Madison Reporter

Madison College's HPS Fire Program has been granted $10,070 by the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) to enhance its NextGen Responders Academy, aimed at training youth firefighters. Angela White, Senior Academic Manager for Fire & EMS, expressed gratitude for the grant, stating, "We appreciate this grant support and collaboration with DSPS to expand program availability to more students and improve the safety of participants."

The NextGen Responders Academy is designed to introduce fire service careers to Wisconsin students, particularly high school seniors and juniors. The program enrolls up to 24 students in spring and fall academic year classes, where successful graduates receive certification as Firefighter I’s with hazardous materials operations and emergency medical responders. Graduates of the NextGen Academy can further their careers through local internships, early employment opportunities, or by enrolling in Madison College's Fire and EMS associate degree programs.

The initiative aims to boost recruitment in fire departments and improve the availability of training for aspiring youth firefighters. Interested individuals can find more information on Madison College's NextGen Responders Academy webpage.