Chicago Fire Department Welcomes 70 New Graduates

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Fire Department Commissioner Annette Nance-Holt on Dec. 5 marked the graduation of 55 Firefighter EMTs and 15 Fire Paramedics from the Chicago Fire Academy. The ceremony was held at Navy Pier, where families, city officials, and department members gathered to honor the new class.

“This is a day of celebration and transformation for our communities that are gaining new, highly dedicated and brave first responders,” Johnson said. “These women and men are joining a family in the Chicago Fire Department who will uplift them and show up for them every day. The people of Chicago stand with our first responders and never take them for granted. As Mayor, I’m honored to serve beside today’s honorees as we work to build safer, vibrant communities.”

“These candidates stand here today because they chose a life built on service,” Nance-Holt said. “Joining the Chicago Fire Department means stepping forward when others step back. The dedication these new members bring ensures our communities are safer and better supported than they were yesterday.”

The graduates completed a six-month training program at the Robert Quinn Fire Academy, earning emergency medical technician certification along with firefighter or fire paramedic training recognized by Illinois state standards. The curriculum included basic firefighting, confined space operations, rescue practices, coordination with hospitals, mental health clinicians, and dispatchers.

Paramedics obtained their licenses through accredited institutions before joining the department. Following graduation, all new members will be assigned to firehouses across the city through departmental needs and lottery selection. Paramedics will begin their district assignments with CFD Emergency Medical Services later this month.