Alex Banks, a member of the Jessamine County Fire District’s Junior Firefighter Program, holds his Certificate of Achievement after receiving the 2025 Kentucky Junior Firefighter “Weekend Leadership Award.” Banks was honored for demonstrating outstanding skill, service, and leadership during the statewide training weekend. (Photo submitted)

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By: Casey Roberts

casey.roberts@bluegrassnewmedia.com

From an early age, Alex Banks knew he wanted to serve. What began as childhood visits to local fire stations evolved into a full-fledged commitment to the Jessamine County Fire District’s Junior Firefighter Program — and now, that dedication is earning him recognition across the state.

Banks, a standout participant in the program, recently received the Weekend Leadership Award at the 2025 Kentucky State Fire School. The honor came as a surprise to the young firefighter, who says he simply did what he believed was right.

“It felt very rewarding,” Banks said. “I didn’t expect to get it. I just did what I thought was needed. I hope I represented my teams in Jessamine County well.”

Banks attended his second State Fire School this year, and the experience brought new challenges — including a leadership role. Selected to serve as a Battalion Chief over a team of junior firefighters, he was tasked not only with managing training exercises, but ensuring the safety and well-being of his peers.

“It was much more exciting, challenging, and rewarding than my first year,” Banks said. “I had to learn to lead and make sure no one was left behind. You go in with a buddy, and you come out with that same buddy — that’s the rule.”

Banks said the experience strengthened his understanding of teamwork and perseverance. “No matter how bad you want to quit, you have to keep going. You’ll feel so much better in the long run if you do.”

The Jessamine County Fire District says Banks is helping lead a cultural shift within the department. For the 17-year-old, that means showing up early, staying late, respecting leadership, and taking pride in the little things. But he’s also bringing a creative spark to the job — using video editing and social media to highlight the work of local firefighters.

“I try to shine a light on what we do,” Banks said. “By posting videos with music and effects, we can make the fire service more visible in the community.”

Looking ahead, Banks says firefighting is a career he’s fully committed to. He credits his cousin, former Lexington Fire Department District Chief Wade Miracle, as a key influence.

“I’ve looked up to him since day one,” he said. “He’s the kind of guy I want to be. Everybody respects him.”

Banks sees himself one day stepping into a Public Information Officer role, combining his love for the fire service with his interest in photography and media. But first, he plans to earn his “back seat time” — the hands-on experience every firefighter needs to truly understand the job.

Asked what advice he’d give to other teens considering a junior firefighter program, Banks emphasized the importance of openness, hard work, and emotional honesty.

“You’re going to see some tough things in this line of work. You’ve got to be able to talk to someone about it,” he said. “Be willing to learn, stay in shape, and don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty.”

Banks expressed gratitude for the many people who have helped him along the way, including Chiefs Danny Eades, Steve Proffitt, and Jason Walton, as well as the Wilmore Fire Department and various instructors. Most of all, he thanked his family.

“They were beside me no matter what,” he said. “Through the hard times and the best times.”

As Banks continues to grow into his calling, the Jessamine County Fire District says he’s already leaving a lasting impact — one shift, one lesson, and one leadership moment at a time.