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RESEARCH PRODUCT

Initial training and professionalization process of volunteer firefighters

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The aim of this research is to contribute to a better understanding of the initial training of volunteer firefighters, with a particular focus on the process of appropriation of this training, the process of professionalization and the obstacles encountered by this population.Using a mixed-methods approach, 330 volunteer firefighters still in service were interviewed by questionnaire as part of a longitudinal survey, while 42 individuals who had ended their involvement during their initial training were consulted by means of semi-structured interviews. Sixteen direct observation sessions supplemented the data collection.Firstly, several types of appropriation of initial training have been highlighted, depending on the interaction of six factors internal and external to the learner. The meaning attributed to the training and the perception of the trainer appear to be the most determining factors. In addition, a form of implicit selection is carried out during this initial training, in particular through obstacles that hinder the progress of certain profiles that are not very well represented in the field, who gradually appear to be demotivated and disinvested, and end up breaking off their commitment. Furthermore, the results showed that initial training plays a less important role than expected in the process of professionalisation, in which the investment of individuals appears essential.