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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! L-280, Followership to Leadership (Instructor-led) Course

Date: October 3, 2024
Questions? Please contact:
Leadership Committee

NWCG is pleased to announce the updated L-280, Followership to Leadership (Instructor-led) course is now available. L-280 is intended for operational personnel at the Firefighter Type 1 level, and for individuals pursuing Leadership Level 2, New Leader. 

This instructor-led course is a primer on leadership and the second formal course in the Wildland Fire Leadership Development Program. It helps emerging leaders build the confidence, skills, and mindset needed to lead effectively in high-risk environments. 

For more information about leadership development and available courses, visit the Leadership Committee Web Portal.

References:

L-280, Followership to Leadership (Instructor-led)

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Equipment Technology Committee 

The Equipment Technology Committee (ETC) has released Equipment Advisory 25-01: Pre-2006 Fire Shelter Degradation and Discontinuation of Use. This advisory recommends all pre-2006 fire shelters should be removed from service by January 1, 2026.

This advisory recommends firefighters and fire managers to:

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Equipment Advisory 25-01: Pre-2006 Fire Shelter Degradation and Discontinuation of Use

NWCG Fire Inspection Flowchart, PMS 411-1

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Date: Sept 11, 2025
Questions? Please contact:
Fuels Management Committee 

The S-219, Firing Operations (Blended) course is now available on the Wildland Fire Learning Portal. Developed through the Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) effort, this training supports individuals working towards Firing Boss, Single Resource (FIRB) incident qualifications.

This blended course combines online and instructor-led training to provide students with the knowledge and skills required to perform the duties of the FIRB, as described in the NWCG Incident Position Standards for Firing Boss, Single Resource, PMS 350-105.

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 2026.

References:

S-219, Firing Operations (Blended)

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Date: Sep 5, 2025
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The NWCG Mental Health Subcommittee (MHSC) and Risk Management Committee (RMC) recognize the unique challenges and demands faced by the wildland fire community. The MHSC and RMC know that we are all stronger together and believe in fostering a culture of support, understanding, and resilience.

Suicide Prevention Awareness encourages us to actively connect with and support each other. For more information that could make a difference for yourself or someone else please review the materials and resources provided for the 2025 Suicide Prevention Awareness Week.

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2025 Suicide Prevention Awareness Week Materials and Resources