Darlington Firefighter Jess Tucker.
A desk job wasn’t an option for Darlington Firefighter Jess Tucker.
After deciding that spending years studying at university didn’t appeal, she looked at other options and came across the Firefighter Apprenticeship scheme with County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service (CDDFRS).
Jess, from Middlesborough, applied for the course and in 2022 joined the Service on Apprentice Cohort 6.
“I just wanted a job that was different every day,” she said.
“I couldn’t have a sit-down job as I need to keep busy and do different things.”
A year later, Jess passed out as an apprentice firefighter in front of her family and friends and is now enjoying life on Green Watch at Darlington Fire Station.
“I enjoy the variety and the fact that you never know what you are going to be doing next,” she said.
“It is great to be able to help people in their time of need.”
“My family and friends are so proud of me for becoming a Firefighter.
“None of them are in the fire service and they knew how much I wanted it, so my pass out parade was a great day where I got to celebrate with them.”
The fitness side of the role was a huge draw for the 22-year-old who enjoys running, boxing and going to the gym in her spare time.
“I am so lucky to be able to train in the gym every day at work and I love being part of a crew – it is like having another family,” Jess said.
“You spend two days and two nights with them, so you go to the gym together and do everything together.”
Jess, who worked in a restaurant before joining the Service, said she loved the practical side of the apprenticeship.
“There is a lot to take on, but it is worth it in the end,” she said.
“I liked all the practical training and really enjoyed the Breathing Apparatus (BA) training.
“The station rotation part of the course, where you spend time working on different stations, was also useful as it enabled me to meet lots of people.
“I would say to anyone thinking about joining the Service to just go for it!”
County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service (CDDFRS) are seeking new recruits to join their 38-month-long apprenticeship scheme.
To register your interest and start your recruitment journey, please visit: https://apollo.adc.uk.com/s/apprenticerecruit2024
