FPAAC’s first Technician Level Training of 2026 was held on March 19, 2026 at Vigor, Portland aboard the PACIFIC COLLECTOR.
This training was the first of four quarterly Technician Level Trainings that will take place in 2026 and brought together 37 participants representing five FPAAC member agencies. The day commenced with a safety briefing and an overview of the planned activities delivered by Portland Fire Battalion Chief Jamie Klum.
The training was developed and led by Portland Fire, Station 2, with Station 24 personnel facilitating each training station throughout the day and providing hands-on instruction and oversight as groups rotated through the various stations.
The shipboard training activities developed by Portland Fire were designed to reflect the operational challenges of working in a maritime environment. Crews practiced coordinating command, recon, navigating the vessel using fire control plans, and communicating critical information between teams operating in different areas of the ship.
Hands‑on firefighting operations aboard a vessel require a focus on hose movement and coordination in tight spaces, in this simulation crews had to adapt to confined layouts and shipboard obstacles.
Additional evolutions placed teams in low‑visibility conditions below deck, where they conducted systematic searches and worked together to locate and assist a simulated incapacitated crew member.
These activities emphasized teamwork, communication, and maintaining orientation in complex environments.
The day also included a classroom session covering vessel terminology, reinforcing a shared understanding of maritime language and concepts that support safer and more effective operations on board ships.
Participant feedback highlighted the value of hands‑on, vessel‑based training and the opportunity to work alongside personnel from other agencies in a realistic setting. The training was well received and underscored the importance of continued multi‑agency collaboration in maritime response operations.
FPAAC thanks Portland Fire – Station 24, the PACIFIC COLLECTOR crew, Vigor and all participating agencies for their support in making this training a success.
Anyone interested in learning about the FPAAC training program or future training opportunities is encouraged to contact Anthony O’Reilly, oreilly@pdxmex.com