Future Firefighters in Franklin: Paid Intern Program & Summer Camp Opportunities Now Open
The Franklin Fire Department is expanding opportunities for young people who are interested in a future in the fire service. With both a paid Fire Intern Program for recent high school graduates and a hands-on summer camp for teens, the department is building a clear pathway for students at different stages to explore, train, and potentially launch a career in public safety.
Franklin Fire Intern Program Offers Paid Path Into the Fire Service
Graduates from the Classes of 2025 and 2026 have a new opportunity to begin a career in public safety right here in Franklin.
The Franklin Fire Department is now accepting applications for its Fire Intern Program, a paid training program for young adults interested in entering the fire service. To make that path more accessible, the department has lowered its hiring age from 21 to 18. Applications are open through April 3, 2026.
The program was introduced in 2025 as a way to create an early pathway into the profession. Participants attend the department’s Recruit Academy alongside Fire Cadets and complete the same core training required for firefighter certification.
The selection process is competitive and mirrors the department’s career hiring process. Applicants are encouraged to review requirements carefully and apply early to prepare for each phase.
What the Fire Intern Program Includes
Fire Interns commit to approximately 20 weeks of training at 40 hours per week. Interns are paid $20.40 per hour and are employed as seasonal employees during the academy.
Those who complete the program successfully may be considered for a Fire Cadet position, depending on available openings.
Certifications Earned
Participants earn:
- Firefighter I and II
- Emergency Medical Responder (EMR)
These certifications qualify graduates to apply for fire departments across Tennessee and neighboring states.
Who Is Eligible?
Applicants must:
- Be at least 18 years old by April 29, 2026
- Be a high school graduate from the Class of 2025 or 2026
- Hold a valid driver’s license
- Complete the same hiring process required for career firefighter candidates
Last year, five interns completed the program, and each was offered a full-time position with the department. Applications close April 3, 2026. More information and application details are available here.
Lead with Fire Summer Camp Introduces Teens to Firefighting in Franklin
In addition to the Fire Intern Program, the Franklin Fire Department is also offering an opportunity for younger students to explore the profession.
Registration is now open for the 3rd Annual Lead with Fire Summer Camp, a three-day hands-on experience taking place June 1–3, 2026, at the Franklin Fire Training Center.
Open to rising 9th through 12th graders ages 14–18, the camp gives teens an inside look at the realities of firefighting. Participants will train outdoors and take part in activities such as suiting up in turnout gear and SCBA, practicing vehicle extrication, advancing hose lines, conducting search and rescue scenarios, and riding in the platform of an aerial apparatus.
The camp is offered in partnership with Williamson County Schools College, Career, and Technical Education, though students do not have to attend a WCS school to participate.
Lead with Fire Summer Camp Details
- June 1–3, 2026
- 8 am–3 pm daily
- Franklin Fire Training Center, 419 Century Court
- $50 registration fee (includes lunch, camp t-shirt, and hat)
- Limited to 20 participants
- High school graduates are not eligible
More information and registration are available here. For questions, contact Firefighter David Konstant at david.konstant@franklintn.gov.
Building the Next Generation of Franklin Firefighters
From hands-on summer experiences for teens to paid academy training for recent graduates, the Franklin Fire Department is creating multiple entry points into the fire service. Whether a student is just beginning to explore the profession or ready to pursue certification and full-time employment, these programs offer a structured path forward. With limited spots available in both the intern program and summer camp, interested applicants are encouraged to review the requirements and apply early.
