Time to Catch Up With Former Explorer Nicholas Welch

On this first Throwback Thursday of 2020, we’re catching up with former Proby of the Month Ladder 123 Firefighter Nicholas Welch. Since he was featured on Join FDNY in 2013, Welch has become a part of the firehouse he remembers most fondly as a child growing up in Bedford Stuyvesant.

“I grew up watching these Firefighters respond to emergencies. Now, working alongside them, I learn more each day about this job and its valued traditions,” he said. “Becoming a New York City Firefighter has been a great highlight and serving in the community that helped raise me feels like I’ve come full circle.”

As a former FDNY Explorer, he also values that he gained exposure to our Department at a young age. Through that program, teens have the opportunity to gain valuable insight into the training our first responders practice day-to-day. To date, 11 former Explorers are serving in our fire suppression.

“As a young man, I would dream of the days where I would be able to go to fires and help my community. As a Firefighter, I’ve taken the initiative and put pride into the work that I do,” he added. “My advice to those who are looking to get on this job is once you know what you want, go for it, get involved, take charge and be a leader. Dreams do come true.”