Probationary Firefighters Graduate from Queens College
Close to 300 probationary firefighters graduated from the FDNY Fire Academy during a ceremony at Queens College at the end of December following more than four months of training on Randall’s Island.
Graduation Ceremony
FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker presided over the graduation of 289 firefighters at the Queens College Colden Auditorium on Reeves Avenue in Flushing on Friday, Dec. 27.
Class Profile
The final graduating class of 2024, which included four women and 28 veterans from the Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, and Marine Corps, will now be assigned to firehouses around the city after completing 18 weeks of training on Randall’s Island.
Training
The academy graduates trained in all aspects of firefighting during their time in the FDNY Fire Academy, including fire suppression and medical response, hazardous materials, collapse and confined space rescues, auto extrication, building inspections, and procedures for engine and ladder operations.
Words of Wisdom
FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker congratulated the new recruits on their graduation from the FDNY Fire Academy, stating that their first years as probationary firefighters will act as the foundation for their careers in the FDNY.
“Public service is among the most noble careers, and you all are among an elite and incredible group who choose to put your lives at risk in service of others,” Tucker told the graduating class. “As probationary firefighters, you have your entire careers ahead of you. These first years out of the academy will form the foundation of your time as a New York City firefighter. The skills you learned will be with you for the rest of your life.”
Commitment to Service
FDNY Chief of Department John Esposito told the new recruits that they were committing themselves to serving others, stating that a career as a firefighter is more than a job.
“Never stop striving to be better. Train harder, learn more, and take pride in the uniform you wear and the incredible traditions you represent,” Esposito told the graduating class.
Women in the FDNY
The FDNY said last March that it was aiming to boost the number of women in the department, with women accounting for approximately 1% of the estimated 11,000 firefighters in the FDNY. In June 2024, the FDNY said there were 169 women serving as uniformed firefighters in the FDNY. The department has not yet confirmed how many women are currently serving as firefighters across the city, but the four recent women graduates represent just 1.38% of the recent graduating class containing 289 probationary firefighters.
Conclusion
The recent graduating class of probationary firefighters has completed their training and is ready to begin their careers in the FDNY. With a strong foundation in firefighting skills and a commitment to serving others, they are well-prepared to face the challenges of their new roles.
FAQs
Q: How many probationary firefighters graduated from the FDNY Fire Academy?
A: 289 firefighters graduated from the FDNY Fire Academy.
Q: What is the total number of firefighters in the FDNY?
A: The FDNY has an estimated 11,000 firefighters.
Q: What is the goal of the FDNY to increase the number of women in the department?
A: The FDNY aims to increase the number of women in the department, with women currently accounting for approximately 1% of the total number of firefighters.
Q: How many women are currently serving as uniformed firefighters in the FDNY?
A: As of June 2024, there are 169 women serving as uniformed firefighters in the FDNY.
