Applications must be submitted by 5 p.m. on March 28
Hillsborough County, Fla. (March 7, 2025) - Teenagers who dream of being a Hillsborough County Fire Rescue firefighter have a chance to live their dreams now.
The Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Foundation is hosting the 2025 Summer Youth Fire Academy, and students ages 14 to 18 have until March 28 to apply for the two-week summer program.
Hillsborough County Fire Rescue instructors will teach the students hands-on lessons and the multiple roles that firefighters have in their jobs.
The program curriculum includes fire ground operations, use of firefighting bunker gear, aerial ladder climb, search and rescue, forcible entry, rappelling and knots, water safety, CPR and first aid, and the history of the fire service.
Applicants must be high school students or graduating seniors between the ages of 14 and 18. A panel will review applications and make final selections based on class size.
The academy is free. Classes will be held June 9 - 20 at the Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Headquarters, 9450 E. Columbus Dr., Tampa, FL 33619. Uniforms, lunches, snacks, water, and sports drinks will be provided. Attendance is mandatory for all days.
Applicants must submit their application by 5 p.m. on March 28. Along with the application, students must submit a personal essay and include two letters of recommendation.