Calumet County – Students in the fire‑technology program at Fox Valley Technical College (FVTC) took their classroom lessons to the rugged limestone cliffs of High Cliff State Park on Saturday. Under the guidance of lead fire instructor Bud Gadow, the trainees practiced rope‑rescue and rappelling skills that are essential for responding to emergencies in difficult terrain.
“Students come out of this program more well‑rounded than any other program in the Midwest,” Gadow said. “They’ve been exposed to problem‑solving circumstances and that’s what makes these firefighters different.” The hands‑on exercise allowed the cadets to apply specialized rescue techniques that mirror real‑world scenarios, from rescuing hikers on steep slopes to accessing confined spaces during structural collapses.
The emphasis on technical rescue training has deep roots in the fire service. Gadow explained that the class originated as a direct response to the September 11 terrorist attacks. “When the catastrophe happened, fire departments across the nation realized they were not trained well enough to deal with such catastrophic events. As a result, the federal government suggested that all fire departments begin to train their personnel in specialized rescue,” he said.
That federal push led to a nationwide shift, and today programs like FVTC’s are at the forefront of preparing the next generation of first responders. The students’ time on the cliffs not only builds physical confidence but also reinforces critical decision‑making under pressure, a skill set that can save lives in both natural and man‑made disasters.
Why technical rescue matters for Wisconsin communities
Wisconsin’s varied landscape – from the Northwoods to the rolling dunes along Lake Michigan – presents unique challenges for emergency responders. Rope‑rescue capabilities enable firefighters to reach victims in remote or hard‑to‑access locations, such as cliffside hiking trails, riverbanks, and industrial sites.
Local fire departments have welcomed the added expertise. Calumet County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Mark Jensen noted, “Having firefighters trained in advanced rope‑rescue techniques strengthens our overall public‑safety response. It means we can act faster and more safely when the unexpected occurs.”
Beyond the immediate safety benefits, the program supports the broader goal of building a resilient, faith‑centered community. Many of the students come from families with deep roots in the region, and the training reinforces values of service, stewardship, and personal responsibility that align with the community’s Christian heritage.
Looking ahead
FVTC plans to expand its technical‑rescue curriculum, incorporating water‑rescue drills and hazardous‑materials scenarios later this year. The college hopes to partner with additional fire agencies across the state, creating a network of well‑trained responders ready to protect Wisconsin’s families and neighborhoods.
As the trainees descended the cliffs and secured their harnesses, they embodied a commitment to protect life and property – a commitment that traces its modern origins to the lessons learned after September 11. Their dedication underscores the importance of investing in practical, hands‑on training that equips local heroes to meet the challenges of today and tomorrow.
Original reporting: FOX 11 WLUK Green Bay (local) — read the source article.
