By Carolyn Roy, carolyn@natchitochestimes.com
Sha’Keithra Paige believes that her job as a firefighter will be an example to her siblings that she hopes will motivate them to be their best. Paige has been hired as a firefighter by the Natchitoches Fire Dept. and Chief John Wynn says she will go to work immediately after he receives confirmation she passed her fit-for-duty physical.
That confirmation should come within a week. She will be assigned to a shift as firefighter recruit. Recruits undergo a 14-week training session. As for living quarters, Wynn said the fire station was remodeled a few years ago to include individual rooms.
Wynn said he sees Paige’s hiring as a positive and fresh step for the department. “We’re glad to have her aboard,” Wynn said. Paige doesn’t believe being a female firefighter will have its disadvantages.
She realizes she is breaking a barrier but looks forward to living up to expectations.
According to the Office of State Examiner website, to be hired, an applicant must be at least 18, have a high school diploma or high school equivalency certificate, pass a physical and have a valid driver’s license.
