Madison College welding student designs safety solution for local fire department

Madison College Portage welding student Nick Murphy put his skills to work to improve safety and efficiency for a local fire department.

Murphy, a U.S. Army veteran, former emergency room and flight nurse and construction business owner, collaborated with Madison College welding instructor Rich Hemler on a specialized project requested by the Endeavor‑Moundville Fire Department.

The fire department needed a custom hose spool for its new brush truck. The goal was to design a component that would allow firefighters to unspool the hose from the front of the apparatus in a controlled manner, improving safety and protecting equipment.

Murphy designed and fabricated the component in the state-of-the-art Madison College Portage Campus Manufacturing Training Lab, combining real-world problem-solving with hands‑on student learning. Murphy worked closely with Hemler throughout the process, gaining practical experience while contributing to a project that directly benefits the community.

The project, made with donated materials, represents Murphy’s commitment to volunteer service, previous health care experience, and his transition into skilled trades.

“It is important to give back to the communities,” Murphy said. “Since I am only taking a class at a time, my schedule allows me the flexibility to work on this project.”

Hemler said partnerships with community organizations provide Madison College students with authentic learning experiences while meeting real operational needs.

“This collaboration highlights how Madison College programs connect classroom learning with community service, allowing students to apply technical skills in ways that make a tangible impact,” Hemler said.

Through opportunities like this, Madison College continues to support workforce development while strengthening ties with local organizations across the region.