The BC Government is establishing a wildfire training and education centre at Thompson Rivers University in Kamloops.
The training centre will be a first-of-its-kind program, stemming from recommendations from Premier David Eby’s Task Force on Emergencies.
“Last summer, British Columbians endured the worst wildfire season our province has ever seen, and we only got through it thanks to the heroic efforts of our brave firefighters,” Eby said.
“Our government is taking action to ensure we are better prepared for future climate emergencies, and that starts by developing and supporting our teams of first responders.”
According to the province, the cetnre will be the first in North America to transition wildfire training into degree programs and research, offering comprehensive wildfire training and education programs that progress from basic skills training and learning in the wildfire field.
“Being part of a broader, collaborative effort with the BC Wildfire Service is a great honour and we look forward to working side by side on initiatives that contribute to building a safer, more resilient future for our communities,” said TRU President and Vice-Chancellor Brett Fairbairn.
“This partnership reinforces TRU’s commitment to leading world-class research, training and innovation to improve how British Columbians adapt to living with wildfires.”
Program design will start this year, with intakes for program training starting in 2025.
According to the province there are plans underway to develop a state-of-the-art training facility and building.
By 2028-29, the province is anticipating more than 1,000 workshops will be offered per year, which will translate into 10,000 course registrations.
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