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Tangipahoa program gives high school seniors free nationally recognized firefighter certifications
Summary
A new program run by local fire departments enables high school seniors to earn IFSAC and Pro Board-certified Fire 1 and Fire 2 plus hazmat awareness/operations credentials at no cost to students; presenters said certifications are nationally recognized and can help graduates secure paid firefighter jobs.
Chief Joiner of the Ponchatoula Fire Department and training chief Joshua White told the council that a pilot firefighter-training program for high-school seniors has graduated students who received nationally recognized certifications and in at least one case secured a full-time hire.
Joshua White said students who complete the yearlong program receive hazmat awareness and operations certifications plus Fire 1 and Fire 2 credentials. He said the credentials are IFSAC- and Pro Board-accredited, do not expire, and allow students to pursue firefighting careers across the United States. The pilot year enrolled four students; this year's class was described as six students drawn from multiple parishes/schools. Presenters said the program costs the student nothing, and they contrasted that with separate training routes such as LSU firefighter school, which White estimated would cost about $5,000 if pursued independently.
Councilmembers and staff discussed logistics such as transportation and enrollment deadlines; presenters said Aug. 29 was the last day to sign up for the current intake. The council recognized the program as a pathway to careers with benefits and retirement for students who choose to join local departments.
