The 34 participants in the Spring 2024 Austin Fire Department’s (AFD) Pass the Torch Program have completed the four-month training and will graduate this weekend. Media is invited to cover part or all the event, which is expected to last for approximately 90 minutes.

Pass the Torch Commencement Ceremony for Class 10
Saturday, July 13, 2024 at 10 a.m.
City of Austin Permitting and Development Center
6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive | Austin, Texas 78752
Over the course of the program, Pass the Torch participants earn CPR certification and receive instruction and operate frequently used fire equipment including ladders, hoses, and self-contained breathing apparatus, learn the mechanics of rescuing people from vehicles, practice swift water techniques including how to secure a victim and move in fast-moving water, and ventilation practices that create a safer environment to perform search and rescue efforts during a fire.

The purpose of the program is to provide participants with a preview of the rigors of the AFD Academy and increase awareness about career opportunities in fire service. There are 19 Pass the Torch graduates from this class who applied for the 2024 AFD hiring process and have been invited to move forward.

Austin Fire Department Assistant Chief Thomas Vocke, who provides executive management of the Pass the Torch Program, will be available for on-camera interviews starting at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday. 

RSVP to FirePIO@austintexas.gov to confirm your attendance at the event.  ###