Home of the Security & Emergency Response Training Center (SERTC).

Serving Communities & First Responders

Our world-renowned program offers extensive, immersive, realistic training that includes full-scale scenarios to help first responders be better prepared for surface transportation emergencies. We train first responders to do things right when things go wrong.

The Security and Emergency Response Training Center (SERTC) at MxV Rail is a globally recognized program that brings transportation experts and first responders together in a one-of-a-kind training experience. SERTC is a member of the National Domestic Preparedness Consortium (NDPC). As a world leader in hazardous materials response to all forms of surface transportation incidents, SERTC courses offer hands-on learning in a real-world environment.

Training in numbers

  • 74k+

    professionals trained
  • 10k+

    scholarships awarded to first responders
  • 35

    years of curriculum

Register now

Book a course and join more than 74,000 men & women from diverse public and private sectors throughout the world who have trained at SERTC since it opened in 1985. What are you waiting for?

Residential Courses

SERTC is a world leader and the preferred destination for full-scale training in surface transportation hazardous materials response. Residential courses range from 24 to 80 hours on-site in Pueblo, CO. Our seasoned instructors draw upon their years of experience in fire and law enforcement, EMS, railroads and industry – training today for a safe tomorrow.

The SERTC Academy offers a convenient alternative that allows trainees to complete the classroom-based portions of the residential courses online, according to their availability. Online courses are held live with Team SERTC instructors and each session is recorded so trainees can revisit specific topics again, or catch up to the live session later. Following the coursework, students are prepared for the hands-on portion of training held onsite in Pueblo, CO at SERTC’s training facility.

Several courses are available for remote delivery at a client’s location and facility, and most of these are DHS/FEMA grant funded. Depending on the course to be delivered, SERTC’s portable props can be brought on-site for hands-on training along with any curriculum materials needed to enhance the course for the students. Team SERTC instructors at remote courses are the same seasoned instructors that lead the hands-on, immersive training programs in residential courses at SERTC.

Frequently Asked Questions / SERTC

YES! There is an option for every class called Open Enrolment or “OE,” that allows a self-pay option.

First, be sure that you have a confirmed seat in the desired course, because classes can fill quickly. Once confirmed, and you are ready to make travel arrangements, check SERTC.org for “Travel and Lodging Information.” Reach out to us directly, if Team SERTC can help with making your travel arrangements.

Weather is very dynamic here in the high plains desert region of southern Colorado. Summer days are typically hot, with nights that are relatively cool. Winter days are relatively mild, and nights tend to be cold. Storms can occur in any season. SERTC recommends that you expect good weather, but come prepared for seasonal extremes. We typically dress in layers, because extreme temperature shifts are common, especially in winter months.

Learn more about continuing education unit credits (CEU) at SERTC.org under “Course Requirements and CEUs.”

Reserve your spot at SERTC.org. If you’d prefer to speak to someone directly, reach out to us at 719-584-0584 or sertc@aar.com. We’re happy to help!

Check details on SERTC.org under “Course and Shuttle Schedules.”

What to pack, and everything students need to bring, can be found at SERTC.org under “On-Site Rules and Guidelines.”

“I was lucky to have been in the HazMat Tech class in Pueblo, Colorado. Shortly after returning from Pueblo, I instructed over 50 responders at my fire department. I wouldn’t have been able to complete this training without getting the hands-on training from SERTC.”

Matthew MContractor