Skip to main content

S-358, Communications Unit Leader (ILT)

Course Title
Communications Unit Leader (ILT)
Version Date

2008

Previous Certification Dates

2001-09

Course Number
S-358
Other Training Which Supports
COML Communications Unit Leader
Course Description

This course is designed to provide skills and knowledge needed to perform in the role of Communications Unit Leader (COML). Topics include mobilization, establishing the communications unit, communications system design and ordering, communications system installation and maintenance, communications equipment assignment and accountability, incident communications center, internal and external coordination, demobilization, and current communications issues and technology.

Course Objective

Design, order, and ensure the installation and maintenance of all communications systems to support the incident.

Prerequisite Qualifications Notes

COMT Incident Communications Technician

Lead Instructor Minimum Qualifications
Lead and unit instructors must be qualified Communications Unit Leaders (COML).
Format
Instructor Led
Special Delivery Considerations

Additional Materials and Equipment Needed
These materials are needed above and beyond the usual items (pens, paper, flip charts, markers, etc.)

Five Steps to a Safe Flight (NFES 1399)
One Package, ICS Form 213, General Message (NFES 1336)
National Incident Radio Support Cache User’s Guide
(NFES 0968)
Basic Aviation Safety Student Guide (NFES 2097)

It is required that the Operations Chief or Training Program Manager for the National Incident Communications and Infrared Operations Unit (NIC/
IRO) be contacted for equipment updates, handout materials, an up-to-date list of qualified instructors, and radio equipment requirements.

Course Updates
All radio equipment and radio frequency use for the course (classroom simulations, field exercises, course logistics, etc.) requires specific authorization and must be coordinated and assigned through the local agency frequency coordinator or the Communications Duty Officer at the NIFC National Interagency Incident Communications Division, as appropriate. Radio equipment and frequencies for training should be requested well in advance of course start date (at least two months) and shall be released/returned to the issuing entity upon course conclusion.

Applies to 2008 Version.

Business Steward
LMC Logistic and Equipment Management Committee
Unit Instructor Minimum Qualifications
Lead and unit instructors must be qualified Communications Unit Leaders (COML).
Alternate Delivery Mode
Not Applicable
Class Size Recommendations

The recommended class size is 18 students. The recommended student-to-instructor ratio is 3:1. Cadre members should be present for all instructional sessions. A minimum of six instructors should present this course; however, more instructors are required if a field exercise is incorporated. This is to enable strong mentorship by the cadre to the students.

Class Size Recommendations

The recommended class size is 18 students. The recommended student-to-instructor ratio is 3:1. Cadre members should be present for all instructional sessions. A minimum of six instructors should present this course; however, more instructors are required if a field exercise is incorporated. This is to enable strong mentorship by the cadre to the students.

NWCG Latest Announcements

NEW! NWCG Standard Operating Procedures, PMS 900

Date:  July 9, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: NWCG Staff

NWCG is excited to announce the publication of the NWCG Standard Operating Procedures, PMS 900.

The new publication establishes general, consistent, and uniform standards for conducting business with the National Wildfire Coordinating Group.

References:

NWCG Standard Operating Procedures, PMS 900

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

Date:  July 8, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Leadership Development Subcommittee

NWCG is excited to announce that Fourth Quarter 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 Four materials focus on Leadership Level 4: Leader of Leaders (Provide Direction). Leadership Level 4 is where you are setting the conditions for others to do things well, even when you are not present. This quarter focuses on equipping experienced leaders with skills to provide direction, build trust across teams, and foster strong decision making. 

References:

2025/2026 NWCG Leadership Campaign - Leadership Levels

Wildland Fire Leadership Development Program

Leadership Development Subcommittee

2026 Week of Remembrance

Date:  June 30, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: 6 Minutes for Safety Subcommittee

As we approach the 2026 Week of Remembrance (WOR), June 30–July 6, we dedicate this time to reflect on past incidents from 2016 and honor the fallen through learning. Since its inception in 2014, WOR has honored wildland firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice while encouraging critical discussions that reinforce lessons learned.

Throughout the week, we encourage thoughtful and generative conversations that promote a culture of continuous learning and safety.

References:

2026 Week of Remembrance: Letter to Leadership

Wildland Fire Lessons Learned Center

RMC Memorandum 26-02: SAFENET Modernization and SafeNetX Launch

Date:  June 25, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Risk Management Committee

The Risk Management Committee (RMC) is pleased to announce the launch of SafeNetX, the modernized safety reporting system now available to the wildland fire community. Effective June 15, 2026, SafeNetX enables reporting of unsafe, unhealthy, near-miss, and high-risk operations across wildland fire, all-hazard incidents, training, and related work environments.

SafeNetX is the result of a multi-agency modernization effort led by RMC, which began evaluating improvements to the legacy SAFENET system in 2021. To learn more, read the full RMC memorandum in the links provided.

References:

SafeNetX

RMC Safety Memorandum 26-02: SAFENET Modernization and SafeNet X Launch