Technical Specialists provide subject-matter expertise that supports planning, coordination, and decision-making across Incident Management Team functions during incident operations.
Course overview
The Technical Specialist course prepares personnel to serve effectively as Technical Specialists (THSPs) within an Incident Command System organization. The course focuses on how Technical Specialists support Incident Management Teams, participate in the Operational Planning Cycle, contribute to meetings and briefings, and integrate their expertise into Incident Action Planning. While Technical Specialists may be assigned within any section, the course emphasizes coordination responsibilities typically associated with Planning Section support roles.
Who is this course for?
- Personnel assigned or preparing to serve as Technical Specialists during incident operations.
- Subject-matter experts supporting Incident Management Teams.
- Specialists providing technical input to planning, coordination, or operational decision-making processes within ICS environments.
Course objectives
- Explain the roles and responsibilities of Technical Specialists within Incident Management Teams.
- Describe how Technical Specialists integrate into ICS organizational structures.
- Explain the Technical Specialist’s role within the Operational Planning Cycle (Planning “P”).
- Describe notification and response expectations for Technical Specialist assignments.
- Support meetings and briefings with technical subject-matter expertise.
- Explain coordination responsibilities with Planning Section personnel, including the Situation Unit.
- Describe how Technical Specialists contribute to Incident Action Planning and the Incident Action Plan.
Delivery format
Activities may include instructor-led training supported by facilitated discussion, planning process exercises, coordination scenarios, technical integration activities, and asynchronous learning components.
Duration
2 days (16 hours)
Recommended prerequisite(s)
Successful completion of ICS-300
Comparable courses
none
Next Steps
Request Course Information on our Contact Page