The Newport News Fire Department is comprised of dual-role personnel. As such, Firefighter-Medics rotate their emergency response duties between ambulance and fire apparatuses. Due to their dual-role responsibilities, once hired, Recruits are required to successfully graduate from two (2) separate structured Recruit training programs designed to maximize their dual-role capabilities:
- Successful graduation from the Tidewater Regional Fire Academy (TRFA)
- A fast paced, college-level Emergency Medical Services course culminating in achieving National Registry as an EMT-Intermediate
Recruits are compensated during training in extensive fire and emergency medical academies. Upon completion of Fire and EMS programs, Firefighter/Medics will earn a competitive salary while averaging ten (10) working days per month.