Meet Firefighter/EMT Robert Blackwood

Where are you stationed?
I'm at Station 2 (Grand Canyon Drive) on the 'C' shift.

What is something you enjoy about the territory you serve?
There is a mix of residential and commercial, as well as assisted living homes. It gives you a wide variety of calls and different experiences to be a part of.

What has been your most memorable day on the job so far?
My first day on shift. There’s a lot of excitement and anticipation starting something new, and adjusting to being in the stations.

What would you like others to know about your position as a firefighter/EMT?
Beyond going on calls, there’s always things to be learning. Talking and listening to senior members of your crew can teach you a lot from some of the experiences they’ve encountered along their way, both on and off the job.

What do you do when you’re not working?
I love spending time with my family, my wife, and 2-year-old son. We love spending time in the outdoors, going up to our family cabin in Door County, fishing, or going up north hunting. Between all that, I also install concrete landscape curbing on the side.

What advice would you give someone looking to join the Madison Fire Department?
Put all you can into the testing process. There are a lot of resources available to help you prepare. Attend open houses/practice sessions put on by MFD. If at first you don’t get hired, keep applying. It’s all worth it in the end!