Staff & Employment

BURN SEASON CLOSED

20875 4th Street, Cottonwood, California 96022, United States

Cottonwood Fire Protection District

rerserve firefighter program

Mission Statement

The Cottonwood Fire Protection District Reserve Firefighter Program is committed to serving our community through professionalism, integrity, and dedication to public safety. Our mission is to provide trained volunteer firefighters who support emergency response, wildfire operations, fire prevention, and community service efforts while fostering leadership, teamwork, and hands-on experience in the fire service. Through training, readiness, and a commitment to excellence, Reserve Firefighters strengthen the District’s ability to protect lives, property, and the community we proudly serve.

What to Expect as a Reserve Firefighter

The Reserve Firefighter Program offers individuals the opportunity to serve their community while gaining valuable fire service experience in a professional all-hazards fire department environment. Whether you are completely new to the fire service or already possess certifications and experience, the program is designed to provide meaningful training, mentorship, and operational involvement.

Individuals With No Prior Experience

Applicants without prior fire service experience can expect to receive hands-on training and mentorship from experienced firefighters and officers. Reserve Firefighters are introduced to the fundamentals of:

Firefighter safety and operations
Wildland and structure firefighting
Emergency medical response
Radio communications and incident operations
Equipment use and apparatus familiarization
Teamwork, discipline, and station responsibilities

New members will participate in regular drills, training exercises, and station activities while working toward required certifications and operational readiness.

Individuals With Prior Experience or Certifications

Applicants with previous fire, EMS, military, or public safety experience may have opportunities for accelerated integration into operational assignments based on qualifications and demonstrated competency. Experienced members can expect:

Continued skills development
Wildland fire deployment opportunities
Leadership and mentoring roles
Participation in advanced training
Operational response alongside career personnel

Program Expectations

Reserve Firefighters are expected to maintain professionalism, attend required training, complete assigned shifts, and uphold the values and standards of the District. Members become part of a team-oriented environment focused on protecting the community and supporting one another. Reserve Firefighters must also possess the ability to function effectively in stressful, physically demanding, and rapidly changing emergency environments while maintaining sound judgment, composure, and accountability.

The program is ideal for individuals interested in:

Serving their community
Gaining real-world fire service experience
Preparing for a career in fire or emergency services
Expanding existing firefighting skills and certifications
Participating in wildfire and all-hazards emergency response operations

Through dedication and training, Reserve Firefighters become an important part of the District’s emergency response capability and community service mission.

Open Application Period - Continuous

We are currently seeking motivated individuals who are interested in becoming Volunteer Firefighters for the Community of Cottonwood as members of the Reserve Firefighters Association of Cottonwood.

Our Reserve Firefighter Program is specifically designed to allow individuals to continue working full-time jobs and attend college. Our flex-scheduling system allows each member to choose their working days each month. Reserves receive a stipend of $100 for each 24hr shift worked.

Minimum Requirements: FEMA IS-100, IS-200, IS-700, IS-800, NWCG S130, S190, L180 all available online. Valid CPR card, EMS Certification - Public Safety First Aid or Higher, and must obtain SSV EMR EMS License within 12 months.

ONline Training

FEMA - IC-100 - Introduction to incident command system

FEMA - ic-700 - Introduction to national incident management system

FEMA - IC-200 - BAsic incident command system for Initial RESPONSE

Online Certification

FEMA - IC-200 - BAsic incident command system for Initial RESPONSE

FEMA - ic-700 - Introduction to national incident management system

FEMA - IC-200 - BAsic incident command system for Initial RESPONSE

Online certification

FEMA - ic-700 - Introduction to national incident management system

online certification

FEMa - Is-800 - introduction to national response framework

FEMA - ic-700 - Introduction to national incident management system

online certification

nwcg - wildland fire learning portal, s130, s190, l180

FEMa - Is-800 - introduction to national response framework

nwcg - wildland fire learning portal, s130, s190, l180

online certifications

A-Shift

MIke Weeger

Battalion Chief/Fire Marshal/PIO

Email: mweeger@cottonwoodfd.com

Mike began his career in emergency services as an EMT with an ambulance provider in the Bay Area. He later served as a Reserve Firefighter/EMT with the Alameda County Fire Department before relocating to Redding, California, where he joined the Cottonwood Fire Protection District as a volunteer and was subsequently hired as a full-time firefighter.

Prior to transitioning into Fire and EMS, Mike spent 18 years in the construction industry, building a strong foundation in leadership, project management, and business operations. His combined experience in construction and emergency services reflects a commitment to professionalism, hard work, and service to the community.

Outside of his professional responsibilities, Mike enjoys spending time outdoors with family and friends. He takes advantage of the many recreational opportunities in Shasta County, including camping, kayaking, and fishing.

C-Shift

John Gleason

Captain/EMT

Email jgleason@cottonwoodfd.com

I am Captain John Gleason, and it has been my privilege to serve with the Cottonwood Fire Protection District since 2021. As Captain, I lead our team in responding to emergency calls, enhancing community outreach efforts, and overseeing comprehensive training programs to ensure our personnel are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to serve with excellence. I hold certifications in Firefighter II, EMT, and Engine Boss, and I am honored to serve as the department’s Training Officer.

My dedication to continuous professional development ensures that I remain focused on providing the highest standard of service to our community. What drives me in this profession is the opportunity to make a meaningful and lasting impact on the safety and well-being of those we serve. The ability to be a trusted and reliable figure in my community, and especially for my son, fuels my commitment to this important work.

Beyond my professional duties, I find balance in spending quality time with my family—whether it's enjoying a family BBQ, riding dirt bikes with my son, or exploring the great outdoors. These moments reinforce my sense of purpose and remind me of the values I strive to live by both at work and at home.

Cottonwood Fire Protection District

rerserve firefighter program

Download Application

ONline Training

FEMA - IC-100 - Introduction to incident command system

FEMA - ic-700 - Introduction to national incident management system

FEMA - IC-200 - BAsic incident command system for Initial RESPONSE

FEMA - IC-200 - BAsic incident command system for Initial RESPONSE

FEMA - ic-700 - Introduction to national incident management system

FEMA - IC-200 - BAsic incident command system for Initial RESPONSE

FEMA - ic-700 - Introduction to national incident management system

FEMA - ic-700 - Introduction to national incident management system

FEMA - ic-700 - Introduction to national incident management system

FEMa - Is-800 - introduction to national response framework

FEMa - Is-800 - introduction to national response framework

FEMA - ic-700 - Introduction to national incident management system

nwcg - wildland fire learning portal, s130, s190, l180

FEMa - Is-800 - introduction to national response framework

nwcg - wildland fire learning portal, s130, s190, l180

career

Full-time & part-time Employment

A-Shift

MIke Weeger

B-Shift

Bill Morgan

C-Shift

John Gleason

Part-time and Volunteer Staff

Administrative

part-time seasonal

Reserve Firefighters