Seats are filling fast for Grand Rapids' first training program to prepare would-be firefighters for the state exam. The program allows students to receive training without leaving the region.
According to excerpts from the story:
Max Doering has always wanted to be a firefighter. Now he's glad he will be able to get the training he needs without having to travel out of the area. This fall, Doering will learn how to use ladders and practice putting on breathing equipment and handling hoses as part of the Grand Rapids Fire Department's first student Fire Academy. The new program -- which prepares would-be firefighters for the rigors of the state exam -- comes after the Michigan Firefighters Training Council approved the city department as a regional training center.
Until now, only volunteer firefighters or those employed by the department could be trained on site. Others had to travel to Kalamazoo, Lansing or other locales for training. As of early this week, 16 of 20 spots in the class were reserved. "They really have a good program," said Doering, 23, of Cascade Township, who recently attended the department's open house. He had been accepted to the Lansing Community College program, but found the Grand Rapids academy was a better deal.
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