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S-273, Single Engine Airtanker Manager (Blended)

Course Title
Single Engine Airtanker Manager (Blended)
Training Required For
SEMG 310-1 Training Path 01, ATBM 310-1 Training Path 01
Version Date

2011

Previous Certification Dates

2003-06

Course Number
S-273
Other Training Which Supports
Fixed Wing Base Manager (FWBM)
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 Objective

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

Lead Instructor Minimum Qualifications
Lead and unit instructors must be qualified as Single Engine Airtanker Manager (SEMG).
Format
Blended
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)

Business Steward
AMC Aviation Management Committee
Unit Instructor Minimum Qualifications
Lead and unit instructors must be qualified as Single Engine Airtanker Manager (SEMG).
Alternate Delivery Mode
Not Applicable
Class Size Recommendations

Recommended class size is 20-24 students. Instructors should maintain a 5:1 ratio of students to instructors/coaches to facilitate exercises and discussion and to enable strong mentorship to the students.

Class Size Recommendations

Recommended class size is 20-24 students. Instructors should maintain a 5:1 ratio of students to instructors/coaches to facilitate exercises and discussion and to enable strong mentorship to the students.

NWCG Latest Announcements

Intermediate Faller (FAL2) Position Task Book Update

Date:  July 24, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Tree Felling Subcommittee

NWCG Operations Management Committee (OMC) has issued an update to the NWCG Position Task Book for Intermediate Faller (FAL2), PMS 311-91. To ensure clarity for both trainees and evaluators, the updated FAL2 Position Task Book (PTB) explicitly states who is authorized to sign off on your tasks:

“Evaluators must be qualified as a FAL2, or an Advanced Faller (FAL1).”

If you are currently working out of a previously published version of the FAL2 PTB, you do not need to restart. However, OMC highly encourages you to take the following step to prevent any confusion in the field:

  • Print and replace the updated evaluator information page (page 2) in your current physical PTB.

References:

Intermediate Faller (FAL2) Position Page

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

NWCG Position Task Book for Intermediate Faller (FAL2), PMS 311-91

Equipment Advisory 26-001: Potential Front Driveline Joint Failure on 2018 and Earlier Ram Pickups

Date:  July 10, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Equipment and Technology Subcommittee

The Logistics/Equipment Management Committee (LMC) has released Equipment Advisory 26-001: Potential Front Driveline Joint Failure on 2018 and Earlier Ram Pickups. This advisory highlights multiple U.S. Forest Service regions reporting front driveline joint failure incidents.

This advisory recommends firefighters and fire managers to: 

  • Follow all Ram-issued inspection, maintenance, and service guidance for front driveline joints. 
  • Consider installing a driveline loop. 
  • Coordinate with fleet managers and service providers to determine the most appropriate driveline loop kit for each pickup.

For further details, please refer to the complete advisory.

References:

Equipment Advisory 26-001: Potential Front Driveline Joint Failure on 2018 and Earlier Ram Pickups

Technical Service Bulletin: 03-002-21

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