Monroe County now covering firefighter training costs to recruit more talent

Aspiring firefighters typically spend anywhere between $4,000 and $6,000 on training courses, a barrier new Monroe County recruits won't have to face. 

FORSYTH, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) — Monroe County is addressing its firefighter shortage by covering the cost of training for the first time.

“We’re providing all of this training and paying them while they are receiving this training, as well as getting their EMT before they become a line fireman,” said Captain Christina Bramlett, Life Safety Educator for Monroe County Emergency Management Services.

Captain Bramlett says firefighter shortages are impacting departments all across the country. Up until now, Monroe County firefighters have had to come in already trained. Now, the county is going a step further to recruit more talent.

There are 10 recruits currently taking advantage of this new opportunity, one of whom is Zach True. He says knowing his uncle has saved lives as a fireman inspired him to do the same.

“It’s a humbling experience to be able to put myself and my skills to use to help somebody out in dire need,” True said.

Monroe County resident Robert Ravenell, says he has wanted to make an impact in the community ever since moving to the area three years ago. According to Ravenell, saving money and getting paid to undergo fire training was an opportunity he couldn’t pass up.

“We have great instructors,” Ravenell said. “They break everything down in order for us to understand that this is a dangerous job, but with this job comes structure, and with the structure that they give us, it’s outstanding. Great experience. “

Aspiring firefighters typically spend between $4,000 and $6,000 on training courses. It’s a barrier new Monroe County recruits won’t have to face.

Captain Bramlett says this will not only help with the firefighter shortage, but give Monroe County more first responders.

“You can never have too many,” Bramlett said. “Monroe County is growing. We’re a very large county as far as our square mileage footprint.”

She says population growth has led to more calls for the department.

“We need more firemen, EMTs, first responders, and paramedics so that as our communities continue to grow, we have the manpower to be able to respond to their emergency,” Bramlett said. 

Next week, Monroe County EMS will begin volunteer firefighter training courses. If you wish to apply, click here.