New internship program looks to diversify workforce at Madison Fire Department

The Madison Fire Department announced a new internship program on Thursday aimed at cultivating up-and-coming talent from communities historically underrepresented in the public safety workforce.

The City of Madison Firefighter/EMT Development Program will begin accepting applications on Wednesday, March 13, with an expected start date in June 2024. The internship is a comprehensive, full-time paid learning experience and career development pathway geared toward youth interested in firefighting and EMS as a career. Two interns will be selected and will be paid $17.50 per hour during the program.

Throughout their two-year commitment to the program, interns will participate in the operational and administrative aspects of the Madison Fire Department, according to a press release. They will also earn an associate degree from Madison College. Upon completion of the program, successful participants will be qualified for placement on the Firefighter/EMT hiring eligibility list for the Madison Fire Department...