March 20, 2025
Atlanta Fire Rescue Foundation and Atlanta Technical College
Partner for Fire Service Youth Program
Atlanta, GA – March 26, 2025 – The Atlanta Fire Rescue Foundation (AFRF) and Atlanta Technical College (ATC) are proud to announce the launch of the Junior Recruit Program – a new partnership that will provide high school students with an unprecedented opportunity to jumpstart their careers in fire service. Through this collaboration, students enrolled in the Junior Recruit Program will earn college credit, obtain national certifications, and receive hands-on training alongside Atlanta Fire Rescue Department (AFRD) firefighters.
Dr. Victoria Seals, President of Atlanta Technical College, stated, “We are thrilled to partner with the Atlanta Fire Rescue Foundation to launch the Junior Recruit Program. This initiative not only provides high school students with a unique pathway into the fire service but also underscores our commitment to supporting the next generation of skilled professionals in our community.”
“In a city that’s firmly committed to the prosperity of its youth, our Foundation is proud to announce partnership with the Atlanta Technical College (ATC) as evidence of alignment with that commitment,” said Taos Wynn, President and CEO, Atlanta Fire Rescue Foundation. “We strongly believe that the future success of Atlanta Fire Rescue, begins in our own backyard, exposing and equipping high school students across Atlanta Public Schools with the mindset and skills required for a productive career in fire services. Thank you, President Victoria Seals and the entire ATC team, as well as Chief Roderick M. Smith and the Atlanta Fire Rescue Department for helping us achieve the goal of investing in the next generation of Atlanta’s Bravest.”
“Firefighters are the backbone of our communities,” states Council Member Antonio Lewis representing District 12, “They are among the bravest and most compassionate people I’ve ever known. I’m so thankful for this partnership between the Atlanta Fire Rescue Foundation and Atlanta Technical College. The Junior Recruit Program is a pathway to purpose, a career launchpad, and a direct investment in our young people and our city.”
In alignment with Mayor Andre Dickens’ “Year of Youth” initiative, the partnership between the Atlanta Fire Rescue Foundation and Atlanta Technical College amplifies efforts throughout the City to equip young people with valuable career pathways and workforce development opportunities. Through current enrollment, ten Atlanta Public Schools are presently represented with students participating in the Junior Recruit Program.
Developed collaboratively between AFRF, Fire Chief Roderick M. Smith and the Atlanta Fire Rescue Department, the Junior Recruit Program is designed to expose high school students to the fire service profession through structured training and real-world experiences. The program integrates CPAT (Candidate Physical Ability Test) preparation, mentorship from seasoned firefighters, and practical, hands-on instruction that aligns with national fire service standards.
For more information about the Junior Recruit Program, visit atlfrf.org/education or contact the Atlanta Fire Rescue Foundation at info@atlfrf.org.
Atlanta Technical College Atlanta Fire Rescue Foundation
1560 Metropolitan Parkway, SW 680 Murphy Ave SW, Ste. 4229
Atlanta, GA 30310 Atlanta GA, 30310
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Dr. Victoria Seals, President Mr. Taos Wynn President and CEO
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