Skip to main content

S-482, Strategic Operational Planning (Blended)

Course Title
Strategic Operational Planning (Blended)
Training Required For
SOPL 310-1 Training Path 01
Version Date

2015

Course Number
S-482
Course Description

This course was developed using a blended approach to learning. Students are required to complete the online training portion of the course before taking the instructor-led training portion.

S-482 is a course designed to meet the training needs of a Strategic Operational Planner (SOPL) on an incident as outlined in NIMS: Wildland Fire Qualification System Guide, PMS 310-1, and the position task book developed for the position. The online component provides background (historical and foundational) information on why the SOPL position exists and the critical role the position plays in incident management. It also describes the typical responsibilities and activities a SOPL performs on an incident. In the instructor-led component, students apply the knowledge they gained in the online component (the “knowing”) to actual practice performing the typical activities of a SOPL (the “doing” or the “how-to”).

Course Objective

Perform basic tasks commonly required of a Strategic Operational Planner (SOPL) and possess the knowledge to successfully accomplish SOPL trainee assignments.

Lead Instructor Minimum Qualifications
Lead and unit instructors must be a qualified Strategic Operational Planner (SOPL) and have experience in managing wildfires for the full range of protection and resource benefit objectives.
Format
Blended
Special Delivery Considerations

These materials are needed above and beyond the usual items (pens, paper, flip charts, markers, etc.).
Each student needs a laptop with internet access
Each small group will need:

Agency map of area (for fire exercise in Units 3 & 4)
4 marking pens of different colors for writing on Mylar
One piece of clear (not frosted) Mylar (36 x 48 inches)
Masking tape
Ruler

Space and Classroom Requirements
The characteristics of the classroom and supportive facilities have a significant impact on the learning environment. The classroom should be chosen and viewed well in advance of the presentation.

Student Information (Blended Delivery)
These materials are for the online student portion of the blended course.
This is a blended course (estimate 34-40 hours). Additional information about the course can be found on the Overview section.

Instructions for Online Component
This Blended Course Work is 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=990.

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 hours).

Business Steward
OMC Operations Management Committee
Unit Instructor Minimum Qualifications
Lead and unit instructors must be a qualified Strategic Operational Planner (SOPL) and have experience in managing wildfires for the full range of protection and resource benefit objectives.
Alternate Delivery Mode
Not Applicable
Class Size Recommendations

The recommended class size for this course is 25 to 30 students. A ratio of one instructor to every 5 or 6 students is recommended. Students will work in small groups (5 to 6 students per group). Each group will need a coach. Instructors may also function as coaches.

Class Size Recommendations

The recommended class size for this course is 25 to 30 students. A ratio of one instructor to every 5 or 6 students is recommended. Students will work in small groups (5 to 6 students per group). Each group will need a coach. Instructors may also function as coaches.

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