“It’s very technical,” said Justin Cason, one of the program’s graduates said of the 10-week course. “You can’t just get in there and run around. You have to be on your toes and it’s very hot.”
READ MORE:The Dome open house brings in Springfield community
The 10 firefighters who completed the program will begin their first shifts with the fire division this week, Heimlich said. The division also has eight additional openings, but projects to need as many as 10 more firefighters over the next several months.
DETAILS: Honda’s impact goes beyond manufacturing
Heimlich said the program’s graduation day is one of his favorite events.
“It allows us to see the first day of the rest of their careers, and that’s the thing we’re really celebrating with this,” Heimlich said.
MORE:Honda’s impact goes beyond manufacturing
One of the Clark State students who joined in for the training was the first African American female to complete the recruit training academy, Heimlich said.
The fire division has already received 75 applications for its next recruiting class, and is in the process of planning its next recruit training academy, Heimlich said.
About the Author