Wilmington Fire Department recruiting next generation of firefighters

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — The Wilmington Fire Department is recruiting its next class of firefighters, offering paid training and a pathway into a career centered on public service.

Department leaders say they are looking for hardworking, dedicated candidates who want to serve the community and are willing to take on the physical and mental demands of the job.

New recruits enter a yearlong, paid training academy. The first six months are spent in the classroom earning required certifications, followed by six months of on-the-job training alongside experienced firefighters responding to emergency calls. After completing the academy, firefighters earn a starting salary of more than $58,000.

For Grady Hildebrand, one of the department’s newest firefighters, the experience has been about more than learning the technical skills of the job.

“It’s got its aggressive culture, teamwork, the family aspect of working together, but also just being out in the community serving,” said Hildebrand.

Hildebrand recently completed the academy and is now assigned to Station 9. He said responding to real emergencies alongside veteran firefighters has been the most valuable part of his training.

“There’s just so much you can learn out in the streets that you can’t learn in a classroom or a textbook and it’s been really great to see the difference there,” said Hildebrand.

He said while the work can be mentally and physically demanding, the camaraderie among firefighters helps them navigate the challenges of the profession.

“Having a group of people to come back to, that have a shared experience and that also went through the same things you just went through, and to be able to talk through it, makes you feel like you got a place.”

Capt. Robert Patterson, who leads the department’s training division, said the department is looking for recruits who are committed to serving others.

“We’re helping someone in their worst times mostly, and hopefully that we can give a good outcome for the individuals,” said Patterson.

Patterson said one of the most rewarding parts of his role is watching recruits develop throughout the academy and graduate ready to serve.

“It is good to see them from start and then, when they graduate, how much they have gained knowledge through the fire service,” said Patterson.

The Wilmington Fire Department is accepting applications for its training academy. More information about qualifications and the application process is available on the City of Wilmington Fire Department’s website.