Trial by fire for Noblesville intern training in Westfield

Submitted by Westfield Fire Department

Meet Rachel Anderson, a senior from Noblesville, who has begun an unpaid internship with the Westfield Fire Department.

This school year, Anderson is exploring firefighting as a career path. She’s spending two to three days each week shadowing different divisions, getting a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to keep a community safe.

From helping plan and execute emergency responses at major events like Colts Camp and the LIV Golf Tournament, to learning the ropes of EMS and firefighting alongside the current recruit class, she is soaking it all in. She’s also working with the Fire Marshal’s office, inspecting businesses to ensure they meet building codes.

“It’s been eye-opening to see all the work that goes into community safety,” Anderson said.

Her internship runs through the school year, and she said she is thrilled to take on roles like playing a victim in training drills and learning about fire cause and origin investigations. Growing up with a firefighter dad, she’s always been drawn to the fire service.

“It’s a great way to serve the community,” Anderson said, “and running into burning buildings is pretty cool, too!”

If you are interested in becoming an intern with the Westfield Fire Department, contact your school advisor for more information.