08/18/2026
Unfortunately, some of us have forgotten where we came from and what it felt like to be the new guy walking into this job for the first time.
Lately, Iβve seen videos from these so-called βacademies,β and it makes me wonder: Are we actually teaching recruits, or are we just playing the tough-guy role?
We owe the next generation better.
A fire academy should build firefighters, not egos. Teach them. Challenge them. Hold them accountable. Motivate them. Mentor them. Give them the tools to succeed.
Because if we donβt teach the new generation what this job is truly about, how the hell do we expect the brotherhood and sisterhood to continue?
To every officer, instructor, and firefighter involved in a new hire academy: cut the bu****it and lead. These recruits took a chance on your department. They showed up because they want to serve. Give them a reason to be proud of where they landed.
Lose the act. Do the work. Protect the oath not the D-bags.
-STTK-