May 01, 2026  
2025-2026 Academic Calendar 
    
2025-2026 Academic Calendar

Emergency Services Technology, 48-week Diploma

Location(s): Emergency Training Centre, Face-to-Face (F2F)


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Emergency Services Technology (EST) is a full-time diploma program providing a combination of firefighting services and employability skills. This unique and comprehensive program provides preparation for entry-level career positions in municipal and industrial firefighting.

Admission Requirements:

1. Minimum age 18 by program start date.
2. A high school diploma with a minimum of:

  • 50% in English 30-1 or English 30-2
  • 50% in Math 20-3
  • 50% in one of any grade 12 science (Biology 30 is preferred)

3. Proof of English language proficiency.
4. Proof of a valid Unrestricted Alberta Class 5 or equivalent driver’s licence (with GDL is acceptable). Drivers must have no more than five demerit points to operate a Lakeland College vehicle.
5. Proof of airbrake endorsement. Must be reflected on your driver’s licence. A temporary or interim licence is acceptable.
6. Proof of medical clearance. The ETC Medical Fitness & Risk Disclosure Package includes an applicant declaration of understanding and consent (Form A) and a physician medical clearance (Form B) that must be completed within 1 year of program start date.
7. Completed EST - Fire Program Checklist. Must be completed within 1 year from the start date of the program.
8. Proof of CPR-C certification. Must be valid to the program end date.
9. Proof of Standard First Aid (SFA) or Advanced First Aid (AFA) or Emergency Medical Responder (EMR). 

  • SFA or AFA must be valid to the program end date and be on the list of Alberta approved first aid training agencies.
  • EMR certificate/transcript must indicate a graduation date within 12 months prior to the program start date.

Notes:

Students must have computer application skills including word processing, preparing spreadsheets and performing web research tasks.

Those without the academic requirements may qualify for special student status (entrance screening); however, fire departments may require you to have a high school diploma.

All applicants, regardless of citizenship of country of origin, must meet our English Language Proficiency requirement. Out-of-province applicants or those not meeting the admission and/or program requirements should refer to the Admissions section of the website. 

Practicum Requirements:

  • A clear criminal record check will be required for your practicum placement. Contact your local RCMP detachment for cost and procedure.
  • A driver’s abstract may also be required.

Graduation Requirements:

Students who complete the requirements will be awarded an Emergency Services Technology diploma.

Upon successful completion, students will also be eligible to receive the following certifications.

    NFPA 1001 - Fire Fighter Level II
    NFPA 1002 - Fire Apparatus Driver/Operator
    NFPA 1140 - Wildland Firefighter Level I
    NFPA 470 - Dangerous Goods Operations Level

    NFPA 1002 - Fire Apparatus - Pumping Operations
    NFPA 1002 - Aerial Apparatus
    NFPA 1006 - Confined Space Rescue Operations Level
    NFPA 1006 - Rope Rescue Operations Level
    NFPA 1041 - Fire Service Instructor Level I

 

 

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