Fire Rescue Students Burned by Stephenville Airport Shemozzle

(VOCM News)

The declining fortunes of the Stephenville airport have resulted in another blow to the region.

The Marine Institute says its technical certificate in fire rescue program has been pushed back to January of 2026 for students accepted for the upcoming academic year at a location yet to be announced.

The institute usually offers the course at the Stephenville airport but had to make adjustments to the program when electricity to the facility was cut by Newfoundland Power in June due to “outstanding account issues,” and big plans by proponent Carl Dymond failed to materialize.

Utility workers cut power to Stephenville’s airport in June. (Photo courtesy Lenny Tiller)

Because the disconnection has passed the two-month mark, the Marine Institute has had to remove all its assets and equipment from the airport property. But they say they remain committed to delivering the fire rescue program in Newfoundland and Labrador and are looking for another location.

The Marine Institute says students have been notified of the changes and have been given the opportunity to confirm their attendance, allowing them time to plan accordingly.