Nearly one hundred potential firefighter recruits are preparing for the Honolulu Fire Department’s entrance recruit exam next week. The Oahu Prep Academy had about 90 men and women signed up to take their practice exam on Saturday. The academy is run by six retired fire captains. Retired Fire Captain Curtis Aiwohi said they’re trying to help fill the need for new hires as the department continually has firefighters leaving the job. “Yes, COVID had a part to play with people deciding to get in or to retire early and take care of their families,” said Aiwohi. “But it’s something that we’ve grown to live with nowadays and we have strategies in place to be safe as we do the job. The academy is in its 14th year and said the response from those looking into pursue a career as a firefighter has been overwhelming. Their program includes study sessions.