Illinois Fire Service Institute (IFSI)
Guest Reviews
The Illinois Fire Service Institute (IFSI) is highly praised for its exceptional training programs and experienced staff who are willing to share their knowledge. Reviewers highlight the diverse range of specialized classes offered, including live fire burns for realistic training experiences. The facility is commended for its adaptability and helpful staff.
Contact & Hours
About Illinois Fire Service Institute (IFSI)
The Illinois Fire Service Institute (IFSI) is the statutory State Fire Academy for Illinois, providing accredited, hands-on training, education, and research for first responders. Founded in 1925, it is the oldest continuous fire training institution in the United States. IFSI reaches approximately 60,000 students annually through over 1,600 courses. The institute combines a 28-acre live-fire training campus in Champaign with a mobile training fleet that delivers courses to fire departments statewide. IFSI's core curricula in Firefighting, Special Operations, and Leadership are accredited by the National Board of Fire Service Professional Qualifications (Pro Board) and the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC). The institute offers specialized programs in areas such as Hazardous Materials, Technical Rescue, Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), and Leadership Development. IFSI also integrates practical, life-safety research, focusing on studies that directly impact the health, safety, and effectiveness of first responders. With world-class instructors, IFSI delivers over 14,000 class hours to students online, on campus, and at regional training centers. The Champaign campus features state-of-the-art live-fire and technical rescue training props for immersive, hands-on learning. IFSI maintains an active fleet of mobile training resources, with nearly 65% of its instruction conducted at local fire stations across Illinois. IFSI is funded by grants and supplies product testing and feedback to elevate its educational curriculum.