PIO Podcast (01/08/26): Captain Scott Abraham & Recruit Braeden Weeks
PIO Podcast (01/08/26): Captain Scott Abraham & Recruit Braeden Weeks  
Podcast: San Bernardino County Fire: PIO Podcast
Published On: Fri Jan 09 2026
Description: Host Captain Shawn Millerick is back in the field and in the studio to inform, educate and entertain with Episode 22 of the PIO Podcast.Episode HighlightsTraining Division spotlight with Capt. Scott AbrahamShawn catches up with Scott for a behind-the-scenes look at what’s new in Training: digitizing task books and textbooks, tightening up certification tracking, coordinating state fire training, and building a more organized department training calendar. Scott also breaks down how task books standardize skills across positions and apparatus—and shares what’s coming next, from driver/operator needs (including water tender shortages) to a new Vector Solutions training rollout.Pipes & Drums: tradition, recruitment, and big eventsScott switches gears as the Pipe Major for the San Bernardino County Fire Pipes & Drums, sharing the band’s history (founded in 2012), how the department and union band support each other, and why they’re actively recruiting—especially new pipers. He explains what it takes to get started (practice chanter, short daily practice), what’s required to audition, how practices ramp up ahead of St. Patrick’s Day, and what it’s like honoring fallen firefighters at the massive Colorado memorial where hundreds of musicians come together.Tower 20 check-in with Recruit BraedenNext up, the crew pulls Braeden out of Tower 20 for a real look at academy life: week 12, rapid intervention crew training, and what it’s like coming into the fire service as a career change at 30. He talks about the steep learning curve without a prior fire academy, what he’s enjoyed most (forcible entry and wildland), and how his skateboarding background taught him resilience—pushing through frustration until skills “click.” He also shares practical advice for future applicants: be teachable, put in the work, and build real relationships in the firehouse.“This Day in History” with Ai RyanThe episode keeps things light with "This Day in History" fun facts about the Mona Lisa (and a few jokes),  Ai Ryan visits the studio after “the real Ryan” moves to Planning, and a musical closeout featuring the 935 band.