College representative asks commission to back new associate degree in fire science

A college representative addressed the Firefighting Commission on Feb. 4, 2026, proposing an Associate of Science degree in fire science to expand access to credentials and recruit firefighters from rural areas. "We're proposing to stand up an a s degree in fire signs," the presenter said, outlining a curriculum, a crosswalk to NFPA standards and ways to convert existing industry certificates into college credit.

The presenter said the program would include six core classes, a set of electives, and pathways for students to progress to bachelor’s programs. She highlighted three funding pathways: coverage for up to five dual-enrollment courses through the state, benefits for students who used Tennessee Promise funds, and eligibility for Tennessee Reconnect for adults over 23. On timing, she told commissioners the program could be activated "within the next 3 months" and asked to return with a finalized packet when local partnerships were secured.

Commissioners pressed the presenter on delivery methods and staffing. One commissioner asked whether courses would be offered in person or online; the presenter said a mix of in-person, online and credit-by-examination (CLA) options were planned. Several commissioners welcomed the focus on recruitment, with one noting that early dual-enrollment could steer high-school students into firefighting careers. The presenter said the curriculum maps to state and national standards and included a crosswalk document in the meeting packet.

The commission did not make a final decision on the proposal during the meeting; the presenter asked for permission to return at a future meeting with a formal letter and a completed partnership list. The presenter also offered to provide the packet to commissioners and staff in advance.

Next steps: the presenter will finalize partnerships and return with a formal packet for commission review and possible approval at a later meeting.