Student Force

The Student Force is one of the three forces that comprise the Amherst Fire Department. Besides the Student Force there is the Career Force of full-time firefighters and the Call Force of part-time firefighters.

Together these three groups of the Amherst Fire Department handle approximately 5,000 fire and EMS calls annually. The department operates out of two stations, and provides Fire and EMS coverage to the town of Amherst, as well as the University of Massachusetts, Amherst College, and Hampshire College. The Amherst Fire Department also provides ambulance service to three of our neighboring towns.

The Student Force operates its own engine company and has its own vehicle operators and officers. We respond to all structure fires in town, as well as many other fires, alarms, and other emergencies. During the school year we staff our engine every weekday night and 24-hours a day on weekends.

Engine Company 3, also known as the Student Force or Auxiliary Force, began in 1953 to supplement the town's fulltime fire department. Students from the University of Massachusetts comprised the force, and put an extra engine in service every night. Since then, membership has been extended to Amherst & Hampshire College students, and the function of the Student Force has expanded.

The Student Force represents an independent engine company with its own officers, vehicle operators, and fire engine.

Today, the Student Force averages 30 members including a number of female firefighters. Six of the firefighters reside at the North Fire Station during the school year.

Our FALL 2023 recruitment drive is under way.  You can submit an online application now thru September, and we will contact you in late September for an interview.  Click on the "Join the Student Force" tab for more information.  You can also submit an application now by using the link below.  Look for us at on-campus events this fall like the "U-Fest" welcome back gathering when the semester begins.

Click here for an application.