JOSEPHINE COUNTY, Ore. — As February draws near, the newest recruits of Rural Metro Fire are nearing the end of their rigorous training program, preparing for their graduation and future careers as firefighters. These dedicated men and women are pushing through challenging drills and real-world simulations designed to hone their skills and prepare them for the unpredictable nature of emergency response.
The recruits are part of the Rogue Valley Interagency Training Academy, where they spend their weekends attending classroom sessions before heading back to the fire station for hands-on exercises with seasoned firefighters. This combination of theoretical learning and practical application builds muscle memory, enabling recruits to respond instinctively during high-stress situations.
For Firefighter Alex Konstantakis, who completed his training months ago and joined Rural Metro Fire last summer, the unpredictability of the job is one of the key aspects that keeps him motivated.
“Not every day is the same. Every call is a little bit different, and it kind of keeps you on your toes,” Konstantakis said. “Just having those initial steps and being able to build off of that, and adapt to whatever scenario you’re in—that’s what it’s all about.”
For recruits like Emillie Thompson and Delaney Skinner, who joined the program in December, the decision to pursue firefighting stems from a deep desire to make a positive impact on their communities.
Thompson’s path to firefighting was shaped by a life-changing car accident during her childhood. During that time, a woman firefighter came to her aid, leaving a lasting impression on Thompson. “Back then, women firefighters weren’t as common, but there was one who helped me. She planted the seed for me,” Thompson recalled.
Skinner, on the other hand, has dreamed of becoming a firefighter for as long as she can remember. After spending two years with the Oregon Department of Forestry, she is now entering her third summer of experience and is eager to push herself further in the field. “For me, honestly, it’s been a lifelong dream. I’ve spent two years with ODF, about to start my third summer, and I’ve just fallen in love with it. I wanted to be pushed,” Skinner said.
While the rewards of the profession are clear, the physical demands are no less challenging. Firefighting gear alone weighs around 60 pounds, making each movement strenuous, especially when responding to emergencies. Both Thompson and Skinner have come to realize the intense physical toll the job takes, but they are unwavering in their commitment to the work.
“It’s hard lifting people while wearing turnout gear with an oxygen cylinder, but it’s worth it when you can help someone for sure,” Thompson explained.
As they approach graduation, the recruits understand that their training doesn’t end there. After entering the field, they will face a probationary period in which they will continue to refine their skills and gain more experience under the mentorship of veteran firefighters.
Their journey, though grueling, is a testament to their resilience, passion, and dedication to serving their community when it matters most.