Firefighters Want More Training in 2026

Thinking about firefighting and the value it provides to our local communities, it’s important to recognize the challenges many departments face. Strained budgets and other issues can make it difficult to maintain large, around-the-clock departments.

That’s why part-time firefighters and volunteers are so important. Their commitment helps provide greater safety coverage and ensures that the people as well as businesses in our communities have the protection they rely on (Beyond insurance cost).

Training will always be a challenge because there is little to no pay for this type of work and so people need to support their families, take care of their kids, etc. Thus departments augment, some are almost always present, others have to take care of business. In our case we train every week.

(The last two weeks I missed because I was on an e-bike while I figured out the car situation. Swim coaches end and I don't have enough time, and unlikely the juice to go completely in the other direction. Now I should be back on track now that I found the right mechanic and have a backup. However, you see the point that things can get in the way.)

If you’re interested in supporting a great local department with many young volunteer and part-time recruits in the UP—one that teaches skills far beyond firefighting and helps develop the next generation of community leaders—please reach out. Tax free donations. I’d be happy to connect you with the right people.

There are a lot of things you may do in your life, especially if young, but few of them are important as protecting your community. That journey can start by joining one of our local fire departments.

What Firefighters Want in 2026: Time to Train

• Firefighters want more opportunities to train, including pursuing certifications, attending regional training, and improving their operational skills.

• Only 37% of surveyed firefighters rated the quality of their department’s training as very good or excellent.

• The biggest obstacle to adequate training is time, with 60% of respondents identifying scheduling conflicts and lack of time as the No. 1 barrier.

• Nearly 80% of respondents reported that AI-driven training makes up little or none of their department’s training, showing that emerging technology remains underused.

• The article emphasizes the need for departments to provide more consistent, relevant training and better align training programs with operational readiness.

FireRescue1. (2026, August 10). What firefighters want in 2026: Time to train. https://www.iafc.org/blogs/iafc/2026/09/02/what-firefighters-want-2026-aggressive-safe-tactics