FEL101 - Budgeting and Financial Management for Fire and EMS

Course Overview

Budgeting and Financial Management for Fire and EMS

Financial Leadership Skills for Fire and EMS Administrators

Budgeting and Financial Management for Fire and EMS provides a broad foundation in financial and budget-related responsibilities within Fire and EMS organizations. Participants gain an understanding of the key elements involved in planning, managing, and communicating financial information at the agency level.

The course focuses on building confidence with core financial concepts and applying them to real-world administrative decisions. Fire and EMS leaders learn how to read, interpret, and discuss financial information in ways that support both day-to-day operations and long-term planning.

Course Curriculum

Financial Concepts for Fire and EMS Leaders

This course introduces the financial concepts and administrative responsibilities that leaders commonly encounter within Fire and EMS organizations. Participants gain a practical understanding of how financial data informs strategic and operational decisions.

Planning and Budgeting for Agency Needs

The curriculum covers the foundations of planning for agency needs, including how to align budgets with staffing, equipment, training, and operational priorities. Participants learn how internal and external factors influence budgeting decisions and how to communicate those needs effectively.

Using Financial Information to Support Leadership Decisions

Leaders practice working with basic financial information, understanding revenue and expenditure categories, and recognizing the components that influence budget requests, adjustments, and approvals. By the end of the course, participants are more confident navigating financial discussions and using financial principles to support effective and informed leadership.

Who Should Attend

Ideal Participants

This course is designed for Fire and EMS professionals who contribute to or oversee administrative functions, operational planning, or resource management. It is especially valuable for those moving into supervisory or administrative roles who must participate in or lead financial discussions.

Ideal participants include:

• Current and aspiring company officers and shift officers
• Battalion chiefs, division leaders, and EMS supervisors
• Program managers and administrative personnel
• Fire and EMS staff involved in funding, purchasing, or resource allocation
• Personnel engaged in long-term planning or capital project discussions
• Municipal staff who interact with Fire and EMS budgets

Whether you are new to budgeting conversations or looking to strengthen your financial management skills, this course helps you build the confidence and knowledge needed to support your agency’s financial decisions.

Applies To The Following Certificate

• Fire and EMS Administrative Leadership Certificate : Required