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Incident Training Specialist

TNSP Incident Position Description

The Incident Training Specialist coordinates training opportunities on Type 1 and 2 incidents. They provide training expertise to incident trainees and ensures training documentation is complete for incident and trainee records.  The TNSP reports to the Planning Section Chief or other assigned supervisor. The TNSP works in the Planning functional area.​

Leadership Level 1, Follower (Provide Action)

  • For additional information review Level 1 description, expected behaviors and knowledge, suggested development goals, and self-study opportunities.

Prepare and Mobilize

Build the Team

  • Obtain work area, supplies, and communications equipment necessary to complete assignment.
  • Participate in operational briefings as directed.
  • Share knowledge of training/qualification system and processes as appropriate with trainees and evaluators.
  • Establish and maintain positive interpersonal and interagency working relationships.

Perform Training Specialist-Specific Duties

  • Identify trainees from various sources, including incident-assigned, host agency, and geographic area Priority Trainee Program.
  • Evaluate the incident for training potential. Discuss training with Command and General Staff and other incident personnel.
  • Initiate and maintain the Training Assignment List Form (fillable version).
  • Identify trainees and evaluators who are willing and available to participate in the training program.
  • Ensure the trainee has an initiated Position Task Book (PTB) and trainee position indicated on Incident Qualification Card.
  • Share current information about status of incident trainees using Incident Trainee Data Form and Incident Training Summary Form, as needed.
  • Facilitate individual trainee interviews. Interview trainees, coaches, and evaluators; first individually, then together.
  • Verify trainee qualifications, prepare trainee data forms, and develop goals and tasks.
  • Monitor the quality and effectiveness of the training assignments and schedule progress reviews for trainees.
  • Conduct the final incident trainee interview, using Incident Trainee Exit interview form.

Communicate and Coordinate

  • Meets regularly with both trainee and trainer to evaluate and ensure proper progress with an assignment.
  • Coordinate with sections and units involved with the training program.
  • Participate in functional area briefings and section After Action Reviews (AARs).

Manage Risk

  • Identify potential conflicts and resolve within the same operational period, if possible.
  • Apply the Risk Management Process as stated in the NWCG Incident Response Pocket Guide (IRPG), PMS 461:
    • Identify Hazards
    • Assess Hazards
    • Develop Controls and Make Risk Decisions
    • Implement Controls

Document

Demobilize

  • Coordinate an efficient transfer of position duties when mobilizing/demobilizing (e.g., incoming IMT, host agency). Ensure continuity of operation and exchange all critical information.
  • Return equipment and supplies to the appropriate unit.
  • Demobilize and check out, upon receiving demobilization instructions from the incident supervisor.
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NWCG Latest Announcements

Updated NWCG Guide for Wildland Fire Modules, PMS 431

Date: May 14, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
Fire Use Subcommittee

The updated NWCG Guide for Wildland Fire Modules, PMS 431 serves as a supplemental resource for wildland fire module operations, providing information frequently used in the field.

PMS 431 defines the organizational structure, staffing, and qualifications for Type 1 and Type 2 Wildland Fire Modules, outlining their roles in wildland fire suppression, prescribed fire, and resource management. The NWCG Guide for Wildland Fire Modules, PMS 431, should be used in conjunction with the NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Module Operations, PMS 430.

References:

NWCG Guide for Wildland Fire Modules, PMS 431

NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Module Operations, PMS 430

Updated NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Resource Typing, PMS 200 Now Includes Off-Highway Vehicle Typing Standards

Date: May 13, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
Mobile Fire Equipment Subcommittee 

The NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Resource Typing, PMS 200 has been updated to include newly developed Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) typing standards. These standards organize OHV information into logical categories and outline key safety requirements for occupants.

NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Resource Typing, PMS 200 establishes minimum typing standards for aircraft, crews, and equipment used in national mobilization to wildland fire incidents. Typing designations are assigned based on measurable capability and performance criteria.

References:

NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Resource Typing, PMS 200

NEW! S-204, Interpersonal and Critical Thinking Skills for Safety Officers Now Available

Date: May 12, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
Risk Management Committee

The S-204, Interpersonal and Critical Thinking Skills for Safety Officers self-directed online course is now available! Developed through the Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) effort, this training supports individuals working towards Safety Officer, Field (SOFF) incident qualifications.

S-204, Interpersonal and Critical Thinking Skills for Safety Officers focuses on facilitating hazard mitigation conversations and building trust to influence safety-related decisions. Individuals can self-enroll through the Wildland Fire Learning Portal (WFLP).

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

References:

S-204, Interpersonal and Critical Thinking Skills for Safety Officers 

NWCG Safety Officer, Field (SOFF) Position Page

Wildland Fire Learning Portal

Great Basin Cache Upgrading to New Inventory System

Date: May 7, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
Great Basin Cache
Phone: (208) 387-5104
Fax: (208) 387-5573

The Great Basin Cache (GBK) is transitioning to a new inventory system to better serve the wildland fire community. During this upgrade, GBK will be unable to process standard orders from Part 1: Fire Supplies and Equipment and Part 2: Publications between May 8-20, 2025, with exceptions made for emergency fire orders. Orders will be accepted through close of business May 7.

To browse the latest available items, please refer to the National Fire Equipment System (NFES) catalogs. 

References:

NWCG NFES Catalog-Part 1: Fire Supplies and Equipment, PMS 449-1

NWCG NFES Catalog-Part 2: Publications, PMS 449-2