20 January 2024
WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) — After 14 weeks of training, the Wichita Fire Department welcomed a new batch of recruits on Friday.
The class was the third class of 2023. Class instructor and WFD lieutenant Clint Gifford said they’re not starving for candidates, so they find the best of the best.
“That would be our third class of the year 2023,” Gifford said. “A lot of participants would like this job. So it’s something that we haven’t struggled with. We still get the candidates that we need that are top-notch.”
New WFD graduate Reed Norris said he’s taking up the mantle his grandfather had in Wisconsin as a firefighter, and he’s excited to serve Wichita.
“My grandfather was a fireman back home in Wisconsin, where I came from,” Norris said. “But getting the opportunity to go to the firehouse and experience the difference that these individuals were making for the community was something that I found at a young age and that I found to be important. Something that I wanted to continue.”
Norris also said he’s ready to hit the ground running to help people.
“What I’m looking forward to most is getting the opportunity to take all of these skills and knowledge and experience that we’ve gathered from the instructors and use it to actually make that difference in someone else’s day,” Norris said.
Wichita Mayor Lily Wu was also on hand to speak.
“They respond with skill and swiftness,” Wu said. “Help those in need or in danger.”
Brent Fischer, another graduate, said he appreciates the support of his family.
“It feels like a great accomplishment,” Fischer said. “The training is one thing, but now we’re about to be on the floor and actually doing the job. You can’t do this job for a full career without the support of your family. It means everything.’
Tune into KSN News at 10 for continuing coverage!