Description: The purpose of this program is to identify emergency service personnel who demonstrate competency in the performance requirements necessary to perform the duties of a firefighter. The NFPA 1002 Standard for Fire Apparatus Driver/Operator Professional Qualifications identifies the minimum requirements for firefighters who drive and operate fire apparatus in both emergency and non-emergency situations. A person certified at the Aerial Driver/Operator level will have demonstrated competency in the necessary knowledge and skills, to perform the minimum requirements of an emergency vehicle driver/operator.

In addition to aerial driver/operator training, Emergency Vehicle Operator Training (EVOT) will be covered as well. EVOT is a 16-hour classroom-based program with outdoor practical work. Civil, criminal, and punitive damages and charges may become a part of your vocabulary if one of your vehicles is involved in a crash that injures or kills one of your staff members, a patient, or a civilian vehicle operator/pedestrian. The program also prepares operators to become better professional emergency vehicle operators when it involves their own personal safety of their crew, their patient, and the community they are serving.

Those students who meet the prerequisites and successfully complete the course will be eligible to test for Pennsylvania State and National Certification as Driver/Operator - Pumper Apparatus at the conclusion of class.

Training Audience: Anyone who in the course of their duties is responsible for the operation of an aerial apparatus

Prerequisites: Firefighter I Certification, Valid Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Driver’s License, and 18 years of Age

Course Length: 35 - hours

Certification: ProBoard Driver/Operator - Aerial Certification and the following Pennsylvania State Fire Academy certificates will be issued upon completion of the course: Aerial Apparatus Practices (AELA),　Emergency Vehicle Driver Training (EVDT) Aerial.