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

Released: September 29, 2023 at 3:07 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 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.

Was this information helpful?

How can we make this web page better?

Information collected will be used to improve our website. Do not use this form to submit a request for service or information because it will not be forwarded to departments for response. To submit a request for service or information, contact 311.

This form is not intended to collect personal information; however, any personal information you choose to include in your comments is collected by the City of Winnipeg under the authority of section 36(1)(b) of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act for the purpose of improving our website and will not be used or disclosed for any other purposes, except as authorized by law. Contact the Corporate Access and Privacy Officer by mail (City Clerk’s Department, Susan A. Thompson Building, 510 Main Street, Winnipeg MB, R3B 1B9) or by telephone (311) if you have any questions about the collection of this information.