News

Fire academy sends nine cadets into service

Fire Academy graduates, front row, from left, Michael Peace, Brody Davis, Josue Gomez and Dylan Bundrick; and back row, Octaveus Askew, Kristopher Miller, Parker Summey, Jerry Villars and Pablo Saavedra. [PHOTO BY RICH KEEN]

By Bill Moss, Published: December 4, 2025

The Henderson County Fire Academy at Blue Ridge Community College graduated nine cadets on Dec. 4, bolstering the firefighting workforce of Western North Carolina.

Over three months, the cadets learned basic skills and competencies of the firefighting profession and earned the North Carolina Office of the State Fire Marshal certification.

During the graduation ceremony, Executive Vice President of Programs Connie Wolfe praised graduates for entering a profession that is essential for public health and safety. 

“After witnessing the realities of last year’s storm, our community understands more than ever how essential skilled, dedicated first responders truly are,” she said. “Your work will change lives. And in moments of crisis, you will be the reassurance that hope is on the way.”

The annual Fire Academy is a partnership between Blue Ridge Community College and the Henderson County Fire and Rescue Association. In addition to campus resources, area fire and rescue agencies provide equipment, personnel and facilities that ensure students experience numerous realistic training scenarios. Upon completion of the program, academy graduates are prepared and qualified to begin entry-level careers in fire departments statewide.

The graduation event featured introductory remarks by Dr. Wolfe and Dean of Public Safety Training Christopher Williams; congratulatory remarks by Fire and Rescue Coordinator Casey Silvers; a keynote address from Fletcher Fire and Rescue Chief Robert Griffin; and a message from class representative Kristopher Miller. Graduates were celebrated by public safety and fire department representatives, families, and college leaders.

Registration is now open for the spring 2026 Henderson County Fire Academy, which begins March 9, and runs through June 18. Additionally, Blue Ridge offers a fire protection technology associate degree, a certificate or diploma in fire protection, as well as numerous fire and rescue certification programs. Visit www.blueridge.edu/fire to learn more, view course schedules and enroll online.