48-Year-Old Firefighter Achieves PhD After 30 Years of Service
Waddell's journey began in 1992 when he joined the United States Air Force in the Fire Protection division and served as a firefighter until 2022. Despite his active role as a firefighter, he embarked on a higher education journey to obtain his Bachelor's, Master's, and ultimately, his PhD.
AKACHI NOEL 
In a remarkable feat of determination and academic pursuit, 48-year-old firefighter Carey D. Waddell has successfully earned a Doctorate Degree (PhD) from Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, Arizona, United States, following 30 years of dedicated service in fire protection.
Waddell's journey began in 1992 when he joined the United States Air Force in the Fire Protection division and served as a firefighter until 2022. Despite his active role as a firefighter, he embarked on a higher education journey to obtain his Bachelor's, Master's, and ultimately, his PhD.
READ ALSO: WAEC gets new head, Dr Amos Dangnut
His academic journey commenced in 2009 when he enrolled in Ashford University, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Organizational Management with a minor in Public Administration, graduating in 2012. Shortly after completing his Bachelor's degree, Waddell pursued his Master's degree at Grand Canyon University.
Just two years after earning his Bachelor's degree, Waddell achieved a Master of Science Degree in Leadership with a specialization in Disaster Preparedness and Executive Fire Leadership. He also pursued various professional studies to enhance his skills in defending his community against fire disasters.
RECOMMENDED FOR YOU: Young African Mathematician Achieves PhD at 25, Sets New Record
During this period, Waddell undertook several academic courses, including the Fire Emergency Services Flight Supt Course and the United States Emergency Operations Center Director Course.In 2019, Carey D. Waddell fulfilled his academic journey by earning a PhD from Grand Canyon University, specializing in Leadership and Organizational Development.
INCASE YOU MISSED: Unhappy NECO Candidate Requests Remark of Results After Scoring 7 Cs
Celebrating this significant achievement on LinkedIn, he expressed his determination and motivation, saying, "When the chips are stacked against you, you have to remember past accomplishments. I earned a Doctoral of Education degree with an emphasis in Leadership and Organizational Development in 2019. I'm ready for my next journey to the top in a new career. Won't stop... can't stop."
Furthermore, Waddell announced his voluntary retirement from the fire service after three decades of dedicated service, rising through the ranks to become a Fire Chief.
