May 13, 2025
Fire Office Academy: The Company Officer applications open June 1 at 8 a.m.
Fire Office Academy (FOA): The Company Officer is an intense but invaluable experience designed to cultivate the next generation of fire service leaders. Developed by the Officers Section, the academy uses a blended learning environment to provide both classroom knowledge and hands-on experience essential for success as a company officer.
As of today, 116 officers from across South Carolina have graduated from FOA. The program’s impact continues to excel as alumni share the lessons learned from FOA with their peers.
Engineer Gracie Landry of North Spartanburg Fire District, a recent graduate of FOA 24-01, described the program as transformational.
“This program will change your entire mindset and even your heart in some areas. It ignited a whole new level of my passion for the craft that I didn't know existed. This program isn't just important to the future of the fire service, it is the future of the fire service,” Gracie wrote in her post-program survey.
Lieutenant Brandon Stroud of the Anderson Fire Department, a graduate of FOA 22-01, emphasized the program’s unique value.
“Far exceeded my expectations. It’s more than just a “class”, it’s a lifelong experience. I was surprised from beginning to end. From the selection process, to the content and layout of the class, to the specific lessons learned, to the camaraderie that was built. Not only did I learn some new things to incorporate, I built relationships with people that I can now carry with me forever. This is a special program that needs to remain special and selective. Granted, all officers need to go through this program, but I don’t believe all will get the message and the purpose of the program. I don’t consider myself elite by any means, but I believe this program is elite.”
Burton Fire District Lieutenant Joseph Peluso graduated FOA 22-01. He highlights the invaluable information that FOA provides.
“This was an incredible experience and I hope that this program thrives so that more people can have the experience that I did. It teaches you the real world application of being a fire officer that isn't taught in your traditional IFSAC fire officer classes.”
While FOA extends numerous learning opportunities for students, more importantly attending FOA allows you to network with alumni from every part of South Carolina.
Many of the departments represented by FOA alumni include:
We are looking forward to the upcoming class of Fire Office Academy: The Company Officer. It is important to note that the selection process is highly competitive. Be sure to proofread your application before submitting.
Don’t miss this life-changing opportunity!
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