From the Fire Academy to the Firehouse: Celebrating the third class of 2025 probationary firefighters to join FDNY

After walking across the stage during a graduation ceremony on Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026, at the Christian Cultural Center in Brooklyn, the latest class of FDNY probationary firefighters to join the FDNY is being assigned to firehouses throughout New York City.

“When you walk out of those doors today, the world will look at you differently. When a New Yorker sees the FDNY patch on your shoulder, they don’t see a stranger. They see hope. They see the person who is going to make the worst day of their life OK again,” FDNY Commissioner Lillian Bonsignore said during her remarks to the graduates. “You are the one to go in when everyone else is coming out. You are the one to hold the line between this city and chaos. Carry that badge with the humility of a servant and the heart of a lion.”

The firefighters successfully completed an 18-week training program at the FDNY Fire Academy. The probies trained in all aspects of firefighting, including fire suppression and medical response, hazardous materials, collapse and confined space rescues, auto extrication, building inspections and procedures for engine and ladder operations.

“This job will challenge you physically, mentally and emotionally,” Chief of Department John Esposito said. “But you will never face it by yourself. You are now part of the team—part of a family that stands together no matter what. Congratulations on earning your place. We are looking forward to the great things you will do.”

The Department’s Fire Academy, also known as “The Rock,” is a state-of-the-art training facility located on Manhattan’s Randall’s Island. It was dedicated in 1975 and officially opened in 1976. It serves as the primary training hub for FDNY fire operations.

Learn more about life at FDNY.

The third class of 2025 probationary firefighters graduated at a ceremony on Feb. 11, 2026.