NVFC Electric Vehicle/Alternative Fuel Vehicle Train-the-Trainer Course

Background

According to the National Fire Protection Association, crashes or incidents involving alternative fuel vehicles (AFV), including electric vehicles (EV), can result in potentially fatal, on-scene injuries to both emergency responders and vehicle occupants due to stranded energy, unexpected silent movement, toxic/flammable gases, battery fires, electric shock, and more. Training continues to be critical in ensuring responders know the dangers and how to handle AFV incidents safely. To help meet the need for quality training nationwide, the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) is inviting fire service instructors to apply to serve as NVFC EV/AFV course instructors and providing hands-on training for selected applicants. This training opportunity is sponsored by General Motors.

Who Should Apply

The NVFC is looking for experienced fire service instructors from diverse geographic locations across the United States. All applicants must hold a minimum of Fire Instructor I certification (Pro Board or IFSAC), Haz Mat to the Operations Level, Vehicle Machinery Rescue training, and have verifiable experience in training diverse populations. Successful applicants will have the ability to attend the hands-on train-the-trainer seminar on June 23-24, 2024; coordinate and deliver a 3-4 hour training by September 2024; and provide ongoing training to their regions. Applicants must also be willing to commit to on-going EV/AFV Instructor development as the program continues.

Expectations

The NVFC EV/AFV Train-the-Trainer program has three key components:

  1. In-Person Training: All selected applicants will be required to attend a hands-on EV/AFV train-the-trainer event, to be held June 23-24 in Buffalo, NY. Participants will complete approximately 10 hours of training and leave prepared to facilitate knowledge transfer in their regions.
  2. Course Delivery: Instructors must then teach at least one 3-4 hour in-person training for a minimum of 25 individuals in their region by September 2024. The NVFC will support instructors by providing course materials and instructor manuals; helping to identify training locations/interested departments; helping locate a demo vehicle for each training; and covering all travel related expenses, including a small instructor stipend.
  3. Looking Ahead: The NVFC will add newly trained instructors to our instructor database and send requests for future training opportunities. Trainers are also encouraged to continue seeking opportunities in their regions. Instructors must notify the NVFC when they teach the course and submit program evaluations, to help track program reach, document lessons learned, and ensure program success.

Train-the-Trainer Course Details

Sunday, June 23, 9am-5pm, and Monday, June 24, 9am-12pm
Buffalo, NY

  • Training location TBD – transportation provided
  • Hotel: Hyatt Regency Buffalo Downtown
  • Please note, this event follows the NVFC’s Training Summit, taking place June 21-22 at the Hyatt Regency. Selected EV/AFV course attendees will be offered a complimentary Summit registration (value $129).

Travel Reimbursement

The NVFC will cover approved travel expenses including up to 2 nights lodging, transportation (airfare or mileage), local transportation, and meals. Additional details to be provided upon selection.

How to Apply

Complete the application form by Thursday, February 29. Notifications will be sent by March 15.

Questions

Contact Rachel Buczynski, chief of training and education, at rachel@nvfc.org or 202-887-5700 x130.