Establish a CPAT Test Center at Western

The candidate physical aptitude test (CPAT) is used by fire departments across the United States to assess the physical capabilities of perspective job applicants. The test requirements, conditions, and utilized equipment are very specific and tightly controlled. The test is valued and utilized because it utilizes specific job function movements. As a result, it has been court validated as both fair and reliable.

Job candidates report to CPAT exam centers to challenge the test in order to acquire a CPAT card which certifies their successful completion of the test. The acquisition of a CPAT card is a necessity for employment with fire departments around the country.

Unfortunately, there are no CPAT test centers in West Central Illinois. This makes it difficult for students in the fire studies program at WIU to obtain a CPAT certification. Further, the absence of a test center in our region also places a burden on fire departments in the Western half of Illinois as well as those in Eastern Iowa and Missouri.

This fundraiser is in support of acquiring the necessary equipment to establishing a CPAT test center to the Western Illinois University campus. It will be a tremendous benefit to our students, and to emergency service providers throughout the region.

We will greatly appreciate your support.