Wcpd13

How many since 1982-83?

Hello,
Some of you may know me, others may not. I am John "Will" Schowengerdt, and I want to be the best firefighter I can be. I've started the fire program at the local tech school and have my NFPA 1001/IFSAC FF1/Hazmat Ops, and am a LT at a neighboring towns explorer post. Because I don't live in the city the department I am in explorer for serves and they are not payed, I cannot run calls unless I'm at the station for drill, which are few and far between, if I'm even allowed to ride.
My parents, are both college educated, and (for the most part my mother) believes no matter what I need a college education, no matter how many times I tell her in the age of city service exams and equal opportunity employment it is a waste of time for a white male like me to spend 4 years in school.
I've come across a few compromises such as FDs with Live-in or student Firefighter or Resident Firefighter programs. I've decided that if I have to get a fire science degree I want to get the best one I can, or at least a close to it. The bottom line is, I don't want to be held back like I am as an explorer, I understand why that is but if I'm going to go somewhere I want to be treated as any other probie would, regardless of if I'm in school or not.
So here is my question, do you know of any well known/renown/respected programs like this or schools with a FD I can serve at in the area?
I should note, that the above is meant to offend no one. This is just my opinion based on what I have heard from firemen who are in the type or position I would like to be in. I could be dead wrong or have misinterpreted what they said. So I apologize to anyone I have crossed the wrong way with these words.
Thank you very much for your time and wisdom, and have a great weekend,
John "Will" Schowengerdt
P.S. Stay safe.

Truck Type : Pumper
Chassis : Ferrara Inferno
Engine : Cummins ISM 500 HP
Transmission : Allison 4000 EVS
Front Axle : 18,000
Rear Axle : 27,000
Overall Height : 9’ 4”
Overall Length : 31’ 1”
Overall Width : 100”
Wheelbase : 180”
Pump : Waterous CSU 2000 GPM
Tank Size : 1000 Gallon UPF
Generator : Harrison 10KW
Unique Truck Features:
Roto-Ray LED light on front of cab, Zico Electric Ladder Rack, Ferrara Smart Wheel steering wheel
This will replace a 1988 Hahn Pumper.