NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR THE 2023-2024 SCHOOL YEAR
BFD College Firefighter Live-In/Bunker Program
Are you a firefighter and a student attending college in the Rochester area?
If so then the Brighton Fire Department has a Live-In/Bunker Program that you may be interested in. Our program will allow you to enhance and build your firefighting skills, participate as an interior firefighter while you are away from home at school, gain experience working with both career and volunteer firefighters all while attending college rent free.
If this interests you the Brighton Fire Department will host an informational meeting for student firefighters interested in joining our live-in program for the 2022 -2023 academic year.
The informational session will be held at Brighton Fire Station One (3100 East Avenue, Rochester) in May of each year on a to-be-scheduled Saturday morning. However, it’s never too early to reserve a spot or express interest.
Applicants should contact livein@brightonfd.org in advance for information on the program and program requirements. Or send us your contact info via our inquiry form.
Please be sure to study our website to learn more about our volunteer opportunities and entire organization.
Benefits
Some benefits include:
- A successful track record since 2006
- Living accommodations at no cost.
- Bed, desk and dresser
- Kitchen facilities.
- Cable TV
- Up to 13 credit hours of college credit for participation.
- 100 mb/sec Wifi access
- Laundry facilities
- Parking
- Fire gear and uniforms
- Training opportunities
- Ample opportunity for fire calls (2500 calls annually)
In addition to the features of the program, all Live-In Bunker participants can:
- Attend any BFD training session with both volunteer and career staff
- Attend any BFD fire call riding apparatus or personal vehicle while off duty
- Participate in other BFD programs outside of their bunker schedule
- Attend all applicable social functions and meetings
Where they are today...
Many of our Bunkers have gone on to pursue successful careers in departments such as:
Brighton Fire Department
FDNY
Ridge Road Fire District
Fishers Fire Department
Batavia Fire Department
Rochester Fire Department
Rochester Airport Fire Department
Monroe County Sheriff’s Office
Rochester Police Department
Richmond, Va, Police Department
Testimonials
“The bunker program was instrumental to me starting my career. I included it on every resume for every fire department position I applied for. Having the experience of working in a combination department like Brighton prepared me for my career with one of the largest combination departments in the country. Being a member of the Brighton Fire Department bunker program was one of the best decisions I ever made and would strongly recommend it to anybody who is looking to gain experience with a great department ”
CHRIS KENNEY (2012-2014)
ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT
“Being apart of the bunk program was a great experience for me. During my two years i learned a great amount, on the fire ground and in the firehouse. The firehouse etiquette was one of the best things i learned. Being a part of the guys and feeling welcomed, along with knowing the guys trusted me and the other bunkers made for a great experience. ”
AKE BEMENT (2010-2012)
FISHERS FIRE DEPARTMENT
“The Bunker program at the Brighton Fire Department is a great way to continue to engage yourself as a firefighter while attending college. This program provides students with the opportunity to volunteer 24 hours a week in exchange for room and board at a off campus house. If your looking to pursue a career as a firefighter this program will certainly help you develop the knowledge and experience you need”
STEVE CLINE BUNKER (2009-2012)
BRIGHTON FIRE DEPARTMENT
FAQ
A. All bunkers must be Firefighter 1 certified by August of the starting school year. If you
can’t meet the deadline, it may be possible to start the spring semester or participate in
our Squad program.
A. Several of our past bunkers have gone on to great careers in the fire service, including
the Brighton Fire Department, FDNY, Ridge Road FD, and Greater Rochester Intl
Airport.
We can’t guarantee a job, but we do offer you the opportunity to work alongside a career
staff and gain valuable real-life experience which could benefit you.
A. No, this is not required but it is preferred since 40 percent of our calls are EMS related.
A. All equipment not issued by the Brighton Fire Department must be approved, so yes, it is
possible.
A. Yes, we offer a non live-in opportunity which requires less hours of scheduled
participation and provides a guaranteed spot in the bunkhouse should a spot become
Available. You would go through the same application process as a live-in.