A Behind-the-Scenes Journey into the Heart of Charlotte Fire
Published on July 11, 2025
Participants listen as a Charlotte Fire member explains the tools and equipment stored on a heavy rescue apparatus during week two of the Citizen Fire Academy.
Charlotte Fire’s Citizen's Fire Academy Returns September 10
For nine weeks, a select group of Charlotte residents will get an unforgettable, up-close look at the heart of their fire department. Charlotte Fire’s Citizen’s Fire Academy returns September 10, offering hands-on training, behind-the-scenes access, and a powerful introduction to the men and women who serve the community every day.
Launched as a vision by Charlotte Fire Chief Reginald Johnson, the program is designed to deepen public understanding of modern fire and emergency services while building lasting relationships between firefighters and the people they protect.
“This academy is more than education,” said Chief Johnson. “It’s about connection. It’s about building trust and inspiring the next generation of advocates and leaders in public safety.”
With the ladder extended high into the sky, Citizen Fire Academy participants gather at the Training Academy to learn about Charlotte Fire’s specialized apparatus and capabilities.
From learning CPR to observing specialized aircraft rescue training at Charlotte Douglas International Airport, participants will experience the full scope of Charlotte Fire’s work, including EMS, hazardous materials, special rescues, and more. They’ll also tour firehouses, learn how 911 calls are processed, and try out real fire equipment and tools, all under the guidance of Charlotte’s finest.
Hands-on and all smiles. A Citizen Fire Academy participant tries out a rescue tool during the extrication demonstration at Charlotte Fire’s Training Academy.
The free eight-week program begins Sept. 10 and meets each Thursday from 6 to 8 p.m., culminating in a graduation ceremony on October 29. Each week highlights a different area of Charlotte Fire operations:
Week-by-Week Overview
Week 1 | September 10
Program Introduction and Charlotte Fire History
Begin the academy with an introduction to Charlotte Fire, its history and what it takes to become a Charlotte firefighter.
Week 2 | September 17
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Emergency Management
Learn how to prepare for emergencies and why every household should have a personal and family emergency plan.
Week 3 | September 24
Dive Team, Drone Team and Mutual Aid
Explore Charlotte Fire’s regional response capabilities and the partnerships that help agencies work together during complex emergencies.
Week 4 | October 1
Special Operations
Learn about the specialized teams, equipment and capabilities that support Charlotte Fire’s emergency response operations.
Week 5 | October 8
Charlotte Fire Training Academy
Tour the academy grounds and get a behind-the-scenes look at where Charlotte firefighters develop and maintain the skills needed to serve the community.
Week 6 | October 15
Charlotte Fire Support Services
Meet the teams and organizations that support Charlotte Fire and learn about the important role they play within the department and throughout the community.
Week 7 | October 22
Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting
Learn how Charlotte Fire prepares for and responds to aircraft emergencies at Charlotte Douglas International Airport. Participants will also see the specialized equipment and apparatus used during these incidents.
Week 8 | October 29
Graduation Ceremony
Celebrate the completion of the academy with Fire Chief Reginald Johnson and your classmates. Dinner will be served, and graduates will receive certificates of completion.
Citizen Fire Academy participants take a closer look at equipment used during high-risk responses, part of a week dedicated to tools, tactics, and teamwork.
The program is open to Charlotte residents age 18 and older. Participants are chosen with an emphasis on diverse community representation, from business leaders to educators to faith and neighborhood leaders. The goal is to include people who can help share what they’ve learned with others.
Beyond the education, the Citizen’s Fire Academy is about building bonds.
A Citizen Fire Academy participant experiences the power of a fire hose while fellow classmates cheer her on. This moment capped off a night of hands-on learning.
There is no cost to participate, and all materials are provided. Graduates receive a certificate of completion during a final celebration with Chief Johnson and the command staff.