Winnipeg, MB – The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) extends warm congratulations to the 14 graduates of the Diversity and Equity Fire Training (DEFT) program.
Today, the WFPS held a formal graduation ceremony at the Winnipeg Firefighters 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 would like to offer my sincere congratulations to the graduating class of the Diversity and Equity Fire Training program,” said Mayor Scott Gillingham. “This is an important program that is helping prepare a very deserving group of aspiring emergency responders. Well done on completing the program, and I hope each graduate considers pursuing a career with the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service in the future.”
“I am proud to congratulate this recent class of graduates on becoming Firefighter I and II certified. I wish each graduate success as they continue on their path to becoming a professional firefighter in Winnipeg,” said Christian Schmidt, Fire and 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 program, launched in 2021, provides an opportunity for Winnipeg residents from designated equity groups to train in the evenings in Winnipeg for 12 months, eliminating 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 2023-24 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.
To learn about the first-ever graduating class (the Class of 2022), visit winnipeg.ca.