Firefighter Brandon Douglas Eighteen new firefighters now serve at a fire station near you! Check back daily and get to know them.

Where are you stationed?
I'm at Station 6 (W. Badger Rd.) on the C shift.

Why did you want to pursue this career?
The fire service has been in my family my whole life. My uncle got me interested at a young age. He's been on the job for 32 years and was my former Chief. Being able to give back to a community and dedicate my career to helping others is why I couldn’t imagine myself doing anything else. Also, the tradition of the fire service is another thing that has always attracted me. The pride and honor of being a firefighter is like none other. Plus the big red trucks are pretty awesome!

Why did you want to work for the Madison Fire Department?
This is the only department I’ve ever wanted to work for. I didn't grow up here but spent a lot of my spare time in the area. Madison has so much to offer-- such a diverse culture and history, a very vibrant and outgoing population, beautiful downtown and lake life. It just felt like the right fit for me. Having a lot of friends at different departments around the state, they always said MFD was one of the best. I was not going to give up trying to get this job and am so happy to be here.

What has been the most rewarding part of your experience so far?
Meeting my fellow recruits in Class 5. I’ve never been surrounded by such great people with such a great work ethic. It was such an honor to be in the academy with them. I’m looking forward to working with them throughout my whole career. We are truly a family and I would do anything for any of them. Also my crew at Station 6 has been nothing but the best.

Looking back at the Fire Academy, what was the most challenging element?
The academy was by far the best experience I’ve ever had and would do it all over again in a second. Meeting the expectations of the officers on a daily basis was very challenging. They wanted you to be better than the day before and would not accept any excuses. They would challenge you mentally and physically while expecting nothing but perfection. Every day was a challenge, which is why I enjoyed it so much.

What advice would you give to someone hoping to join the MFD?
This question means a lot to me. NEVER GIVE UP! Madison was the only department I wanted to work for. I applied four times and got the job. It is a very competitive career field and is by far the best job in the world in my opinion. When I first applied I had very little if no fire experience. I spent 10 years in the volunteer fire service and learned a lot. Get on a volunteer department. Go to training schools or seminars. You’d be surprised the people you will meet and the advice you will receive. If you have the time get your EMT license or go to school to be a paramedic. Get online and research the fire service. Practice your interview skills over and over. Keep on applying and Never Give Up! If you have a dream chase it and better yourself every day.

 

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Category: General, Station 6