We as firefighters often talk about getting more people in the door ­– but what about the ones who are already here? What about the young firefighters trying to find their footing?

I’ve been fortunate enough to meet and learn from some of the best leaders and instructors in the fire service, as well as work under solid officers on my volunteer department. After a long discussion with Chief Frank Leeb, he recognized my passion mirrors his own 30 years ago, and he challenged me to share my perspective of the fire service as an 18-year-old firefighter.

The first thing that comes to mind is the lack of trust in the younger generation. Too often, I hear older firefighters talking down to younger ones. Don’t get me wrong ­– there are things not to like about my generation, but don’t group us all together. There are plenty of young men and women who want to go to fires, who want to train, and who want to earn respect the right way.

When I think about that, I’m reminded of Lt. Ray McCormack’s “Culture of Extinguishment” speech at FDIC ­– a video I watch frequently. He said:

“I hear a lot about these college kids entering the fire service, but believe it or not, we had college kids entering the fire service back in the ’80s. Believe me, I know ­– I was one of them. Yes, it can seem overwhelming that our firefighters now have a degree instead of a trade. But it’s up to you to develop a trade in them. The trade of firefighter.”…

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A Gen Z Firefighter: What I See, What I Feel, and What I Believe - CRACKYL

Grind We as firefighters often talk about getting more people in the door ­– but what about the ones who are already here?

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