Our History

For over 5 decades, the California Fire Mechanics Academy, Inc. (CFMA) has been the nation’s oldest and largest training program dedicated to emergency apparatus repair and maintenance. First established in 1970, the Academy has been serving as a cornerstone of professional development for fire service mechanics and emergency vehicle technicians.

The Academy’s origins trace back to its first session in 1971 at the LeBaron Hotel in San Diego, California. Originally called the Fire Service Mechanics Workshop, the inaugural program offered six classes over the course of a week and welcomed 119 registered participants. See a list of Academy locations and honorees since 1971.

Today, the Academy tries to offer up to 30 classes each year, ranging from introductory theory to advanced courses supporting State Fire Mechanic Certification and Re-certification. Annual attendance for both academies now averages approximately 400 students from across the United States. From its inception, CFMA has been guided by dedicated leaders and volunteers from throughout California who generously contribute their time and expertise to train emergency maintenance personnel.

The Academy provides a wide array of multi-level workshops, hands-on training, and in-depth technical classes designed to serve all skill levels in fire apparatus and equipment maintenance.   Students are prepared for certification through California State Fire Training (SFT), the Emergency Vehicle Technician Certification Commission (EVTCC), and Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). Instruction is delivered by a diverse team of fire service professionals, factory technicians, community college instructors, and subject-matter experts, ensuring a rich and practical learning experience.

In addition to classes, each spring the Academy hosts the California Emergency Equipment Showcase, the only emergency vehicle and equipment exhibition scheduled in Northern California. This event provides manufacturers the opportunity to connect directly with technicians, answer questions, and display the latest state-of-the-art fire apparatus, equipment, and related products. The Showcase is open to all and fosters valuable networking opportunities.

Each year, the CFMA also proudly awards up to five tuition scholarships to support students in pursuing their professional development. For more information about the Academy, please contact the CFMA Administrative Office at (916) 333-5044 or email info@cafiremech.org.