Toronto fire is reaching out to Toronto Community Housing for new recruits.
Toronto Fire Services (TFS) are reaching out into the community to hire young recruits.
The TFS has five entry level positions that are recruited with external applicants, including Operations Firefighter, each of which require specialized qualifications. The Services hire about 208 Operations Firefighters annually.
“In the last few years, TFS has made several changes to remove barriers for applicants,” according to a fire services report to the City. “Changes have also been made to the screening process, and interview process with a special program that ensures all qualified Toronto residents and/or members of equity deserving groups are invited to an interview.”
There has been calls for the workforce of the fire services to reflect the community.
The Toronto Community Housing Corporation (TCHC) is working with the TFS to build tenant awareness about pathways to a career in the fire service.
“This includes dedicated outreach activities, attending TCHC job fairs, and the implementation of a new “Day in the Life” event for TCHC youth in their Youthworx program,” TFS officials said.
Fire fighting can be dangerous but gratifying work.
Some 90 TCHC tenants will be able to take part in a new career readiness program to enter the workforce. Of those, 20 tenants will also receive partial funding to obtain pre-qualifications to support their pursuit of meaningful work as a TFS Operations firefighter
This program, intended to commence in 2025, is contingent on a request in the TCHC operating budget through the 2025 budget process.