July 10th 2023.
The on-site fire academy in Alabama is faced with a dual mission: fighting fires and promoting diversity. This partnership between the U.S. Forest Service and several HBCUs was established in 1993 to provide students with employment opportunities. Stephanie Love, the USDA Forest Service's national diversity student programs manager, is an alum of the Alabama A&M and a member of the first FireDawgs squad.
The effects of global climate change have made recruitment increasingly necessary in the field of firefighting and forestry, especially among minorities who are underrepresented. An apprenticeship program is one way to create a more diverse workforce and equip students with the necessary credentials. Twenty students from HBCUs participate in instructor-supervised prescribed burns, which includes clearing paths and extinguishing fires.
Love spoke on the excellence of the agricultural programs at the HBCUs, saying, "We're trying to create a pipeline of students who are pursuing this natural resources education and forestry and fire." In the past year, the Forest Service's data collection efforts show that there has been a 20% increase in diversity, with Black personnel accounting for 1.3% and Black women at 0.5%.
The students are highly appreciative of having the opportunity to connect with an HBCU alumnus and see a team of workers that look like them. Bradley Massey, a junior president of the forestry club at Alabama A&M, said his school made him interested in the firefighting and forestry industry and has helped him in his career.
To keep students interested and motivated, the Forest Service and HBCUs have implemented mentorships, scholarships, and internships. This will hopefully encourage more students to pursue a career in the firefighting and forestry industry and create a more diverse workforce.
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