Many students take Dual Credit classes to earn college credit. Tyeler Benson, junior, chose to enroll in the Fire Academy instead so that when he graduates next year he will be able to step right into a job. In his first year in the Fire Academy he is the lieutenant and has learned a lot already.
The Colt: What inspired you to join Fire Academy?
Tyeler Benson: It’s been a lifelong dream and growing up around firefighters has made a big impact.
TC: How much time does it take out of our schedule?
TB: A lot. It’s definitely worth it, though.
TC: If somebody was interested in enrolling in the Fire Academy what would they need to do to get started?
TB: Talk to their counselor, fill out the paperwork, get letters of recommendation, and have good grades.
TC: What are the benefits?
TB: Right out of high school you could get hired at the fire department.
TC: If there was one thing you could change about the program, what would it be?
TB: I wish they were more stricter on their requirements to get accepted.
TC: Is there any more schooling you have to do after you graduate to be a firefighter?
TB: It really depends on what you want to do. You can take the paramedic path or go on a rescue team.
TC: What would you say to someone to convince them to join?
TB: To have a heart for helping people, and a mental predisposition as well.
TC: How long is the program?
TB: You join when you are a junior and it lasts your junior and senior year of high school.
TC: What are the things you do in the program that you will also do as a full time firefighter?
TB: Everything. There is a lot of training practice so you can’t get it wrong.
TC: How is the interviewing process?
TB: To be honest, very intense. Use a lot of “Yes sirs” and “Yes ma’ams”. Manners show a lot.
TC: What do you like most about being a lieutenant?
TB: I like the standards I’m held too.
TC: What is your favorite thing you get to do in class? Why?
TB: Skills, which is takes place on Saturdays, because we’re learning and everything we do is hands on.
