PINEVILLE, WV (WVNS) — In the event of an emergency, Pineville Volunteer Firefighters drop whatever they’re doing to gear up and spring into action.

20 year old Taylor Brooks would drop her study guides to go with the team and assist on site. But after completing a 120 hour course, she can really take the heat.

“Being certified in Fire 1, I can go into a structure fire and fight fire,” Brooks added.

Yet, the certification wasn’t her only accomplishment this month.

While Brooks spent the past year studying for the West Virginia Firefighter 1 Course, she also studied nursing school and worked a part time job. Her hard work paid off when she opened that special email, telling her she passed her Licensed Practical Nursing Board exams.

“I cried,” Brooks recalled. “I knew after I got that email, that whole year was over. I could put it behind me and start doing what I love.”

Brooks followed family tradition by joining the Pineville Volunteer Fire Department, as her brother and father also dedicate their time to the team. She chose her career paths for a more meaningful reason.

“There’s not a day that I don’t want to go out and help somebody,” Brooks said. “I always said If I can make a difference in one person’s life I’m good. “

It is for that reason Chief of Pineville Volunteer Fire Department, Mike Goode, said she will be a valuable asset to Wyoming County.

“Most firemen want to help people. That’s why they’re here,” Goode said. “Taylor is no exception, but she’s taken it a step further. I admire her for it, and I think she’ll be a very important part of this community for years to come.”