Grosse Ile students describe hands-on experience in fire department work-based learning program

Three students from Grosse Ile High School told the Grosse Ile Township Fire Commission they had gained hands-on firefighting and emergency medical training through the school’s work-based learning program.

"We've had the privilege of participating in the Grosse Ile High School firefighting work based learning program over the past half a year," said Nolan Baron, one of the students who addressed the commission. "From day 1, we were welcomed into the firehouse and treated like part of the team." The students — Nolan Baron, Isaac Miles and Joe Keenan — described training that included water rescues using Mustang survival suits, vehicle extrication with hydraulic rescue tools, hose and hydrant operations, ladder work and routine equipment maintenance.

The presentation, given after the commission approved minutes and other routine business, emphasized practical training and the program’s potential as a recruitment pipeline. The students said the program covered basic first aid and scene safety, daily station routines and training drills. "These suits are essential for maintaining operational effectiveness in challenging aquatic environments," one student said when describing water-rescue training.

Chief Roscoe, who introduced the students and oversees the department’s work-based learning placements, said this is the program’s second year and noted last year’s four participants included one who went on to be a cadet with another department. "We don't always expect that from people," he said, adding that the program aims to encourage participants to pursue firefighting careers or return as local volunteer firefighter-EMTs.

Commissioners asked the students how they learned about the program; the students said they heard positive accounts from the previous year’s participants. The students closed by thanking department staff and others who supported the program, naming Chief Roscoe, "Miss Deshawn" and "Dr. Carter."