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S-273, Single Engine Airtanker Manager (Blended)

Course Description

This course was developed using a blended approach to learning. This course is designed to meet the training needs of a Single Engine Airtanker Manager (SEMG) as outlined in the NIMS: Wildland Fire Qualification System Guide, PMS 310-1, and the position task book developed for the position.

Course Objectives

Perform the tasks required of a SEMG to mobilize and transition into an incident aviation environment.

Prerequisite Training

Successful completion of S-270, Basic Air Operations.

Alternate Delivery Mode

Alternate Delivery Mode
Not Applicable
Training Required For
SEMG 310-1 Training Path 01, ATBM 310-1 Training Path 01
Lead Instructor Minimum Qualifications
Lead and unit instructors must be qualified as Single Engine Airtanker Manager (SEMG).
Unit Instructor Minimum Qualifications
Lead and unit instructors must be qualified as Single Engine Airtanker Manager (SEMG).
Business Steward
ABOU Airtanker Base Operations Unit
Course Level
Local
Format
Blended
Course Number
S-273
Other Training Which Supports
FWBM Fixed Wing Base Manager
Course Title
Single Engine Airtanker Manager (Blended)
Online Training Hours
4-6

Special Delivery Considerations

Instructions for Online Component
The Pre-Course Work module and assessment are available in the NWCG Wildland Fire Learning Portal (WFLP). Log on as a guest to search for this course or go directly to https://wildlandfirelearningportal.net/course/view.php?id=986.

Instructions for Instructor-Led Component
Refer to the course selection letter for the location, dates, and times of the instructor-led component of the course (estimate 24-30 hours). Assemble your kit and bring either hard copies or a USB device containing the materials. The kit should include guides, reference materials, and forms.

Information on kit items and references can be found in the NWCG Standards for Airtanker Base Operations – Appendices (docx); Appendix N, and Appendix O, at NWCG Standards for Airtanker Base Operations, PMS 508.

Specific planning documents for SEAT operations are also available on the National SEAT website. Kit materials and documents will be a part of your final grade.

These materials are needed above and beyond the usual items (pens, paper, flip charts, markers, etc.). A computer with LCD projector, presentation software, and internet access (for instructors) Flip chart, paper, and markers (1 per instructor and 1 per small group)

Version Date

2011

Previous Certification Dates

2003-06

NWCG Latest Announcements

NEW! S-212, Intermediate Faller (Online) Course Available Now 

Date:  April 23, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Hazard Tree and Tree Felling Subcommittee

NWCG is pleased to announce that the new S‑212, Intermediate Faller (Online), course is now available on the Wildland Fire Learning Portal (WFLP). This second course in the series provides students with the knowledge and skills required to perform the duties of an Intermediate Faller (FAL2), as described in the FAL2 Incident Position Description. This course is intended for individuals seeking to advance from Basic Faller (FAL3) to FAL2.

S‑212, Intermediate Faller is a fully online, self‑paced training program consisting of 13 units. Learners will engage with interactive, scenario‑based content designed to progressively build foundational skills and knowledge essential for the FAL2 role.

Students must be qualified as a Basic Faller (FAL3) prior to enrolling in S‑212, Intermediate Faller course.

Any changes to qualification pathways will take effect with the next update of the NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Position Qualifications, PMS 310-1, scheduled for January 2027.

References:

S-212 Intermediate Faller (Online)

RMC Memo 26-01: Transition Plan for Implementing Updates to Intermediate Faller (FAL2) Position Qualifications

Intermediate Faller (FAL2) Position Page

NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Chainsaw Operations, PMS 212

New Aircraft Flight Schedule Form, PMS 249

Date:  April 17, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: National Coordination System Committee

A new publication from the National Coordination System Committee (NCSC) is now available. The NWCG Aircraft Flight Schedule Form, PMS 249, will be used for aviation crews and dispatch to share flight information that is needed for resource tracking, and if needed, for emergency procedures.

For further details, please contact your NCSC representative. 

References:

NCSC Memo 26-01: Implementation of NWCG Aircraft Flight Schedule Form, PMS 249

NWCG Aircraft Flight Schedule Form, PMS 249

New Glossary Term for Review

Date:  April 15, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Data Standards and Terminology Board (DSTB)

The Data Standards and Terminology Board is requesting feedback on a new glossary term: Resource Protection Measure (RPM).

The proposed definition is: Practical guidance provided for incident personnel in a manner in which incident objectives can be achieved while reducing impacts to identified resources across the landscape. RPMs are informed by, but not restricted to, Minimum Impact Strategies and Tactics (MIST).

Please review, share with your subgroups, and provide feedback as appropriate through the following form: Request Feedback The comment period will close May 10, 2026.

Thank you for your engagement in the NWCG glossary process – your participation is key to our success.

References:

Glossary Request Feedback

Quarter Three Materials for the 2025-2026 Wildland Fire Leadership Campaign Now Available

Date:  April 1, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Leadership Committee

NWCG is excited to announce that Quarter Three materials for the 2025/2026 Wildland Fire Leadership Campaign are now available. This annual initiative offers all students of leadership and wildland fire management an opportunity to engage with essential leadership skills and knowledge needed to lead effectively in dynamic environments.

Quarter Three materials focus on Leadership Level 3: Leader of People (Develop Intent). Leadership Level 3 is where your values, your team, and your influence come together. Leaders of People put their teams first, build trust, and lead with authenticity. They mentor future leaders and shape decisions up and down the chain.

References:

2025/2026 NWCG Leadership Campaign - Leadership Levels

Wildland Fire Leadership Development Program

Leadership Committee