Harrison Township, Washington County, Launches Firefighter Apprenticeship Program

Harrison Township, Washington County, Launches Firefighter Apprenticeship Program

Harrison Township and Montgomery County have launched a new paid firefighter apprenticeship program to help prepare the next generation of fire and EMS professionals.

Announced at Harrison Township Fire Station 94, the program is designed for young adults ages 18-24 and combines classroom instruction, paid on-the-job training, and real-world experience. Participants will take part in ride-alongs, job shadowing, station operations, and supervised field experience, while working toward certifications such as Ohio Firefighter I and II, EMT, CPR, and FEMA/NIMS.

Harrison Township Fire Chief Mike Crist said the partnership creates an important pipeline for future first responders at a time when fire and EMS agencies are facing increased call volumes and workforce challenges. 

Montgomery County’s Workforce Development Youth Career Services is funding tuition, textbooks, and course-related fees for approved training. For more information, click here.

This first appeared in the July/August 2026 issue of the Ohio Township News magazine. Contact the OTA at communications@ohiotownships.org to submit your township stories.