Registration is now open for career change sessions, with additional programs for young women and individuals of all genders to follow
Blaze Fire Academy, a collaboration between the fire departments of Oakville, Burlington, Milton, and Halton Hills, announces three immersive career information sessions for 2023. These sessions aim to encourage adults and youth from diverse backgrounds to join the fire service, offering a comprehensive understanding of various roles, including firefighting, fire prevention, public education, training, dispatch communications, and administration.
The first session, tailored for individuals aged 21 or older with a non-fire service background seeking a career change, offers 24 spots and will be held virtually on June 6 and 13, followed by in-person training on June 17. The academy welcomes diversity in skill sets as the fire services offer a variety of roles beyond firefighting. Online applications are open now and will be accepted until May 21.
In August, a special training session for young women aged 15 to 18 will be held, providing 24 spots for immersive activities and an information session with post-secondary educational organizations offering courses in fire services. Lastly, a November session for up to 24 participants aged 15 or older of all genders, with or without prior experience in fire services, will open for applications in October.
All in-person training will take place at the Oakville Training Campus for Emergency Excellence, located at 1144 South Service Road West, Oakville. Training topics will include hazardous material response, search and rescue operations, auto extrication rescues, rope rescue, forcible entry procedures, water rescue, fire investigation, communications, public education, and fire prevention.
Oakville Mayor Rob Burton spoke about Blaze Fire Academy new training, stating, "This year, the expanded range of training programs encourages people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds to experience this important career firsthand in an immersive training format.”
Fire Chief Paul Boissonneault emphasized the importance of building inclusive and diverse teams, adding, “Together with our partners in Halton Region's fire departments, we welcome individuals from all walks of life to explore a meaningful and impactful career through Blaze Fire Academy. Whether you’re looking to kickstart a new career or seeking a fulfilling profession, Blaze Fire Academy offers opportunities that exemplify a vision of fire services for all.”
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