Ohio Fire Academy Celebrates Newest Class of Firefighter Graduates

Columbus, Ohio - The Ohio Department of Commerce Division of State Fire Marshal's (SFM's) Ohio Fire Academy celebrated its most recent graduating class of firefighter students during a ceremony today at SFM's campus in Reynoldsburg. The Firefighter Class 239 is comprised of 32 individuals representing communities across Ohio. To view a complete list of graduates and their hometowns, click here.

Graduates successfully completed the academically and physically rigorous 10-week, 468-hour program to join the ranks of Ohio's firefighters. The extensive firefighter training program is the only program in the state where students can earn eight additional certifications in addition to their Firefighter I & II state certifications.

In addition to basic firefighter job skills, students learn essential job functions including professionalism, leadership, teamwork, honor, firefighter safety, emergency vehicle operation, and apparatus pumping.

"We are so proud of these graduates who have shown great commitment and dedication to complete this demanding course," said State Fire Marshal Kevin Reardon. "As they return to their communities, the training they received here at the Ohio Fire Academy will help save and change lives for years to come."

Wyatt Warnock is one of the graduates in Class 239. He has always sought a career in public service and will now return to the Athens Fire Department where he will serve his community.

"All my life I've wanted to find a career where I'm able to help others and I believe the aspect of brotherhood and leadership that comes with the fire service is the perfect job for me. I couldn't imagine myself doing anything else," Warnock said. "I'm looking forward to getting back to show my skills and continue to grow."

Fellow graduate Jacob Durden, of Van Wert, is joining the ranks of Ohio's fire service after spending time in the military.

"I was in the military for a few years and got back into public service after I had a few guys introduce me to the fire department," Durden said. "This program was physically tough, but I would say more mentally challenging to get through the 10 weeks."

The graduation ceremony was livestreamed on the State Fire Marshal's Facebook page here.

Those interested in learning more about the courses offered by the Ohio Fire Academy can view a full course catalog here.

###

About the Division of State Fire Marshal
The Division of State Fire Marshal is part of the Ohio Department of Commerce. The department is Ohio's chief regulatory agency, focused on promoting prosperity and protecting what matters most to Ohioans. We ensure businesses follow the laws that help them create jobs