History 
     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 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 36 members including a number of female firefighters. Eight of the firefighters reside at the North Fire Station during the school year.

Career Opportunities 
      Many former Student Force members have found fulfilling careers in firefighting. Of the career members of the Amherst Fire Department, ten are former Student Force.

Student Firefighter Responsibilities 
      Every night, from 6pm. until 7am., the Student Force puts an engine into service. Each member works an average of one shift a week throughout fall and spring semesters.  Each member is assigned a pager to be alerted of working fires and station coverages. Most students will leave class to perform these roles during the daytime hours, but this is not required.
      Weekly drills occur on Thursdays from 6 - 9 p.m. Firefighters are expected to obtain their pump operator certification within one year of joining, and are also strongly encouraged to obtain their Massachusetts EMT certification, as the Amherst Fire Department runs five ambulances.

Qualifications
      In order to qualify for membership on the Student Force, students must maintain a minimum 2.5 grade point average. Candidates should be physically fit, non-smokers, and have at least 2 years of school remaining. Prior firefighting experience is helpful but not required.
      Applicants may submit applications online for consideration. After all applicants have been reviewed, individuals will be contacted for interviews, after which new probational members will be selected.

Training 
      The annual "Wonder Week" of training takes place during the last week of August, and covers everything from basic firefighting techniques to search and rescue tactics. The week culminates with a visit to the Springfield Fire Academy burn house, where students put their skills to work in actual fires.

Life at North Station
       Up to eight students may live at the North Station rent-free during the school year. Residency depends upon seniority and availability of space. Students living in the station are mostly Student Force officers due to the greater responsibilities of operations needed to be dealt with during all hours of the day. Students maintain their living quarters and perform housekeeping duties on a regular basis. While only a limited number of students live at the station, all members are free to use the facilities available to them in the student living quarters.