confidence, manage complex emergency scenes, and make split-second decisions that protect lives and property. Courses cover the essentials of company officer duties, including fire ground strategy, inspection, investigation, and incident management. All training meets NFPA 1021 standards.
Students develop the skills to identify hazards, apply advanced safety procedures, and ensure the well-being of both responders and the public. You will also gain an understanding of legal and regulatory responsibilities, master the Incident Command System, and apply strategic thinking to every situation.
Graduates are ready to take on company officer roles, prepared to lead with skill, serve with integrity, and uphold the highest standards in the fire service.
Workforce services for eligible adults are available through this program authorized by Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).
Wages/Outlook/Advancement
Wage and Job Outlook information for this program are available at Minnesota Department of Employment & Economic Development (DEED). Fire services administration graduates may perform a variety of jobs in the fire protection family. Higher level positions, requiring experience and exams, are:
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- Fire Marshal
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- Lieutenant
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- Captain
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- District Chief
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- Deputy Chief
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- Assistant Chief
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- Chief of Department
Tools/Other Expenses
Fire program students wear the following uniform: t-shirt, blue uniform pants, black uniform belt, and black uniform shoes or boots. If students are not affiliated with a local fire department, there is a rental fee of $100 for structural firefighting gear.
USDE Professional Licensure Disclosure
Successful completion of the Fire Protection program at Hennepin Tech will meet the requirements for certification by the Minnesota Fire Service Certification Board (MFSCB), which is accredited by IFSAC (International Fire Service Accreditation Congress). With appropriate IFSAC certification applicant can apply for licensure according to MN statute 299N. Certification by IFSAC is required by Minnesota as well as by most states to acquire a state license to practice the profession of firefighting or for employment as a certified/licensed firefighter. Hennepin Technical College highly recommends that you contact the appropriate state licensing board in the state or locality in which you wish to practice or be employed. If you have further questions about licensure for Fire Protection please feel free to reach out to Cara Garrett and we will be happy to help you.
State Board Licensing Contacts
For information on state board licensing contacts, please download the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress, Certificate Assembly Member Entities and Representatives, February 2024 pdf.
Last reviewed 02/23/2026