The Calgary Fire Department (CFD) has welcomed 43 new graduates who have become a part of the CFD team. 

On April 4, a graduation ceremony was held for new recruits who had completed their training. This is the first of three graduating classes expected in 2025.  

“It makes me feel incredibly proud of them. Of course, they’ve, they’ve been through a rigorous training program and selection process prior to that,” said Calgary Fire Chief Steve Dongworth.  

“I think, for any of us here, it reminds us of our graduations. So, it’s an important day, just as it was for us years ago.” 

With friends and family attending the ceremony for the new graduates, each recruit was granted a hat and badge to commemorate becoming new additions to the CFD and starting their careers. 

As new, probationary firefighters, each graduate will be assigned to one of Calgary’s fire stations to complete an 18-month probationary period monitored by CFD members while they continue their training.  

The new graduates will help the Calgary Fire Department increase capacity and reach international firefighting standards for personnel on ladder trucks. CFD’s ladder trucks often have two firefighters, with the push to have them get to four per truck.

“They [ladder trucks] used to be staffed with two, we’re moving them up to four person, which is kind of an industry standard,” said Dongworth. 

The increase in staffing will improve CFD and its service to the community. While also providing an increase in safety for firefighters when working together on duty.

City council support 

Calgary city council has also ensured proper funding for the CFD when it comes to additional reinforcements.  

“You should also know that this council and administration understand the support that you require,” said Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek.

“We have pushed to ensure that your department is properly funded so that you can perform your critical roles, knowing that you have the equipment and colleagues that are required to respond to any emergency and to save lives.” 

An additional $4.7 million was included for the Calgary fire department, specifically to recruit to ensure city fire crews could meet the international ladder truck standard. It’s a part of an overall recruitment push that began in 2022.

During the 13 weeks of training, recruits were trained in live fire exercises, vehicle extrication, emergency medical responder training and public and education awareness for community fire prevention and safety to prepare for their new role as firefighters after graduation. 

The graduates have been participating in recruitment training. When starting their probationary period as firefighters, they will begin on-the-job training.  

“We do some online learning, we do some on-the-job training, where they actually take the trucks out to the training academy,” said Dongworth. 

When looking for new recruits, it goes beyond the physical abilities needed.  

“I think we look for character, we look at people who are motivated to serve their community,” said Dongworth.  

“Obviously, we look for people who are fit enough, but most of all, we just look for people who have good values, a good sense of community service and are proud to take on the role.”