Recruit Academy Overview 

The Franklin Fire Department’s Recruit Academy is designed for those with no prior firefighting experience. The program provides the foundational training needed to begin a career in the fire service, combining hands-on skills, classroom instruction, and physical conditioning.

Program Details

•  20 weeks, Monday–Friday
•  40 hours per week
•  Franklin Fire Department Training Center, 419 Century Court
•  Taught primarily by Franklin Fire Department instructors
•  Includes firefighting and Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) training

What to Expect

Recruits can expect training that prepares them for the mental and physical demands of a challenging and rewarding career in the fire service.

Training is rigorous and demanding. Success requires commitment, discipline, teamwork, and the ability to perform under physically and mentally stressful conditions.

Physical Demands

The Recruit Academy includes regular fitness training, drill ground activities, and hands-on skills instruction. Recruits can expect to:

• Participate in daily physical training
• Wear heavy protective equipment and gear
• Lift, carry, and move substantial weight
• Work in hot, confined, and challenging environments
• Demonstrate coordination, endurance, and strength

Academic Expectations

In addition to physical demands, the Recruit Academy is academically rigorous. Recruits are expected to successfully complete classroom instruction, written examinations, and skills evaluations based on state and departmental standards.

Commitment and Performance

Successful recruits demonstrate a strong work ethic, accountability, and the ability to balance physical training with academic requirements. Those who are prepared to commit fully to the demands of the Recruit Academy are best positioned to succeed.

Lateral Firefighters

Lateral hires who are already certified firefighters complete a shorter, in-house training and skills check-off tailored to their prior experience and certifications.