Richmond Fire Training Academy recruits historic 17 female firefighters in new class

The Richmond City Public Safety Standing Committee meeting on April 22, 2025, highlighted significant advancements in the city's fire training academy, particularly in gender diversity and specialized training programs.

The fire department announced a milestone achievement with its current recruit class, where 17 out of 29 recruits are female, representing over half of the class. This is a notable increase compared to the national average, where only 5% of career firefighters are women. Once this class graduates, Richmond's percentage of female firefighters will exceed 11%, effectively doubling the national figure. This achievement reflects the department's commitment to fostering diversity within its ranks.

In addition to recruitment efforts, the meeting discussed ongoing training initiatives aimed at enhancing the skills of firefighters. The academy has implemented rigorous training programs, including water rescue and swift water capabilities, particularly relevant due to the James River's popularity and associated risks. The department has also focused on self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) training to improve accountability and safety during firefighting operations.

Other training highlights included rope rescue techniques and vehicle driving training, ensuring that firefighters are well-prepared for various emergency situations. The Richmond Engine Operator program was also mentioned, which aims to train drivers for rapid and safe responses to incidents.

Overall, the meeting underscored the fire department's dedication to improving both the diversity and competency of its personnel, ensuring a high standard of public safety for the Richmond community.