VIDEO: In response to the urgent demand for firefighters, both locally and nationwide, the North Collier Fire Rescue District has recently brought on board 22 new recruits. This marks their largest and most diverse group yet.
Heather Mazurkiewicz, the public information officer for North Collier Fire, said she is proud to see the new recruits.
"I want a little girl when we go to a school to see another girl get off of the firetruck. I want an African American to see an African American on the fire trucks," she said. "Because we believe wholeheartedly that not only is it our job to save lives and preserve property, but it's our job to inspire the next generation of firefighters."
These recruits, some as young as 19, are currently undergoing intensive training at North Collier Fire Station 45.