County Manager initiates exterior operations training program for employees in summer

In the heart of Santa Fe County, a new initiative is igniting interest in volunteer firefighting, thanks to a collaborative training program spearheaded by County Manager and Chief Black. This past summer, the county launched an innovative training opportunity aimed at encouraging county employees to engage in exterior firefighting operations.

The program offers up to 19 hours of paid administrative leave for employees who wish to participate in training sessions focused on essential skills such as incident rehabilitation, air truck operations, and water tender management. Scheduled on Friday afternoons throughout the summer, these courses were designed to lower the barriers for those interested in volunteering.

"Training is about 20 hours, and we wanted to make it so that folks were able to participate without taking additional time away from their lives," explained the county manager. This initiative not only provides a pathway for employees to gain valuable skills but also aims to foster a deeper connection to the fire service.

Participants can choose to advance their training further, with opportunities to become wildland certified, engage in interior firefighting, or even provide emergency medical services as an EMT or paramedic. Each volunteer role is vital to the overall effectiveness of the fire department, highlighting the importance of community involvement in public safety.

By leading this initiative, the county manager hopes to inspire others to take on responsibilities within the fire service, reinforcing the idea that every contribution, no matter how small, plays a critical role in protecting the community. As the program continues to unfold, it promises to strengthen the bonds between county employees and the vital work of volunteer firefighting, ensuring that Santa Fe County remains prepared and resilient in the face of emergencies.