ORLANDO, Fla. — The Orlando Fire Department has officially welcomed a dozen new firefighters after they completed training and graduated during a formal ceremony marking the start of their careers in public safety.
The graduates, known as New Hire Class 0126, received their badges and took the oath of office after completing orientation and specialized training required to serve as full-time firefighters for the city.
City officials say the new firefighters will help the department continue to meet the growing demands of a rapidly expanding community.
Several members of Class 0126 will begin their first shift on Saturday, March 14.
A City Investment in Public Safety
Most of the new firefighters came through a recruitment initiative designed to prepare local residents for careers in emergency services, even if they had little or no prior experience in fire or medical response.
Through the program, recruits attend classes at Valencia College where they earn both Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification and Florida Fire Standards certification.
The city covers the cost of their education while participants earn a salary during training, allowing recruits to complete the program without the financial barriers that often accompany professional certification programs.
After completing their coursework and certifications, the recruits join a new hire class and undergo the department’s orientation process before officially becoming Orlando firefighters.
Growing the Department
The Orlando Fire Department says the recruitment initiative is part of a broader effort to expand staffing levels and ensure the city is prepared to respond to the needs of a growing population.
The program focuses on identifying residents who are passionate about serving their community and equipping them with the training needed to succeed in the profession.
The initiative was highlighted during the 2025 State of the City address by Buddy Dyer, who noted the program’s role in strengthening public safety while creating new career opportunities for local residents.
City leaders say the approach allows Orlando to cultivate a workforce that reflects the community it serves.
Beginning Their Careers
For the graduates of Class 0126, the ceremony marks the end of months of training and the beginning of careers dedicated to protecting lives and property across the city.
As newly sworn firefighters, they will now join crews across Orlando’s fire stations, responding to emergencies, providing medical assistance, and supporting the department’s mission of safeguarding the community.
The Orlando Fire Department currently operates multiple stations across the city and responds to thousands of calls each year, ranging from structure fires to medical emergencies and disaster response.
With the addition of Class 0126, officials say the department is better positioned to continue delivering critical emergency services to residents and visitors throughout Orlando.
