Photo: Engineer Academy participants stand in front of CAFMA apparatus after a week of hands-on training
Nine years ago, the Central Arizona Fire and Medical Authority (CAFMA) launched its Engineer Academy to strengthen the training and expertise of CAFMA Engineers. The program focuses on four key areas: Leadership, apparatus systems and functions, driving and responsibilities, and fireground water flow/hydraulics. While originally created to meet local training needs, the academy has gained recognition statewide, reflecting a broader demand for advanced engineer education across Arizona fire agencies.
The Engineer Academy is a rigorous five-day program that emphasizes hands-on learning, skill stations, and performance evaluations. To promote well-rounded skill development, students are organized into engine companies of five or fewer and rotate through a variety of stations each day, gaining practical experience in the critical skills necessary to become a proficient Engineer.
Held at the Central Arizona Regional Training Academy (CARTA) in Prescott Valley, Arizona, the Engineer Academy is supported by CAFMA, which provides instructional staff, apparatus, and support equipment.
2025 CAFMA Engineer Academy Overview:
- Instructors: 13 seasoned
- Participants: 33 students representing 14 agencies
- Fire Apparatus: Seven distinct
- Certifications earned upon successful completion of the Academy: Central Arizona Regional Training Academy Course Completion, VFIS Driving Course, VFIS Competency Course, Arizona Center for Fire Service Excellence (AzCFSE) Driver Operator, and an optional opportunity for three college credits from Yavapai College’s Fire Protection Hydraulics and Water Supply course.
“Over the past nine years, CAFMA has built something truly special with this Academy— unlike anything else in the state. Thanks to a team of dedicated instructors, students gain the skills and confidence needed to take the next step in the Fire Service,” said Adam Wagner, CAFMA Captain and Engineer Academy Course Facilitator. “This program strengthens our members while also providing valuable support to partner agencies across Arizona that benefit from additional resources and instruction. I am very proud to be a part of this program and honored to have a team of professionals so committed to the success of this Academy.”
Students have expressed that the Academy reinforced the Engineer’s role as the Captain’s key support, highlighting the importance of staying calm under pressure and maintaining a focus on safety and support. Throughout the Academy, they further developed critical thinking skills, mastered essential fireground operations, strengthened leadership and command presence, and sharpened their ability to troubleshoot effectively.
For more information about the CAFMA Engineer Academy, please contact CAFMA Administration at 928-772-7711.
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ABOUT CAFMA
The Central Arizona Fire and Medical Authority (CAFMA) provides emergency services and all hazards response for 369 square miles of Yavapai County, Arizona, including the towns of Prescott Valley, Chino Valley, Dewey-Humboldt, areas of Paulden, and outlying areas of Prescott.
