The Metro Fire Recruit Academy is an intense, fast paced, and highly disciplined 15 week academy based on both fundamental and advanced firefighting skills and knowledge. In addition the MFRA prepares fire recruits from local agencies with the ability to respond to and mitigate emergencies of almost any nature (excluding law enforcement) such as, hazardous materials incidents, swift water rescue, advanced rescue training, and auto extrication.

 The MFRA provides a demanding environment beginning at 0700 hrs with one the most challenging and effective fitness programs in the nation. Academics make up a large portion of academy time but the majority of effort is expended on the drill ground learning and performing fundamental fire ground functions.

Recruits are expected to arrive at the academy with a high level of fitness including the ability to run an eight minute mile pace. While the academy day is only eight hours a recruit spends numerous hours off site studying and readying their uniform and gear for periodic inspections.

The MFRA's core values "Honor, Courage, and Devotion to Duty" describe the foundation of the fire service and are instilled in each recruit as the guide by which they rely upon to take all actions and make sound decisions. The fire service is based on a para-military model and the academy is no exception. Recruits are expected to understand and follow a "chain of command" and adhere to strict protocols in order to function and survive the academy environment . Expected recruit behavior is defined and scrutinized on a daily basis.

The reward for successfully completing the demanding curriculum of the MFRA culminates in a memorable badge pinning ceremony deeply rooted in fire fighter tradition. At that time the "Fire Recruit" officially earns the title "Firefighter" and embarks upon one of the most respected and rewarding professions known to humanity.

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