Columbus, Ohio - The Ohio Department of CommerceDivision of State Fire Marshal's (SFM's)Ohio Fire Academy celebrated its most recent graduating class of EMTs during a ceremony today at SFM's location in Reynoldsburg.

The 27 graduates successfully completed the rigorous six-week, 166-hour training program, showcasing dedication and determination to join the ranks of Ohio's firefighters and EMTs.

This class of graduates represents a diverse group from across the Buckeye State and beyond. Of the 27 graduates, 24 represent various communities throughout Ohio, and three are from Indiana. A complete list of graduates and their hometowns is available here.

"We are proud of these graduates who will take the many lessons they have learned at the Academy back to the communities in which they serve," said State Fire Marshal Kevin Reardon. "Their training at the Ohio Fire Academy has helped to equip them not only with the technical skills they need to serve as EMTs, but also the values of courage and compassion that will help save and change lives for years to come."

Graduate Kameryn Cline, of Celina, Ohio, is a fourth-generation first responder. She said she was inspired to join the EMT class after watching her father and grandfather lead by example over the years.

"Growing up around the fire department and seeing my dad and grandpa work really made me see how hard they work and how rewarding the job really is," she said. "I'm planning to come back in February for the Fire Academy."

Mark Jackson is originally from England but now calls Sunbury, Ohio home. After graduating the EMT class, he plans to return for the Fire Academy.

"My father- and brother-in-law are both firefighters and paramedics, and I was just struggling to find something I really enjoyed and they pushed towards this and I love it," he said. "I applied and I have loved the past six weeks.

These graduates will now join the ranks of first responders in their communities.

The graduation ceremony was livestreamed on the State Fire Marshal's Facebook page here.

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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.

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