The Illinois Fire Service Institute (IFSI) is the oldest continuous fire training institution in the United States. Since 1925, first responders from across the state, nation, and the world have relied on IFSI to deliver hands-on, innovative, and top-quality training, education, and research.
IFSI focuses on research that directly effects on first responders’ work, health, and safety. IFSI Research projects are done on the Champaign training grounds, on the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign campus, and at partner facilities across the country.
The main IFSI campus offers a 28-acre training ground with innovative, Class-A, live-fire and technical rescue props and training equipment. Additionally, IFSI maintains an active fleet of mobile training resources that support hands-on and engaging educational efforts at locations across Illinois and the country. Each year, nearly 65% of IFSI students complete courses at locations other than the main campus.
IFSI reaches approximately 60,000 students yearly through the delivery of over 1,600 courses in all 50 states and internationally, and across virtual platforms. Our Firefighting, Special Operations, and Leadership and Command programs sit at the forefront of national training standards. To consistently offer the highest quality and portable training and education, IFSI maintains accreditation with the National Board of Fire Service Professional Qualifications (Pro Board) and the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC).
IFSI is a leader in life safety research. Using no tax dollars, the non-profit institute is funded by grants. IFSI supplies product testing and product feedback, especially on material that elevates the educational curriculum. IFSI students receive all the latest tools, equipment, and technology for firefighting to technical rescue.
