The Ohio Department of Commerce Division of State Fire Marshal’s Ohio Fire Academy celebrated its second firefighter class of 2026 Friday, recognizing 34 graduates during a ceremony at the academy’s campus in Reynoldsburg.
The graduates, who represent communities across Ohio and Pennsylvania, successfully completed the academy’s academically and physically demanding 10-week, 468-hour firefighter training program. Among those recognized was William P. Simpson of St. Paris, a member of Firefighter Class 244.
The Ohio Fire Academy’s firefighter program is the only one in the state that allows students to earn eight additional certifications alongside their Ohio Firefighter I and II certifications, providing graduates with the credentials needed to begin careers in the fire service.
In addition to learning fundamental firefighting techniques, students receive instruction in firefighter safety, emergency vehicle operation, apparatus pumping, leadership, teamwork, professionalism, and other essential job functions designed to prepare them for emergency response.
State Fire Marshal Kevin Reardon congratulated the graduates on completing the rigorous training.
“Each of these graduates has shown exceptional commitment throughout this demanding training. The skills they’ve gained at the Ohio Fire Academy have prepared them to serve Ohioans with professionalism and purpose. As they move forward, I urge them to stay dedicated, keep learning, and stay rooted in service to their communities.”
The Ohio Fire Academy offers firefighter, fire safety, emergency response, and professional development training for current and future members of Ohio’s fire service. An updated course catalog for 2027 is expected to be released in the coming weeks.
