The Next Generation of Firefighters
As a part of the Fire District mission, we are making a conscious decision to ensure that we partner with other agencies and community organizations to create an "On-Ramp" for teens and young adults to discover if a fire services career is a passion they want to pursue.
The District is hosting an ROP Fire Science class (Fall 2022) for Junior and Seniors at Kerman High School. These students have been and will be exposed to a potential career of service, and give them the opportunity to live and work in their community.
In the Spring of 2023, Kerman High School will begin accpeting registration for the Fall 2023 class of 24 students.
Kerman High School ROP & Fresno City College Fire Academy Internship
This program provides experiences that help young people prepare to become responsible and caring adults while exposing them to the insight of the firefighting world. ROP students learn how to be team players, build relationships and develop a strong work ethic as they develop skills.
Students may participate in one or two full school years in the program before graduating. The ROP classes prepared the students for the next step to a sucessfull career by enrolling in the Fresno Community College (FCC), Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) program.
Once the student obtains their EMT certificate, they are eligible to attend the 1,000+ hour FCC Fire Academy where they achieve their State Fire Marshal, Fire Fighter I & II certification.
The North Central Fire Protection District is commited to the students growth even after their fire academy graduation. We try to maintain ten to fifteen FCC Fire Academy graduates as "Student Interns" for two FCC semesters, where they become a part of the fire crew and participate in all aspects of the fire service. From responding to emergency calls, assisting with public education events, fire prevention inspections, and experiencing what it is like to work 24 hour shifts, eating and sleeping in the fire station.
By the time these Kerman High School students have completed this 3 – 4 year process, they become a highly sought out candidates for a career in the fire service.
