Chattanooga, TN – A class of 32 cadets graduated from the Chattanooga Fire Department’s six-month fire academy, marking the successful completion of extensive training to become the department’s newest members.
The group not only completed Emergency Medical Technician certification but also received instruction on a wide range of fire service skills from experienced, veteran firefighters. Training covered fire department operations, fire attack, fire growth and development, suppression, and search and rescue techniques.
Cadets also mastered specialized skills including hazardous materials response, vehicle extrication, rope rescues, ventilation, and survival tactics—preparing them to save a fellow firefighter in distress or escape dangerous situations themselves.
This academy was the first to utilize the department’s new training tower, a state-of-the-art facility designed to simulate real-life emergency conditions. The tower allowed instructors to stage diverse scenarios, such as live burns, smoke-filled rooms with zero visibility, and multi-story victim rescues, providing the cadets with realistic and challenging experiences.
The graduation ceremony took place at Bayside Baptist Church, with members of Brothers United, the Chattanooga Chapter of the International Association of Black Professional Firefighters, and others joining in the celebration. The department congratulated the Fire Academy Class of 2025 for their hard work and dedication.