Ohio Fire Academy Celebrates Newest Class of EMT Graduates

COLUMBUS, Ohio - The Ohio Department of Commerce Division of State Fire Marshal's (SFM's) Ohio Fire Academy celebrated the graduation of its EMT class 139 earlier today at a ceremony held at SFM's campus in Reynoldsburg.

The 13 graduates represent communities throughout Ohio, Indiana and New York. A complete list of graduates and their hometowns is available here.

These graduates successfully completed the Academy's rigorous seven-week, 166-hour training program, showcasing dedication and determination to join the ranks of Ohio's EMTs.

This marks the Ohio Fire Academy's third graduating class of 2026. Last year, a total of 82 individuals graduated from four EMT classes held at the academy.

"Each of these graduates has demonstrated remarkable drive and a strong sense of purpose throughout their training," said State Fire Marshal Kevin Reardon. "Their dedication to mastering these skills reflects a true commitment to serving their communities, wherever they may go next. They have earned this moment, and we look forward to the impact they will make as EMTs throughout Ohio and across the country."

These 13 graduates will now join the ranks of first responders in their communities, equipped with the qualifications they need to help protect Ohioans.

Aiden Flynn from Pickerington, Ohio said he is ready to use his training to help his community.

"I plan to pursue a position with a department such as Columbus Fire," Flynn said. "Now I have both my Fire Card and EMS certification from the Ohio Fire Academy, so I'm prepared and ready to move forward in my career as a first responder."

And Jack Hale from Dublin, Ohio is just beginning his career as a first responder and looking forward to putting the training to work.

"The training was awesome - challenging, fair, and absolutely essential. You can see why the State Fire Marshal puts so much into this program; the job is demanding, so the schooling must be demanding," Hale said. "I'm committed to serving my community and continuing to better myself throughout my life."

A photos of the class is attached.

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About the Division of State Fire Marshal
The Division of State Fire Marshal is part of the Ohio Department of Commerce. The department is Ohio's chief regulatory agency, focused on promoting prosperity and protecting what matters most to Ohioans. We ensure businesses follow the laws that help them create jobs and keep Ohioans safe. To learn more about what we do, visit our website at com.ohio.gov.