Four firefighters have now become the latest group to complete the new ‘Direct Hire Program’ at the Columbia-Richland Fire Department. Following training that spanned roughly 8 weeks these new members were officially sworn into service by Fire Chief Aubrey D. Jenkins on Thursday April 14. They then began service to the community on Saturday August 16.
“This now brings the total number of people who have completed our ‘Direct Hire Program’ to 9,” said Chief Jenkins, “Each of these new firefighters brings past experience and acquired skills that will be of great help to our department and our crews. I look forward to seeing them progress in their careers here at CRFD over the coming weeks and months.”
The department’s ‘Direct Hire Program’ allows candidates with prior experience and the proper certifications to begin running calls with the department faster through an abridged fire academy program. Training for candidates in the program spans about 2 months. Applicants who are new to the fire service are encouraged to apply for the standard training program, which spans about 18 weeks.
Each new firefighter was officially badged by Fire Chief Jenkins during a brief ceremony at department headquarters on April 14. Family members of the honorees were allowed to be in attendance to celebrate the accomplishments of their loved ones.
The Columbia-Richland Fire Department is proud to congratulate our newest members!
Firefighter Caleb Edgehill Firefighter Jacob Hardee
Firefighter Daniel Morris Firefighter John West
