UPCOMING COURSES
01-08-2027 8:00 am - 01-10-2027 6:00 pm
S-112 Courses
Pleasant Valley Grange -Placerville Ca.
Price: Free
L-280
Followership to Leadership
Build the self-awareness, communication, teamwork, and decision-making skills needed to transition from an effective team member to an emerging leader in wildland fire and prescribed fire operations.
Course Information
Leadership begins with effective followership and personal accountability.
NWCG L-280, Followership to Leadership, introduces emerging leaders to the behaviors, responsibilities, and interpersonal skills that help teams operate effectively in dynamic and high-risk environments.
Students examine the transition from team member to leader through guided discussion, self-reflection, group problem-solving, and experiential leadership exercises. Emphasis is placed on building trust, communicating clearly, understanding team dynamics, and accepting responsibility for decisions and actions.
The course supports leadership development for wildland firefighters, prescribed fire practitioners, and other field personnel. It is not a substitute for position-specific training, task book evaluation, or agency qualification.
Delivery note: The two-day itinerary below is a proposed expanded schedule. The instructor will align the actual course with the current approved NWCG L-280 course materials, required exercises, and contact hours.
Course Topics
- Leadership values and principles
- Effective followership
- Self-awareness and personal responsibility
- Transitioning into leadership roles
- Trust and credibility
- Team dynamics and collaboration
- Communication and active listening
- Decision-making and accountability
- Human factors and stress
- Constructive feedback and conflict management
- Experiential leadership exercises
- Reflection and personal development
Prerequisites & Preparation
Arrive ready to participate, reflect, and work with others.
Two-Day Course Itinerary
Proposed instructional schedule featuring discussion and experiential learning.
Day 1 — Followership & Self-Awareness
Values • Communication • Teamwork • TrustDay 2 — Leadership in Action
Decisions • Team Dynamics • Exercises • ReflectionRequired Materials & Equipment
Prepare for classroom activities and any planned outdoor team exercises.
Learning Materials
- Notebook and pen
- Assigned course materials
- Pre-course assignments
- Device if requested by host
Outdoor Exercises (If Scheduled)
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Sturdy closed-toe footwear
- Water and sun protection
- Additional PPE if specified
Personal Items
- Lunch and snacks
- Reusable water bottle
- Personal medications
- Willingness to participate and reflect
Experiential Learning & Safety
Practice leadership behaviors in a supportive, instructor-led environment.
Leadership exercises are designed to encourage collaboration, communication, sound judgment, and thoughtful reflection. Students should follow instructor directions, respect other participants, and raise safety concerns promptly.
Instructors may modify or stop outdoor or physical activities because of weather, site conditions, accessibility needs, or other safety considerations.
Who Should Attend?
For personnel ready to strengthen their contributions as teammates and leaders.
