came to the Oconaluftee JCC from the Georgia Interagency Coordination Center where he served as the Center Manager for several years. Before that John worked in Kentucky with the Kentucky Interagency Coordination Center and spent several years on the Red Bird Ranger District in Engineering and Recreation.
John's background is varied in Fire, Rescue, and EMS having spent his career in these fields. He is a graduate of Northern Arizona University with a BS in Parks and Recreation Management with emphasis in Outdoor Leadership.
John is excited to be onboard and pass along his knowledge to Forestry/Fire Trade Students
Forestry Conservation and Firefighting
On the job, you will ...
Work to measure and improve the quality of forests
Use digging and planting tools to plant seedlings and power saws to cut down diseased trees
Provide technical assistance regarding the conservation of soil, water, forests and related natural resources
Control and put out fires
Respond to emergencies involving life, property or the environment, including disaster aid, search-and-rescue operations, and traffic accidents
Provide medical attention in a variety of situations
Some of the career options you will have ...
Most Forestry Conservation and Firefighting graduates go on to become forest conservation and firefighting specialists. Forestry conservation and firefighting specialists spend most of their time outdoors and have very physically demanding tasks. Those interested in this career should be able to follow directions well because of the risks involved with this job. They work in close-knit teams in forested and wooded areas. Additionally, you must be at least 18 years old to be hired as a firefighter.
Students should also consider pursuing the Advanced Fire Management and Advanced Forestry training area and other Advanced Training programs at Job Corps as part of their career pathway.
The credentials you will earn ...
In the Forestry Conservation and Firefighting training program, you can earn industry-recognized credentials from such organizations as the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), the Professional Landcare Network (PLANET) and the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP).
Students will also become Pack Test-certified and earn a certification in basic first aid and CPR. Students will also gain the ability to work in steep terrain and in extreme temperatures, altitude and smoke while maintaining the ability to meet unforeseen emergencies.
Students should also earn a state-issued learner’s permit and driver’s license upon completion of the program.
What you’ll need to start training ...
Have a high school diploma or equivalent (can be earned at all Job Corps centers)
Completion of all introductory and career preparation courses
Passing scores on all written and performance test
Meet academic (math and reading) requirements
Renewable Resources and Energy
Job Corps offers training in the following renewable resources and energy areas. Get started today.
Forestry Conservation and Firefighting professionals work to measure and improve the quality of forests.
