High school students from across Kansas and several other states recently had the opportunity to immerse themselves in real-life fire scenarios and rescue operations at the "Fire Science Field Day" hosted by Hutchinson Community College. This annual event provides a unique platform for aspiring firefighters to gain practical experience and explore the dynamic world of fire service.

Unlocking the Doors to a Rewarding Career in Fire Protection

Discovering a Passion for Firefighting

Jemma Jones, a senior at Maize High School, initially had her sights set on becoming a veterinarian. However, her perspective shifted during the summer, as she discovered a growing interest in the firefighting profession. "I looked into it and was like, 'This is a great way to help the community, help the people around me, and just stay active all the time,'" Jones shared, reflecting on her newfound passion.When the opportunity to attend the Fire Science Field Day arose, Jones seized the chance to gain hands-on experience. "I thought this would be a great opportunity to see everything that's going on, talk to a ton of people around here, get to be in gear and see things you get to do in the day-to-day life," she explained, eager to immerse herself in the world of firefighting.

Preparing the Next Generation of Firefighters

The Fire Science Field Day is more than just a training exercise; it's a strategic initiative to recruit and nurture the next generation of firefighters. Mike McCandless, the Fire Science Coordinator at Hutchinson Community College, emphasized the importance of this event in shaping the future of the fire service."We're training the next generation of firefighters. So, I was in fire service for over 22 years, so I'm trying to pass that along," McCandless said. The hands-on experience and exposure to the various aspects of firefighting help students like Jones determine if the career path is truly a fit for them."Some find out that they don't like it but the others they're like, 'Alright, we're ready to go,'" McCandless added, highlighting the value of the program in identifying and cultivating the next wave of fire service professionals.

Gaining Practical Experience in Fire Scenarios

The Fire Science Field Day offered a comprehensive training experience for the participating high school students. The program included a range of activities, from 60-second drills to testing emergency medical skills and simulating a typical fire call response.These hands-on exercises provided the students with a glimpse into the day-to-day responsibilities and challenges faced by firefighters. By immersing themselves in these realistic scenarios, the aspiring firefighters gained a deeper understanding of the skills, decision-making, and teamwork required to effectively respond to emergencies.

Aspiring to Serve the Wichita Community

For Jemma Jones, the Fire Science Field Day was a stepping stone towards her ultimate goal of joining the Wichita Fire Department. With a newfound passion for firefighting, she is determined to continue her journey and make a positive impact on her local community."My goal is to someday work for the Wichita Fire Department," Jones stated, her eyes shining with determination. The experience she gained at the event has only strengthened her resolve to pursue a career in fire service, where she can put her skills and dedication to work in service of others.The Fire Science Field Day at Hutchinson Community College has become a valuable platform for high school students to explore the fire service profession and take the first steps towards a rewarding career in fire protection. By providing this immersive training experience, the college is nurturing the next generation of firefighters, empowering them to make a difference in their communities.