UACCB Launches New Firefighter Rookie Training Program

Local fire chiefs, instructors, college leaders, Chamber Ambassadors, and community partners came together at the ceremony to celebrate their teamwork in preparing future firefighters for Independence County and nearby areas. To honor the profession, participants used the jaws of life to cut the ceremonial ribbon.

 

“This collaboration brings the quality instruction of the Arkansas Fire Training Academy to local fire stations and higher education,” said Zach Perrine, Provost of UACCB. “We thank them for their desire to develop these future firefighters.”

 

Perrine thanked the many people and organizations who helped start the program, including Scott Phillips, Dr. Becky Warren, Katrina Stevens, the Arkansas Fire Training Academy team, and Dr. Tina Ward from the Arkansas Department of Higher Education. He also thanked Vital Link for donating a television and laptop for instruction, as well as UACCB’s grounds, maintenance, and information services teams for their support.

 

Grant Warren, director of the Arkansas Fire Training Academy, said the idea started in October 2024, when academy leaders visited Batesville to talk with Pleasant Plains Fire Chief Stacey Caplener about creating a local rookie school. Caplener’s efforts helped form the partnership between area fire departments, UACCB, and the Arkansas Fire Training Academy. After meeting with local leaders, Warren felt confident the partnership would work. He said the program will help both firefighters in Independence County and nearby areas, as well as the people who rely on them.

 

Fire Chief Mark McCollum called the training center an investment in the safety of firefighters and the communities they protect.

 

“This is about more than a building. It’s about commitment, leadership, and making sure our firefighters have the training they need to protect our communities and return home safely to their families,” McCollum said.

 

He also praised the teamwork among area fire chiefs, UACCB, and the Arkansas Fire Training Academy. He noted that while departments may work separately, they all share the same goal of protecting lives and serving others. “Training is not an expense; it is an investment in human life,” McCollum said.

 

The rookie school is a great chance to bring firefighter training closer to home. It helps new recruits gain the knowledge and skills they need to join the fire service. The partnership also lets current firefighters improve their skills through individual courses.

 

If you want to become a firefighter, contact your local fire department or volunteer fire department to find out how to join the rookie school. Students may be able to use the Arkansas Workforce Challenge scholarship to pay for the program, making training more affordable. Current firefighters can also sign up for individual courses to meet training needs or learn new skills. For more details, course information, and registration, visit UACCB’s Firefighter I program page.

 

The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce congratulates UACCB, the Arkansas Fire Training Academy, area fire departments, and all partners on this important step for workforce development and public safety. By working together, the White River Fire Training Center will help prepare firefighters to serve their communities for years to come.