Photo Provided The Ohio State Fire Marshal’s Ohio Fire Academy holds graduation ceremonies for new firefighters and EMTs on Friday.

REYNOLDSBURG, Ohio — The Ohio Department of Commerce Division of State Fire Marshal’s Ohio Fire Academy on Friday announced the graduation of its summer class of 2023, consisting of 29 firefighter and 18 EMT cadets.

The graduates successfully completed the rigorous training program, showcasing dedication and determination to join the ranks of Ohio’s firefighters and EMTs. The two commencement ceremonies took place Friday at the Division of State Fire Marshal, at 8895 E. Main St., Reynoldsburg. The EMT graduation was held at 10 a.m., followed by the firefighter graduation at 1 p.m.

“We are proud of these graduates who will go on to faithfully serve their communities,” State Fire Marshal Kevin Reardon said. “Their training at the Ohio Fire Academy equips them not only with the technical skills required but also with the values of courage and compassion.”

The graduates of the Ohio Fire Academy’s Class of 2023 represent a diverse group, hailing from different corners of the state and bringing with them a variety of experiences and backgrounds. Locally, Jayden D. Keeder of Wintersville, John David Wright Jr. of Mingo Junction and Nicholas Fencl of Wheeling are among the graduates.

EMT graduate Audrey Farmer, who will be joining the Basil Joint Fire Department in Baltimore, Ohio, envisions her future career path.

“I plan on becoming a medic and being a full-time firefighter/paramedic hoping to be a flight medic,” she said. “I envision this being my full-time job helping people on their worst day, hoping to make it just a little bit better.”

According to Jason Conaway from Saint Marys Volunteer Fire Department in West Virginia, the training was a challenge.

“It feels great to have completed the program here at the OFA. It was lightning fast-paced and more challenging than I had originally anticipated.”

Hoping to make a difference with his new training, Conaway said, “Tragedy can strike at any time, and preserving life is no small thing. When the day comes where I find myself in a position to help, I hope to do so until those in need are in more capable hands.”

In all, 47 new firefighters and EMTs now join the ranks of first responders in their communities.

The graduation ceremonies were livestreamed on the State Fire Marshal’s Facebook page: facebook.com/OhioFireMarshal