May 25, 2023
Today, Edmonton Fire Rescue Services (EFRS) welcomed 31 new firefighters to its team.
This newest group of firefighters come from across Canada including Alberta, Ontario and Saskatchewan, and are fluent in English, French and Spanish.
Prior to joining EFRS, recruits gained experience and skills working in various industries including hospitality, nursing, the music industry, construction and trades, social work, teaching and wildland firefighting.
“Each new member to the service comes with a different range of experiences and strengths that, when used as part of a team, increases our ability to solve problems and connect with those we serve. These collective strengths make our fire service stronger and support delivering excellent service to Edmontonians,” said Acting Fire Chief, David Lazenby.
Since 2020, EFRS has seen an increase in the number of women applicants to our recruit training program. This year’s graduating class includes three new firefighters who identify as women and two were participants of the EFRS Camp Inspire program, which promotes firefighting as a rewarding career to historically marginalized communities.
“We are so happy to see participants from our Camp Inspire program recognize that a career in our service is rewarding and something they want to be a part of,” said Acting Fire Chief, David Lazenby. “Inclusivity and representation in our service are vital to our ability to grow, evolve, and best serve the diverse communities and individuals we interact with.”
These 31 new firefighters will join teams at fire stations throughout the city.
