Madison College EMS & Fire grant will boost youth firefighter training

The Madison College HPS Fire Program received a Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) grant to expand its NextGen Responders Academy to train youth firefighters.

The $10,070 grant will help purchase firefighter turnout gear in smaller and larger-than-average sizes.  

“We appreciate this grant support and collaboration with DSPS to expand program availability to more students and improve the safety of participants”, says Angela White, Senior Academic Manager for Fire & EMS. 

The NextGen Responders Academy aims to boost recruitment in fire departments by introducing fire service careers to Wisconsin students.  High school seniors and juniors are eligible to apply.  

The program enrolls up to 24 students in the spring and fall academic year classes. Successful graduates are certified as Firefighter I’s with hazardous materials operations and emergency medical responders.  

NextGen Academy graduates can further their careers by participating in a local internship, early employment, or enrolling in Madison College Fire and EMS associate degree programs.

 For more information, visit Madison College’s NextGen Responders Academy webpage.