Fire Department

Where are you stationed?
Station 11 on the 'C' Shift

What do you enjoy about being a Madison firefighter/EMT?
I like that every day is different in the fire service and you know you are going to have a chance to serve someone in their time of need on every shift. Being an Army Veteran, I knew that I wanted to find a career that allowed me to continue to serve in my community as I did for my country.

What was your first call after graduating the recruit academy? Did you feel prepared?
My first call was a rollover crash during a snowstorm while on Ladder 2. I felt prepared for the call because I checked and prepared every piece of equipment prior to shift starting. My crew that day was very experienced, so I knew I could rely on the team to get the job done and help me along the way.

What's one of the most memorable experiences you've had since joining the MFD?
The most memorable experience I have had so far was that first night in the station, on the bay floor, after washing the rig. Looking at the City of Madison logo on the door, I couldn’t help but reflect on all the hard work and sacrifice it took to get to this point. I want to carry that feeling forward throughout my career and never take this job for granted.

Medical calls are an important part of the service we provide. What have been the most challenging or rewarding aspects of these calls for you?
As a Firefighter/EMT, I understand that the largest percentage of the calls we run are medical in nature. When people are sick, injured, or in need of companionship, we are the first people they meet on their path into the medical system. This gives us an opportunity to give them outstanding care and social interaction that will set the tone for the rest of their day on what is usually the worst day of their life.

Anything else you'd like to share?
Remember that it is never too late to serve. The MFD’s greatest asset is its diversity in people from all backgrounds in life. Everyone on this job did something else before they got hired, and that experience is priceless.