In October 2023, Matt Kendall joined Collegeville Fire Company, and by June 2024, he successfully completed his Firefighter I course at Montgomery County Fire Academy. He learned about volunteer opportunities when he moved to the area, across the street from the fire station.
“After a few weeks of hearing the house siren and the sound of fire trucks leaving, I got curious,” said Matt. “Being new to the area, I was looking for ways to get involved with the community and I realized volunteer firefighting might be exactly what I was looking for.”
As a child, Matt was fascinated by the idea of being a firefighter and it wasn’t something he seriously considered as an adult. Learning that he could serve as a firefighter without giving up his day job reignited that childhood dream.
“I love learning new things, and there are a lot of skills that need to be taught and mastered as a new firefighter,” said Matt. “Going through the fire academy was a big adventure.”
Before earning his Firefighter I certification, Matt assisted on the fireground in a support role, helping with tasks such as operating hydrants and handling equipment. He was eager to graduate and do more.
“My first fire after getting certified was a rush,” said Matt. “Racing towards the scene with lights and sirens, putting on my SCBA for the first ‘real’ time, knowing that when we got there, I wouldn’t just be waiting outside with the hydrant anymore.”
Despite completing his Firefighter I course, Matt remains eager to continue learning both in and out of the classroom.
“Using a skill on the fireground for the first time is a very rewarding feeling,” said Matt. “Many don’t realize how dependent Montgomery County is on volunteer firefighters; a need that is only increasing as volunteer numbers decline.”
Through his experience, Matt gained a deeper appreciation for the critical role volunteer firefighters play in the community.
Matt reminds community members, “If not you, then who?”
To get connected with your local fire company fill out the contact form under the Volunteer/Contact Us tab.
