Sixteen students graduate with firefighting credentials from Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service’s new diversity and equity training program

Released: September 29, 2022 at 3:22 p.m.

Diversity, equity and inclusion program aims to reduce barriers for prospective firefighters in Winnipeg

Winnipeg, MB – The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) extends warm congratulations to the 16 graduates of the first year of the Diversity and Equity Fire Training (DEFT) program.

Today, the WFPS held a formal graduation ceremony at the Winnipeg Fire Fighters Museum to honour the graduates who have all attained the Manitoba Emergency Services College’s (MESC) Firefighter I and II certification, which are minimum requirements to be eligible to apply for a firefighter position in Winnipeg.

“I’d like to offer warmest congratulations to the graduates of the Diversity and Equity Fire Training program,” said Sherri Rollins, Chairperson of the Standing Policy Committee on Protection, Community Services and Parks. “I hope you consider the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service as a potential employer in the future and I wish you every success as you continue working to achieve your career goals.”

“I am honoured to congratulate the graduates on their accomplishments after a year of very hard work amid many other responsibilities and commitments in their lives. I wish each graduate success as they continue on their path to becoming a professional firefighter in Winnipeg,” said Christian Schmidt, Fire & Paramedic Chief, Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service.

This training has traditionally required full-time schooling in-person at the MESC in Brandon, Manitoba for 9 months. This new program provides an opportunity for Winnipeg residents from designated equity groups to train in the evenings in Winnipeg for 12 months, eliminating traditional room and board costs and reducing the barriers associated with fees, time, and transportation required to become certified as a firefighter.

“We hope this program helps reduce barriers for prospective firefighters from diverse backgrounds in Winnipeg, and that we see more applicants from varying backgrounds as a result,” said Schmidt.

While registration for the 2022-23 class is full, residents can apply for future years. Prospective applicants are encouraged to visit winnipeg.ca/fps/careers for more information about how to apply for the program.

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