Firefighter Daniel CongdenSeventeen new firefighters now serve at a fire station near you! Get to know them by subscribing to the MFD Blog.

Where are you stationed?
I'm assigned to Station 1 (W. Dayton Street) on the B Shift.

Why did you want to pursue this career?
I joined a volunteer fire department when I was in high school and was introduced to the fire service at a young age. Through this experience, I came to know what it was like to help people in your community who are in need. I have come to find this sense of community service is true both on and off duty as a firefighter.

Why did you want to work in Madison, for the Madison Fire Department?
During college, I moved to the Madison area and attended a three-year-long internship with the Oregon Area Fire/EMS District. While living near Madison, I came to experience the high quality of service the Madison Fire Department provides along with the care they provide to the residents of Madison. Seeing this organization from the outside has made me always want to become a part of it and share in its core values.

What has been the most rewarding part of your experience so far?
I was most rewarded while standing on stage at graduation with my fellow recruits, looking back at the intense 13-week academy. Every person pushed themselves farther than they thought possible, and I was proud to be a part of Class 6 as we were graduating and preparing to head to the field. Also, working at Station 1 has been a more exciting and rewarding experience than I thought possible. I enjoy interacting with the diverse population downtown. I am truly living out my childhood dream.

Now that you've graduated the Academy, what do you look forward to the most?
I am looking forward to finishing my dive training to become a part of the Lake Rescue Team. Recreational diving has always been a fun hobby, but now that I get to do it professionally is really exciting.

Looking back at the Fire Academy, what was the most challenging element?
The week of smoke divers was by far the most challenging part of the academy. From the moment we walked in the doors to when we got back into our cars to leave, we were tested physically and emotionally. However, this proved to us that we were capable of pushing ourselves beyond what we had originally thought our limits were.

What advice would you give to someone hoping to join the MFD?
I would recommend applicants gain some valuable life experiences. Do community service, join a club, meet and become friends with people who have different backgrounds than you. But just as importantly, live out the core values of the MFD in your personal life by being caring, compassionate, honest, and trustworthy. This will not only prepare you to be a Madison firefighter, but also a well-rounded person.

Anything else you'd like to share?
When I’m not studying for my apprenticeship or running calls, Station 1 has 14 bathrooms to clean!

This content is free for use with credit to the City of Madison - Fire and a link back to the original post.

Category: General, Station 1