VIDEO: A first-of-its-kind Pasco County program is helping high school students hoping to become firefighters.
"Last year, my step-dad brought me to a live burn at the training center and it really sparked my interest," said Amy Newland.
For students like Newland, the "Fire Science Course" at Fivay High School is the perfect way to start climbing the ladder. She eventually wants to become a battalion chief.
"It's a great jump start for the students and allows them an opportunity to start early," said Mike Sherwin.
Sherwin is a full-time Pasco County Firefighter. He also now teaches the Fire Science Course at Fivay High School with two other instructors, Chief Shaun Whited and Mark Moe.
The program has classroom work, but the real focus is on gloves-on training with real equipment.