Ohio Fire Academy celebrates newest class of firefighter graduates
The Ohio Department of Commerce Division of State Fire Marshal’s (SFM's) Ohio Fire Academy celebrates its second firefighter class of 2026.
The 34 individuals who make up Firefighter Class 244 were recognized at a graduation ceremony recently at SFM’s campus in Reynoldsburg. The graduates represent communities across Ohio and Pennsylvania. To view a complete list of graduates and their hometowns, click here.
This 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, 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.”
The graduation ceremony was livestreamed on the State Fire Marshal’s Facebook page.