Well, since no one has checked into this group yet, I'll try to start a discussion. I'm toally new at this "blog" stuff so bear with me. Anyone who has followed the local news in St Louis knows that the St Louis FD is going through turmoil over the issue of promotions. Questions arise such as; How frequently should tests be given? How should competency for the position sought be established? What constitutes an "adverse impact" in the promotional testing system? How should concerns about minority hiring; promotion; and recruitment be addressed? What minimum qualifications should a candidate posses to test for the position of Captain, Battalion Chief, etc.? So with that said, let me introduce another question into the mix. Should additional formal education, such as degrees in Fire Science; Safety Administration; Fire And EMS Administration be required for promotion to positions such as Captain or BC? Or should those who posses such degrees be given extra points in the promotional process?
In my personal opinion, and that's all it is, (take it for what it's worth) Candidates for Captain should probably have a minimum of a Certificate in Fire Science, and given additional points toward promotion for an Associate or Bachelor's degree in Fire Science. For Battalion and Deputy Chiefs, I think an Associate Degree in Fire Science is a must, and additional points granted for a Bachelor's Degree in Fire Science, Fire administration, or Public Safety.
In addition to this I think a Captain candidate should either have or have had a valid EMT-B License within the past 5 years. Paramedics should get some extra credit, but not over Fire Science. Well, what do the rest of you all think? Does this sound reasonable or have I gone crazy?
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