FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 15, 2017
Contact:Triana Ernde
(850) 435-1621
Pensacola Fire Cadets commence training program
The much anticipated Pensacola Fire Cadet program started this past Saturday.
Six individuals were hired as fire cadets of the city and are being provided with the training required to obtain professional firefighter certifications through the State of Florida which will allow the cadets to become eligible for employment as professional firefighters with the city.
This program is designed to encourage diversity while providing an emergency services career path for individuals seeking employment with the Pensacola Fire Department as firefighters. The opportunity being provided to the cadets eliminates what some may perceive as a financial hurdle of having to pay out of pocket to attend a fire academy to secure the training required to be eligible for consideration of employment as a professional firefighter. In lieu of paying the tuition to attend the Fire Academy, the cadets agreed to serve the Pensacola Fire Department for a minimum of 24 months after they have completed the Fire Academy if the city chooses to offer a promotional opportunity to professional firefighter.
“This is a win-win for our community,” said Pensacola Mayor Ashton Hayward. “I am extremely excited at how this program can boost diversity within our Fire Department,” said Hayward. “We have so much home grown talent here in Pensacola.”
The cadets are receiving a full time hourly rate of $8.68/hr with insurance and benefits and will work full-time with the Pensacola Fire Department over the next several months splitting their time between the Fire Academy and working in the fire stations. The program is expected to end in July.
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