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Ohio Fire Academy celebrates newest class of firefighter graduates

By Staff Report
Thirty-four graduates from Firefighter Class 244 completed the Ohio Fire Academy’s 10-week, 468-hour program at the Reynoldsburg campus, representing Ohio, including the Mahoning Valley, and Pennsylvania.
Thirty-four graduates from Firefighter Class 244 completed the Ohio Fire Academy’s 10-week, 468-hour program at the Reynoldsburg campus, representing Ohio, including the Mahoning Valley, and Pennsylvania. Courtesy

The Ohio Department of Commerce Division of State Fire Marshal’s (SFM’s) Ohio Fire Academy recently celebratesdits second firefighter class of 2026.

The 34 individuals who make up Firefighter Class 244 were recognized at a graduation ceremony at SFM’s campus in Reynoldsburg. The graduates represent communities across Ohio and Pennsylvania.

Lucas P. Brill of Warren was among those who graduated. To view a complete list of graduates and their hometowns, click here.

The graduating class successfully completed the academically and physically rigorous 10-week, 468-hour program. 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. The graduates are now equipped with the qualifications they need to join the fire service.

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

“Each of these graduates has shown exceptional commitment throughout this demanding training,” said State Fire Marshal Kevin Reardon. “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.”

Christopher Kimball from Reynoldsburg, Ohio who was one of the graduates is looking forward to getting to work right away.

“I want to carry the grit, hard work, and dedication I gained from this class into the Columbus Division of Fire, where I intend to build my entire career,” Kimball said.

And Aidan Deardorff from Lebanon, Ohio said he looks forward to building on what he learned in the course.

“The instructors were excellent—they guided me whenever something wasn’t quite right and showed me how to improve so I’ll know exactly what to do during future responses. I’m hoping to become a full‑time firefighter and eventually take advanced classes throughout my career so I can help as many people as possible.”

Those interested in learning more about the courses offered by the Ohio Fire Academy can view a full course catalog here. An updated catalog with courses available for 2027 will be published in the coming weeks.