GEAR UP: Learn What It Takes to Become a Firefighter with EPFR

Date: Saturday, April 25, 2026
Location: Station 111 (8601 Main Street East, Bonney Lake, WA 98391)
Format: Hybrid (in-person and virtual)

Session 1: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Session 2: 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM

Both sessions will include the same presentation and Q&A.

Between sessions, attendees are invited to visit the apparatus bay from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM for a brief interactive experience that will be open to both session groups.

Parking will be available at the Bonney Lake Park and Ride, with shuttle service to Station 111 beginning at 8:20 AM.

This event is offered in a hybrid format.

• Virtual attendance is open to all registrants.

• In-person attendance is limited to individuals who will be 21 years old by December 31, 2026.

Space is limited. Registration is required for both in-person and virtual attendance.

If in-person sessions reach capacity, additional registrants will be invited to attend virtually.

This two-hour presentation and Q&A session will cover:

Application and Testing Process
Timeline, how to apply, minimum requirements, and testing steps

Pre-Employment Process
Conditional offer, CPAT requirement, background check, and screenings

Interview Preparation
Tips for oral boards, chief interviews, and common pitfalls to avoid

Fire Academy Overview
Certifications, duration, training expectations, academics, physical demands, attitude, and time commitment

Career and Benefits
A day in the life, probationary period, work schedule, special teams, pay, and benefits

Between the two presentation sessions, attendees are invited to stop by the apparatus bay for a brief interactive experience coordinated with Logistics.

Displays may include:

• Firefighter turnout gear

• SCBA and tools

• One engine

• One medic unit

Attendees may have the opportunity to handle select equipment, but no tools or equipment will be powered on.

This event is intended for individuals who are:

• Interested in pursuing a firefighter career

• Preparing to apply in the near future

• Looking to better understand the hiring and academy process

• Exploring whether the fire service is the right fit

Registration is required for all attendees.

In-person space is limited. If in-person sessions reach capacity, additional registrants will be invited to participate through the virtual option.

[Registration link coming soon]

Yes. Virtual attendance is open to all registrants.

In-person attendance is limited to individuals who will be 21 years old by December 31, 2026. Space is limited and advance registration is required. Once in-person registration reaches capacity, additional registrants are welcome to attend virtually.

If in-person sessions reach capacity, additional registrants will still be able to attend virtually.

Yes. Registration is required for all attendees.

Please park at the Bonney Lake Park and Ride. Shuttle service to Station 111 begins at 8:20 AM.

There will be a brief interactive apparatus bay experience between sessions. Attendees may view and handle select equipment, but activities will be kept minimal.