ABQ Times

Albuquerque Fire Rescue (AFR) has announced the graduation of its 103rd Cadet Class. Sixteen cadets have completed a 19-week academy and will now join the department as sworn firefighters. They will begin their roles as probationary Firefighter 2nd Class, undergoing 11 months of intensive on-the-job training and monthly evaluations to achieve the rank of Firefighter 1st Class.

In 2023, AFR responded to 104,000 calls for service. The addition of these new firefighters is expected to bolster staffing levels and integrate them into some of the busiest crews in the nation.

The department also recognized AFR Crews for their life-saving efforts during a house fire on January 2, 2025. An AFR dispatcher informed responding units about an occupant trapped inside a residence. Engine 9 confirmed an active fire with an urgent rescue profile and initiated a hose line deployment into the building. Rescue 5 conducted a primary search, locating and rescuing an elderly female from her bedroom where she was trapped due to extreme heat and smoke. The woman was extracted through a window by Rescue 5, having sustained moderate smoke inhalation and minor injuries to her extremities. She received immediate care from Rescue 5 before being transported to UNM Hospital.

The successful rescue operation was coordinated by AFR Dispatch, executed under the command presence of Engine 9, and carried out by the actions of Rescue 5. These crews are being honored for their exceptional performance in saving a life.

"The new firefighters of the 103rd have shown they have what it takes to uphold AFR’s high standard of emergency response," stated Mayor Tim Keller. "They’ve accepted the challenge to become the latest in a long line of community heroes."

"Today we celebrate the courage and accomplishments of these 16 cadets by taking the oath as firefighters with Albuquerque Fire Rescue," said Fire Chief Emily Jaramillo. "As they step into their roles, they embody the spirit of service and commitment that our Albuquerque residents rely on."