The New Year is bringing some new faces to the Jacksonville Fire Department. This January marks the start of Jacksonville Fire Department’s student internship program, made possible by a Federal Grant awarded in 2019.
The internship program is a great opportunity for students seeking careers in firefighting and emergency medical services. Several student firefighters will intern within our department. Each will be assigned shifts within the department as additional personnel alongside our typical two-man crews.
During their time with us, the students will not only help our department, but gain hands-on job experience while attending the Fire Science classes at Rogue Community College. In return for their assistance, grant funding will cover each student’s tuition.
The program will provide a safe learning environment where students gain real experience, valuable job skills and deal with the mental and physical challenges posed by firefighting. Importantly, it helps the Fire Department provide an even higher standard of service to the community and should be a win-win for students and Jacksonville residents.
So, if you see somebody new around station or out training with our crews, be sure and welcome them aboard.