Gadsden Fire Department to implement career-tech program for local students

Gadsden, AL – The City of Gadsden Fire Department is partnering with Gadsden City High School and the Etowah County School System to provide a new Career and Technical Education (CTE) program for seniors, beginning next year with the class of 2024.

The “Emergency and Fire Management Services” program is aimed at students who might be interested in pursuing a career in those fields. It will teach students the value of teamwork and making a positive impact in the community, and it will also prepare them to be career-ready after graduation. Some may even realize this career path is a calling they want to pursue after graduation.” After successful completion of the program, students will receive a volunteer firefighter certification (VF160) through the Alabama Fire College. Then, they are eligible to complete a short 5-week bridge course for professional state certification as a Firefighter I.

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The Cherokee Career and Technical Center has offered this Class for students during the past two years. Principal Brett Keasler told WEIS Radio News, that it was made possible with a grant from the State with the assistance of State Representative Jenny Shaver. Keasler said going forward to the next school term, the program would be offered at night only and will be open to anyone who wants to get the fire training in addition to the school students.

Those classes have been taught by Centre Fire Chief Jeremy Lee and EMA Director Shawn Rogers.