From Nicholas Beard, Communications Manager with the Bryan County Fire Department.
The Bryan County Fire Department and Emergency Services proudly serve over 50,000 residents across 450 square miles. We offer a comprehensive range of services, including fire prevention and education, emergency medical services, and fire suppression.
The Bryan County Board of Commissioners and administrative staff are dedicated to ensuring our Fire Department receives the necessary funding and staffing to effectively serve our community. Through increased budget allocations and a record number of new positions, we’ve significantly strengthened our team.
Over the past decade, we’ve expanded our firefighting force from 36 to over 100 members, greatly enhancing our emergency response capabilities. We are committed to continuing this growth to meet the needs of our vibrant and expanding community.
Recognizing the importance of a fully staffed Fire Department, Bryan County has streamlined the process of onboarding new firefighters through our comprehensive in-house training and recruitment program. This program, initiated in 2019, aims to attract local talent to the fire service, providing a solid foundation for their careers and meeting the county’s needs during this period of significant growth. Led by Division Chief of Operations and Training Shannon Bancroft, the program has launched the careers of nearly 75 firefighters. Chief Bancroft emphasizes, “Conducting in-house recruitment classes allows us to utilize the specific knowledge of our current professional staff and pass that expertise and professionalism to our recruits.” The next training session, Recruit Class 2024-02, starts on July 22, 2024.
Anyone interested in joining the recruitment class should apply on the Bryan County website for the Recruit Firefighter/EMT position when applications are open. Candidates must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and pass background, motor vehicle record, and drug checks. The training process takes approximately 20 weeks, divided into fire and EMS phases. Class sizes vary based on departmental needs and the number of applicants, with each class tailored to help candidates reach their full potential.
Chief Bancroft notes, “In-house recruit classes allow us to constantly monitor recruits’ progress and make adjustments to enhance their proficiency and potential.”
The Bryan County Fire Department is continually seeking courageous and dedicated individuals to join our ranks. We are committed to attracting and retaining the best talent by offering competitive pay and comprehensive benefits to our team members. Beyond financial rewards, we provide ongoing training and professional development opportunities, fostering a supportive and growth-oriented work environment.
Join us and become a part of a team that is not only committed to protecting the community but also to supporting and uplifting each other.