How To Become A Student or Scholarship Firefighter

Three departments have collaborated to offer you real world experience while getting a degree with the University of Alaska Fairbanks.  The Chena-Goldstream, Steese, and University Fire Departments have developed a joint firefighter recruitment process. The consortium is designed specifically for student firefighters and scholarship firefighters looking to combine real on the job experience with their college education at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. One application will apply for one or all departments, depending on your preference. 

Student & Scholarship firefighters are required to:

  • Maintain 12 credit hours per semester with a grade point average of 2.00 or better;
  • Work up to 56 hours per week on rotating 24-hour shifts;
  • Maintain a satisfactory driving and criminal record, and;
  • Meet the department’s ongoing performance and conduct standards.

Follow these steps to become the next student firefighter (at any of the three departments):

  1. Fill out an online application here; Applications will be reviewed on an as-needed basis through June 30, 2020.
    1. Fill out supplemental questionnaire for specific department information
    2. Attach essay (details for essay in the application)
    3. Resume
    4. Driving Record
    5. SAT/ACT results or college/high school transcripts
    6. Two letters of recommendation
  1. Apply for admission and enroll as a student at the University of Alaska Fairbanks;
  2. Complete financial aid paperwork and be pre-approved for financial aid, if needed;
  3. Submit an IFSAC Firefighter I certificate or apply for admission to CTC Firefighter 1
  4. Pass the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT)

Contact information: 

Chena-Goldstream Volunteer Fire Department:  Frank Bracken at (907) 479-5672 or fbracken@cgfr.com

Steese Volunteer Fire Department: Samara Steele at (907) 457-3710 or samara.steele@steesefire.org

University Fire Department: Kalen Middleton at (907) 474-5770 or uaf-joinuafd@alaska.edu

Steese VFD Scholarship Program Benefits:

The scholarship award covers the following expenses through a per semester reimbursement program:

  • 12 credit hours (Alaska Resident Rate)
  • University Fees
  • Course/Material Fees
  • Textbooks
  • Parking Fee:
  • Meals

Scholarship firefighters are responsible for school expenses up front each semester and will be reimbursed after meeting the eligibility requirements. The current reimbursement rate is $6900 per semester.

A fire department dorm room will be provided free of charge (dependent on availability.)

SVFD Scholarship FAQ

For more information, contact Office Manager Samara Steele at 907-457-3710 or by Email

Chena-Goldstream Fire & Rescue Scholarship Program Benefits:

The scholarship award covers the following expenses through a per semester reimbursement program:

  • 12 credit hours (Alaska Resident Rate)
  • University Fees
  • Course/Material Fees
  • Textbooks
  • Parking Fee:
  • Meals

Scholarship firefighters are responsible for school expenses up front each semester and will be reimbursed after meeting the eligibility requirements. The current reimbursement rate is $6900 per semester.

A fire department dorm room will be provided free of charge (dependent on availability.)

For more information, contact Fire Chief Frank Bracken at 907-479-5672 or by Email

University FD  Program Benefits:

The University Fire Department is nationally-known as the only program of its kind where:

  • Students can earn a paycheck ($20,000 to $27,000 per year.)
  • Respond to actual emergencies as a certified firefighter and emergency medical technician
  • Earn a college degree.
  • 90% of our program alumni in recent years have successful careers in emergency services throughout Alaska and the other United States.
  • Help pay your way through college and get on the job experience for your future career as a firefighter.

University Fire Department Frequently Asked Questions

For more information, contact Office Manager Kalen Middleton at 907-474-5770 or by Email