University Fire Department

UFD is a fully functioning fire and emergency medical service that protects the University of Alaska Fairbanks campus and its students, employees, and visitors. We also contract with the Fairbanks North Star Borough to provide these services to area residents and businesses. We operate a variety of engines, ladder trucks and ambulances out of two stations, one on campus and one off campus. The unique part is we are staffed entirely by full-time UAF students trained and supervised by a staff of nine career IAFF fire officers. Our student firefighters get the same training and certifications as professional firefighters anywhere and provide the highest available level of fire, rescue, and advanced life support care. The firefighters are required to be students with the University of Alaska Fairbanks. They must carry a minimum of 12 credits and maintain at least a 2.0 grade point average. The students attend school while on duty and respond from class when necessary. Firefighters are full-time student employees and therefore, work through the summer. Student firefighters are assigned to one of three shifts and work an average of 56 hours per week. Although student firefighters do not have vacation time, they are allowed multiple shift trades. The commitment from the student firefighters toward school and work is rigorous and requires self-discipline. The firefighters are paid $20K-$30K per year, which is enough to college attending school full-time. University Fire Department's mission is to provide effective fire, rescue, and emergency medical services while preparing student employees for leadership in emergency services. University Fire Department is committed to assisting student firefighters to succeed in that mission.