The Miami Beach Fire Department offers opportunities for an exciting career, educational growth and serving the community on a daily basis. That was just one of the many messages members of the Miami Beach Fire Department delivered to Miami-Dade students during the recent Fifth Annual College Expo and Career Fair held at the grounds of the Miami-Dade County Fair and Exposition.
Sponsored by Miami-Dade Public Schools, in partnership with the civic organization, 100 Black Men, the event allowed more than 5,000 Miami-Dade Public school students to learn about a host of career choices awaiting them upon graduation, including a career in the fire service.
Miami Beach Fire Department Assistant Chief Juan Mestas says partnering with with 100 Black Men for the college fair and exposition was a perfect opportunity to showcase a diverse department and reach students who could be the next generation of firefighting professionals.
“Our South Florida community was represented with everything from a rookie to a 38-year veteran, African-Americans, Haitian-Americans, Cuban-Americans, males and a female,” said Mestas. “During this career fair, we represented what the Miami Beach Fire Department looks like and to show these young students that this highly exciting and personally rewarding job opportunity is within their reach.”
Members of the Miami Beach Fire Department answered student questions about what educational and training requirements are necessary to prepare oneself for the fire service field. They also provided information on the specific job opportunities available within the ranks of the fire department and the continuing education programs offered to members of the team.
Miami Beach Firefighter Daniel Antoine says it was important for him to be at the fair and share his experience in the department so that his experience might inspire other young people. “When I was coming out of high school, I didn’t know about the fire service. I wish someone back then had educated me about the fire service.”
“If you’re looking for a job or career that’s dynamic and one you won’t get tired of, this is the job,” explained Miami Beach Firefighter Derek Lewis, II. “This is a job that is always exciting. You get to help people. When you go to the station it feels like you’re at home with your brothers and sisters. That’s what makes this career different and one that stands out from any other career out there.”
