Firefighter Devin Rogers Recruit Class 8 is now serving at a fire station near you! Get to know Madison's newest firefighters.

Where are you stationed?
I’m at Station 8 (Lien Road), HURT/Beast Of the East, on the ‘B’ shift.

Why did you want to pursue this career?
I was unsure of what I wanted to do after graduating UW-Milwaukee. I was told by a family friend that I should give a fire/EMS internship a try. I knew that some of my favorite jobs that I have worked involved working with my hands and some sort of physical aspect. After getting into my internship I loved the job and knew that this is something I could see myself doing and enjoying for many years.

Why did you want to work in Madison, for the Madison Fire Department?

I have lived most of my live in, or just around, the Madison area. It is a place that I have never really wanted to move away from. This city has made me who I am today and it would be great to give back and be there for the members of this community.

Madison was the first fire department that I applied to after my internship in Monona. I applied five times and was finally given the opportunity to go through the academy. I have wanted to work for the Madison Fire Department because it not only has the reputation but truly is one of the best fire departments in the nation. It is a diverse group of individuals that come from many different backgrounds and previous jobs. It is great knowing that there are many different views brought into the same job to accomplish the same goals.

What has been the most rewarding part of your experience so far?
The most rewarding part of my experience so far has been knowing that we can be there for community members on their worst days. Some people have no one else to call on, and we can be there to make their day a little better or help them out in any way we can. Also, we are given the opportunity to even give some individuals a second chance at life.

Since graduating the Academy, what are among the most memorable experiences you've had?
One of the most memorable experiences I have had is going on the most serious calls, and seeing how everyone in the house has your back, whether I am new or not.

Another memorable experience has been getting to know coworkers, as well as fellow academy members, outside of work. It allows you to get to know who your coworkers really are, and it helps build a better working relationship as well.

What advice would you give to someone hoping to join the MFD?
The biggest piece of advice I can give someone hoping to join would be to put others before yourself, work harder than you ever have, and as Chief Davis always says, be nice. Those are three things that you can do to gain respect, get along with others on the department as well as those you serve, and also it is your duty as a Madison firefighter and human being.

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Category: Station 8, General