Mental Health: Recruiting and Educating Gen Z Firefighters – Jeremy Blair & Courtney Hull

Peter Matthews talks with Jeremy Blair and Courtney Hull about a unique program that prepares high school seniors to become firefighters through Waukesha County Technical College in Wisconsin.

The two share how fire departments can better connect with Gen Z recruits by rethinking education and engagement through recruitment. Blair explains why today’s students want to feel part of something bigger and why teaching methods must evolve. Hull offers insight into adolescent brain development and why vulnerability-based trust is essential for building strong future firefighters.

Related links:

• Don’t Blame the Lettuce! Developing the Next Generation of First Responders
• Waukesha County Technical College: Fire and EMS Training Center
• Plugged In