Dayton, Ohio – Montgomery County and Harrison Township have launched a new paid apprenticeship program aimed at helping young adults enter careers in firefighting and emergency medical services while addressing growing staffing concerns within local public safety departments.
The Firefighter Apprenticeship Program was officially introduced during a launch celebration held Monday at Fire Station 94. Leaders behind the effort say the program was created to prepare a new generation of first responders through a mix of classroom learning, hands-on training, and direct field experience.
The initiative targets young adults between the ages of 18 and 24 and is designed to provide participants with a pathway into the fire service industry while allowing them to earn certifications and gain valuable work experience at the same time.
Officials said apprentices will take part in ride-alongs, station duties, job shadowing opportunities, and supervised field training throughout the program. The goal is to expose participants to the real demands of emergency response work while helping them build confidence and professional skills.
Local leaders noted that fire and EMS departments across the region are facing increasing emergency call volumes while also preparing for the retirement of many experienced firefighters and paramedics. The apprenticeship program is intended to help close that gap by preparing younger workers before staffing shortages become more severe.
“Apprentices will have the chance to learn directly from experienced firefighters and paramedics who can pass along not only skills, but the values that come with serving our community,” said Carolyn Rice, Montgomery County Commission President. “It’s an incredible opportunity for young people to build confidence, gain real-world experience and discover a meaningful career where they can make a difference every day.”
Program Offers Certifications and Paid Training
The apprenticeship can last up to 24 months and includes opportunities for participants to earn multiple industry-recognized certifications. According to officials, apprentices may receive state of Ohio Firefighter I and II certifications along with EMT, CPR, and FEMA/NIMS certifications. Participants may also have the opportunity to continue toward paramedic certification.
Montgomery County’s Workforce Development Youth Career Services will cover tuition costs, textbooks, and other approved training expenses connected to the fire and EMS education program.
Although participants will work closely with firefighters and emergency personnel, officials clarified that apprentices will not serve as commissioned firefighters during the program. Instead, they will work as civilian employees under the Harrison Township Fire Department while completing their training and gaining experience.
Leaders involved in the partnership described the program as an investment not only in young adults, but also in the future of public safety services throughout the community.
“This program is a great example of what can happen when local government, workforce development and public safety come together around a shared goal,” said Shannon Meadows, Harrison Township Administrator. “By partnering together, we’re creating opportunities for young people while also helping build a stronger pipeline of future firefighters and EMS professionals for our community.”
Officials are encouraging interested applicants and community members to learn more about the apprenticeship program through TheJobCenter.org/FireProgram.
