A group of dedicated Key West High School students graduated this morning from the Key West Fire Department’s Firefighters Academy. Proud families, members of the Key West Fire Department, and City officials were on hand during the ceremony to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of these students who have invested two years of training for their future careers as first responders. The ceremony was held at the Alex Vega Key West Firehouse Museum.

These students earned certifications in Firefighter I, Emergency Medical Responder, and Hazmat Awareness. The graduations marks the completion of physical training, over 191 hours of Firefighter I training, and more than 50 hours of Emergency Medical Responder training. Part of that training put them in the face of real-life firefighting challenges that tested their courage and determination.

Capt. Dereck Berger, who oversees the Academy, praised the group for the tenacity it requires to finish the academy, noting that they would do their grueling physical training in the early hours before heading off to a full day of high school.

“I am proud of your dedication, sacrifice, and perseverance,” Capt. Berger told the group. “As we have told you throughout the year, firefighting is one of the most honorable and rewarding professions you can choose. Whether you pursue this career or another path, this academy has prepared you for success. Carry forward the discipline, courage, and teamwork you have gained here, and let it guide you wherever life takes you.”

Fire Chief Alan Averette congratulated the students and said he hopes they pursue a career in firefighting and EMS. He pointed out that many of the current members of the department began as graduates of the academy.

The two-year fire academy trains future firefighters while they’re attending their final two years of high school and provides them, upon completion, the equivalent training of a Certified Firefighter I, which puts them halfway through the training required to become a Key West Firefighter.