Firefighter Michael SamoskySeventeen 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 am currently assigned to Station 6 (W. Badger Road) on the B shift.

Why did you want to pursue this career?
My interest in the fire service started while I was in high school, when a Lieutenant from the North Shore Fire Department invited me to do a ride along with his crew. I remember the excitement I felt when the tones would sound and we were off to help someone in need. Watching his crew work seamlessly together on scene and getting to experience some of the camaraderie they shared while in the firehouse was something I knew I wanted to be part of.

Why did you want to work in Madison, for the Madison Fire Department?
As an intern with a local department, I always looked up to the men and women of the Madison Fire Department. I had a few opportunities to interact with members of Station 6 on a few calls, and seeing their professionalism and hard work made a long-lasting impression on me. I have also always wanted to work for a large department that provided services such as Haz-Mat, technical rescue, and water rescue. The possibility of working on one of these teams is something I look forward to in the future.

What has been the most rewarding part of your experience so far?
Working through the challenges of Smoke Divers week with the other recruits of Class 6. We all learned what we thought our limits were and how to push past them, as well as how to overcome mental and physical obstacles as a team.

Looking back at the Fire Academy, what was the most challenging element?
After a very long and physically demanding day, finding the energy to study and to do homework was certainly a challenge. Also, trying to balance work and family was very difficult with the energy and time demands the academy places on you.

What advice would you give to someone hoping to join the MFD?
Join a volunteer or paid on-call department and try to soak up as much experience and training as you can. Doing so will give you a strong base to build upon during the academy and throughout the rest of your career.

 

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Category: General, Station 6