Events
College Breaks Ground on Advanced Fire and Rescue Training Complex
WENDELL, N.C. (September 10, 2024) – Recognizing the heroic work of first responders, Wake Tech is leading the way to ensure that firefighters from across the Triangle and beyond are well-trained for when the next crisis hits.
The college broke ground Tuesday on a unique $23 million Fire and Rescue Training Center at Wake Tech East, its newest location in Wendell. The center will be used for advanced firefighting techniques and rescue scenarios in mid- to high-rise buildings, hazardous materials training and vehicle extrications.
It will be the first training facility of its kind in the region.
"As our nation prepares to honor the commitment and sacrifice of 9/11 first responders, we remember the 343 firefighters who sacrificed their lives on that tragic day and resolve anew to ensure that those who risk their lives have the very best preparation possible," said Wake Tech President Dr. Scott Ralls. "Wake Tech has a particular focus on realistic training, with the latest tools and technologies in simulated work environments. This unique new facility offers all that and will equip public safety personnel with the resources they need for the critical work they do."
First responders from across Wake County attended the groundbreaking ceremony, including Knightdale Fire Chief Loren Cone, Wendell Fire Chief Brian Staples, Zebulon Fire Chief Chris Perry, Hopkins Fire Chief Chris Ward and Wake New Hope Chief Ronnie Mizell. Wake County Fire Services Director Darrell Alford was also there to celebrate the start of construction.
The Fire and Rescue Training Complex will have several unique training features:
- Six-story live fire training tower
This facility will offer firefighters advanced training in realistic mid-rise and simulated high-rise fire scenarios. It will also provide opportunities for training in ventilation, sprinkler control, fire department standpipe operations, apparatus placement, fireground hydraulics, ground ladders and victim search/removal.
- Five-story rescue tower
The rescue tower will greatly enhance Wake Tech's ability to conduct confined-space, high-angle, rope rescue, victim management/removal and machinery rescue in commercial and residential settings. The facility will have a fire sprinkler lab, a fire department standpipe, industrial ladders, a simulated elevator shaft, confined space tubing and a mezzanine designed for technical rope rescue training. Fire rescue personnel will have multiple options for rappelling and rigging on every floor and the roof.
- Hazardous materials and vehicle extrication ditch
In this unique training space, a concrete ditch will be utilized to perform training in dry and flooded scenarios. A large training pad will allow first responders to train on passenger and commercial vehicle extrication. It will also provide adequate space for technical training in hazardous material recon, operations and decontamination.
- Liquid petroleum training pad
This area will allow firefighters to fight simulated vehicle fires, various tank fires, meter base fires and grill fires. Liquid petroleum training also offers many opportunities for crucial hose and nozzle training, including foam application.
- Fire engine pump drafting pit
The drafting pit will provide the needed training space for pump operator training, including hydraulics, drafting, pump service testing and fire pump scenario.
"The center is the first in our region with two towers – for both live fire and rescue training," said Wake Tech Public Safety Provost Dr. Jamie Wicker, "and, as such, it will attract firefighters and other first responders from across North Carolina who have not had access to training at this level until now. We're proud to honor our commitment to preparing them for the vital roles they play in keeping us safe."
Wake Tech trains new firefighters from across the Triangle at the Wake County Fire Academy, a partnership with Wake County. The 33-week program includes certifications in firefighting, hazardous materials, incident command system and rapid intervention, as well as the EMT basic certification course.
The new Fire and Rescue Training Center will offer advanced training for new firefighters as well as seasoned professionals to strengthen their skills. The center is scheduled to open in 2026.
For information about the Fire and Rescue Training Center and other offerings at Wake Tech East, visit waketech.edu/east. For more information about the Wake County Fire Academy, visit fireservices.waketech.edu.
