Atlanta officials announce partnership with high schools for firefighter training program

In a vibrant session at Atlanta City Hall on May 12, 2025, the Public Safety Legal Administration Committee gathered to discuss significant advancements in community safety and youth engagement. The atmosphere was charged with optimism as council members expressed gratitude for ongoing initiatives aimed at enhancing public safety and fostering local talent.

Council member Byron D. Amos opened the meeting with heartfelt thanks to Fire Chief and his team for their unwavering service. He highlighted the excitement surrounding the construction of Fire Station 30, which promises to be a landmark on Cleveland Avenue, featuring a community room and slides that have already captured the imagination of local residents. “This will probably be the tallest building on Cleveland Avenue,” Amos noted, reflecting the pride and anticipation felt by the community.

A key focus of the meeting was the newly established partnership between the Atlanta Fire Department and local high schools, particularly South Atlanta and Carver High Schools. This initiative aims to train high school students to become firefighters, addressing a critical gap in recruitment and providing students with a pathway to stable careers. Amos shared his enthusiasm for the program, noting that students are already preparing to enroll. “This is a way to build some more ‘you’s’—people who can step into a lane that I myself didn’t have the opportunity to when I was in high school,” he remarked.

The committee also discussed the importance of creating entry-level positions within the fire department that do not require certifications, allowing more community members to engage with public safety roles. Amos emphasized the potential for these jobs to serve as a stepping stone for social mobility, stating, “The best way to bring some social mobility to anybody is a city job.”

As the meeting progressed, the conversation shifted to the morale of firefighters and the ongoing efforts to update the department’s fleet. Chief Hampton reported that morale is currently “through the roof,” thanks to improved training facilities and a collaborative environment between police and fire recruits. The committee expressed appreciation for the recent investments in equipment and the commitment to maintaining a consistent replacement plan for aging vehicles.

The discussion also touched on the historical significance of Fire Station 16, with plans for renovations that honor its legacy as the first integrated fire station in Atlanta. Council member Michael Julian Bond urged for community conversations to ensure that the history of the site is respected while delivering modern facilities.

As the meeting concluded, the committee members reiterated their commitment to supporting the fire department and the community. The collaborative spirit and shared vision for a safer, more engaged Atlanta resonated throughout the session, leaving attendees hopeful for the future of public safety in the city.