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How to Become an IAFF Instructor

Prospective applicants must attend the specific course related to the cadre they are applying to and be familiar with IAFF programs and the interactive facilitation style.

The selection of IAFF instructors is extremely competitive, and the IAFF does not add new instructors every year.

Prospective applicants must attend the specific course related to the cadre they are applying to and be familiar with IAFF programs and the interactive facilitation style.

During Train the Trainer (TtT) classes, students are evaluated by master instructors and their peers while conducting teach-backs of portions of the curriculum. This practice enables applicants to become familiar with the IAFF facilitation style of instruction and delivery format.

How do I apply to become an instructor?

To apply for an IAFF instructor position, the following items are required:

  • Current resume
  • Instructor application form
  • Successful completion of the TtT course or relevant pre-requisite course content
  • A 10-minute video of the applicant facilitating or teaching students that demonstrates the applicant’s ability to:
    • Facilitate a class of 15-25 students using a team-teaching approach
    • Work effectively with small groups
    • Debrief an exercise
    • Promote audience participation specific to the desired instructor cadre curriculum
  • Letter of support from the applicant’s Local president
What is the approval process for becoming an IAFF instructor?
  • The Local president submits the application package to the respective IAFF District Vice President (DVP) for approval and forwarding to the IAFF General President
  • IAFF staff schedules an interview with the applicant and makes a recommendation to the General President regarding conditional approval
  • If the respective cadre is full, the applicant will be placed on a waiting list and contacted when an opening occurs, based on cadre size and district representation
  • If approved, the General President’s Office will send the applicant a letter of Conditional Approval outlining next steps
What should I expect after approval?
  • After receiving a letter of Conditional Approval, the applicant will:
    • Be invited to the Instructor Development Conference
    • Assigned a Master Instructor as a mentor
    • Proceed through the mentoring process as a probationary instructor
  • If the applicant successfully completes the probationary period, IAFF staff will recommend full appointment to the instructor cadre by the General President
  • If an instructor candidate does not successfully complete the probationary conditions, the Assistant to the General President of Health and Safety will notify the General President with recommendations regarding termination of the appointment or next steps