The number of people applying to the Raleigh Fire Department is the lowest it’s been in at least three years.
According to the city, 446 people applied to become a firefighter this year, compared to 795 in 2020, and 665 in 2019. Raleigh Fire Chief Herbert Griffin said the drop in interest started prior to the COVID pandemic.
“It’s not about the numbers, it’s about producing the most highly qualified candidate to serve,” said Griffin.
He added, “People are looking for gratification, they’re looking for job security and things of that nature. There are so many different things that different generations are looking for.”
President of the Raleigh Firefighters Association Andrew Davis believes low pay is a major factor, and that some applicants turn to other cities with better compensation and benefits.