National Wilderness Leadership Institute - NWLI

04/07/2026

Come out and help support the GFVFD with this blood drive on April 12th.

04/03/2026

NWLI Recognized as an Educational Partner of the Committee for Tactical Emergency Casualty

The National Wilderness Leadership Institute is proud to announce a milestone that strengthens our mission and expands the impact of our training programs. NWLI has officially been recognized as an Educational Partner of the Committee for Tactical Emergency Casualty Care (C‑TECC)—the national body responsible for developing and maintaining the TECC guidelines used by responders across the country.

This partnership reflects more than an endorsement. It affirms NWLI’s commitment to delivering high‑quality, scenario‑based medical education that prepares responders to act decisively in the most challenging environments—whether that’s a remote wilderness trail, a disaster‑affected community, or a high‑risk operational setting.
Why This Partnership Matters
C‑TECC’s evidence‑based guidelines have become the standard for civilian high‑threat medicine. By aligning our curriculum with these principles, NWLI ensures that every student—whether a wilderness responder, SAR volunteer, EMS provider, or industrial safety leader—receives training grounded in the most current, nationally recognized best practices.

As an Educational Partner, NWLI is now part of a network of organizations dedicated to advancing TECC education, improving community resilience, and strengthening the bridge between wilderness medicine and tactical emergency care.
What This Means for NWLI Students
Participants in NWLI programs will benefit from:
• Enhanced TECC‑aligned curriculum woven into wilderness and remote‑care scenarios
• Training that reflects the latest C‑TECC guidelines, reviewed and updated as standards evolve
• Greater recognition of NWLI coursework within professional and operational communities
• Expanded pathways for responders seeking to integrate wilderness, disaster, and tactical medical competencies
This partnership elevates the value of every NWLI certification and reinforces our commitment to preparing responders for the realities of delayed‑evacuation, resource‑limited, and high‑threat environments.
Strengthening the Future of Wilderness and Tactical Medicine
NWLI’s mission has always been clear: to build confident, capable responders through hands‑on, scenario‑driven education. Becoming a recognized Educational Partner of C‑TECC strengthens that mission and positions NWLI at the forefront of integrated wilderness and tactical emergency care training.

We’re excited for what this partnership will bring—for our students, our instructors, and the communities we serve.

The work continues. The standard rises. And together, we’re building a stronger, more resilient responder community.

03/29/2026

03/06/2026

Raul was a great fire fighter and provider and will be greatly missed our thought and prayers are with the FCFD and his family.

With deep sadness, the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department announces the line-of-duty-death of Master Technician Raul Perla on Thursday, March 5, 2026, from occupational cancer.

Master Technician Perla was hired as a firefighter in 1996 and served with the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department for nearly 28 years. He joined the department as a member of Recruit Class 91. He was a long-time and dedicated member of the department’s urban search and rescue (US&R) and technical rescue operation teams, deploying to 12 domestic and international disasters. Master Technician Perla was known internationally for his work as a US&R instructor, member of the United Nations Disaster Assessment and Coordination (UNDAC) team, and led countless simulated disaster exercises worldwide. He retired from Fairfax County Fire and Rescue in December 2023.

In addition to his career as a firefighter, Master Technician Perla served in the United States Navy, beginning in 1986. Over the course of his distinguished military career, he rose to the rank of Senior Chief Petty Officer while serving with the United States Navy Seabees. During his military service, he completed two combat tours in the Middle East before retiring from the Navy in 2012.

Master Technician Perla was an exceptional leader, mentor, and friend. His selfless service to his department and community will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact. He was known for his life motto, “Others Before Self”. He will be greatly missed.

The men and women of Fairfax County Fire and Rescue extend our deepest condolences to Master Technician Perla’s wife Jill, and daughters Summer and Sage, as well as extended family, friends, and anyone whose life he touched.

02/26/2026

Adventure awaits! Equip yourself with vital Wilderness First Aid skills for safer outdoor experiences. Register now and lead with confidence!

02/25/2026

Empower yourself in the wild! Our hands-on Wilderness First Aid course prepares you for the unexpected. Sign up today and get ready!

02/20/2026

Voting opens tomorrow!!! You can vote once a day until the polls close. Vote Lovettsville the best firehouse in Loudoun!

https://www.loudountimes.com/special/best_of_loudoun/voting/ #/group/2262/nom/39759/202705s

02/19/2026

Take charge in emergencies! Our Wilderness First Aid course equips you with essential skills for safe adventures. Don’t wait, register now!

02/17/2026

Ready to boost your outdoor confidence? Sign up for our Wilderness First Aid course today and be prepared for any adventure. Register now!

02/16/2026

NWLI is seeking an experienced Operational Medical Director to provide medical leadership, ensure clinical quality, and support efficient healthcare operations. This is a great opportunity for a physician leader looking to make a meaningful impact.

MD or DO
Leadership & clinical experience preferred

Interested? Send your CV to operations@nwli.org or message us for more details.