FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WOWO): The Fort Wayne Fire Department will be hiring 15 new firefighters. Mayor Tom Henry and the Fort Wayne Fire Department’s Fire Chief Amy Biggs made the announced today. 

The announcement came this afternoon at a press conference.

“Today’s announcement of the Fort Wayne Fire Department’s hiring initiative is evidence of the commitment to invest in Fort Wayne’s future,” said Fire Chief Amy Biggs.  “Because of the bipartisan leadership and vision of the Fiscal Policy Group, City Council and neighborhood leaders, we will hire 15 new firefighters and be better equipped to sustain the level of service and protection our residents have come to know, expect and deserve.”

“We are able to have a fire academy class that will result in more firefighters to keep our community safe,” said Mayor Tom Henry.  “We continue to see positive momentum in our community.  I salute our public safety officials who dedicate their lives to protecting us and making us a City that is safe with a great quality of life and is built for success.  I also commend the City Council members who supported the financial plan for the future and the business and neighborhood leaders who are passionate about our community and want to see investment to keep our City thriving and growing.”

The Fort Wayne Fire Department has not held an academy class or hired firefighters since 2008. 

The Fort Wayne Fire Department's hiring process:

Application Period – Now – July 26, 2013 at 4 p.m.

Written Exam/CPAT Orientation – Saturday, August 3, 2013     

CPAT

Panel Interview

Eligibility List is established

Background Investigation

Fire Chief Interview (subject to change)

State Agility Testing Including Acrophobia/Claustrophobia test

Conditional Offer of Employment

Psychological Exam

Medical Exam

Pension Board Approval

Merit Commission Approval

Appointment to Academy