Batesville Aims to Establish Fire Training Academy

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Batesville Fire Chief Mark McCollum has announced plans to establish a new fire training academy in collaboration with the University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville (UACCB). The proposed academy would provide certification training for aspiring firefighters, addressing a regional need as the nearest such program is currently located in Camden. McCollum was recently appointed to the Arkansas Fire Protection Services Board, which oversees fire training curriculum across the state.

Why it matters

The creation of a local fire training academy would make it more accessible and affordable for Batesville and surrounding area residents to obtain the necessary certifications to become firefighters. This could help address staffing needs for the Batesville Fire Department and other regional fire services, while also providing valuable job training opportunities for the community.

The details

McCollum said the fire department and UACCB are currently working to organize a 'rookie' school that would hold classes twice a week year-round, replacing the previous training center at Riverside Park. The goal is to secure grants to offset costs so students would not have to pay tuition. Currently, the fire department averages two to three training sessions per month, but the new academy would significantly increase the frequency and availability of certification courses.

• McCollum was recently appointed to the Arkansas Fire Protection Services Board.
• In 2016, the White River Firefighters Association and UACCB opened a new fire training/workforce center on the college campus.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The fire department and UACCB are currently working to secure grants and finalize plans for the new fire training academy, with the goal of launching classes on a twice-weekly schedule in the near future.