Local fire captain recognized as instructor of the year at Ohio awards ceremony
The Youngstown Fire Department as well as firefighters-in-training at the Choffin Career and Technical Center are celebrating the accomplishments of their colleague and teacher.
Capt. Courtney Kelly received the 2024 Ohio Fire Service Instructor of the Year award at Ohio Fire Service Hall of Fame and Fire Awards ceremony this week.
She’s a firefighter with YFD and teaches up-and-coming firefighters at CCTC, part of the Youngstown CIty School District.
Despite the demanding schedule she works as a captain in the fire department, Kelly dedicates 12 hours per week as an instructor for the fire academy at CCTC.
The program’s facilities and resources have been expanded since Kelly’s joined the staff, which led to increased enrollment, improved graduation rate, and successful employment outcomes for her students in fire service.
Department of Commerce director Sherry Maxfield, State Fire Marshal Kevin Reardon, director of Public Safety Andy Wilson and executive director of the Ohio Division of EMS Robert Wagoner presented honorees with awards during the ceremony.
“The tremendous valor, dedication and bravery displayed by members of Ohio’s fire service and EMS professionals are unparalleled,” Reardon said. “Each day, they face wide range of challenges with resilience and a commitment to saving lives, often under the most perilous conditions. This awards ceremony provides a unique opportunity to shine a light on these remarkable individuals who, through their actions, exemplify the highest ideals of public service.”