At 20 years old, Matt Harrison may be one of the youngest – as well as one of the newest – members of the Lowell Area Fire Department. He joined the department last year as a paid on-call firefighter and also helps fill daytime shifts.
“I’ve always searched for something where I could make a difference,” Harrison says.
He found that something at the fire department where he says not only is the job meaningful, but the work atmosphere is unlike anything he’s experienced elsewhere. “No other place I’ve worked at has had such a family mentality as the (fire department) does,” he explains.
To join the department, Harrison had to complete a rigorous training academy held in Plainfield. The comprehensive program covered topics such as firefighting basics, emotional wellness and CPR and included both hands-on and written assessments.
Competitive Pool Player Heading to Vegas
In addition to working at the fire department, Harrison helps people out with various side work and odd jobs. While his work has been ever-changing, one thing in life has remained constant: a love of pool.
Harrison has been playing pool competitively since he was 12 years old and has participated in a variety of leagues and tournaments. Next month, he’ll head to Las Vegas to compete in a championship competition for those in the 21 and younger age bracket.
At his age, Harrison has a lifetime in front of him pursue the things he loves. For now, he is happy to have landed in the Lowell Area Fire Department which offers flexibility to explore other interests as well.
“I love to help people,” Harrison says, and he wants the public to know that if they need help, he and the other members of the fire department will be there for them.
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