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Live-In Student Program

The program is run through Southern Maine Community College’s Fire Science Department, also a branch of Maine Fire Training and Education. Originally the program was designed for just the Fire Science Department, but with the development of the Paramedic Associates Degree Program, the program has opened up to those whom are in either degree program.

The program was developed to help both the community and the student. The student is given a station assignment in which they live and are assigned to an engine company. They are trained by the department and assigned as a call firefighter and then compensated for calls that they respond to. In return the student will keep the station clean and perform other various station duties.

WCSH 6 2014 SMCC Live-In Program Story

Minimum requirements for program participation:

  • Must be 18 years of age
  • Must be a full time student at a local college
  • Must submit an application/resume to Standish Fire-EMS for employment
  • Must successfully complete an oral interview
  • Must successfully complete a department physical
  • Must have a valid driver’s license with no OUI convictions or other major violations and pass a criminal record check
  • Must attend Rookie School Training
  • Must have own means of transportation
  • Must sign a written contract with Standish Fire-EMS
  • Preference will be given to students with firefighting experience
  • Must maintain a “C” average

The program has a good track rate for job placement. There have been students from the program who are now working as full time firefighters in Portland, South Portland, Brunswick, Auburn, Sanford, and even out of state.

Advantages Include:

  • Training
  • Turn Out Gear
  • Hands on Experience for Career Development

Central Station Features:

  • Central Air Conditioning
  • Bunk Room for 3 Students
  • Cable TV, Phone
  • Computer with Wireless Internet Access
  • Washer and Dryer

North Gorham Station Features:

  • Mutual-Aid Station, Standish and Gorham
  • Bunk Room for 2 Students
  • Free Cable TV, Phone
  • Computer with Cable Internet