TROY, N.Y. — The Troy Fire Department welcomed ten new firefighters to its ranks following their graduation from a comprehensive training program, achieving full staffing capacity. Mayor Carmella Mantello announced the milestone, but noted that upcoming retirements in the new year may impact future numbers.
The recent graduates represent a significant investment in public safety, with the city having added four new positions to the department. These additions support overtime costs and enhance emergency medical technician (EMT) services. “Graduating ten firefighters is a huge step forward,” Mantello stated. “Our firefighters are also EMTs, and they attend Hudson Valley courses throughout the year.”
Enhanced Training and Community Impact
According to Mantello, the training program transitioned in-house a few years back, resulting in improved outcomes for recruits. The camaraderie between instructors and trainees fosters a supportive environment. “You can only imagine the firefighters being trained by their mentors and colleagues,” she commented. “That camaraderie creates a family atmosphere from day one.”
Troy’s fire department is recognized as a model for neighboring communities, particularly in ambulance services. The city’s commitment to its fire department has led other municipalities to send their recruits to Troy’s program. During the graduation ceremony, three additional recruits were honored, who will serve as full-time firefighters in the City of Rensselaer and the City of Saratoga.
“We were one of the first city-run ambulances in the state back in the 1990s, so it’s a significant achievement,” Mantello added. “Other municipalities now look at us as a model.”
Future Developments and Community Support
The mayor highlighted the profound impact that the new graduates will have on the community, sharing a personal connection to the importance of fire rescue services. “My younger son has epilepsy and other special needs,” she explained. “I have had to call 911 several times and have witnessed our firefighters in action — they are second to none.”
In addition to welcoming new recruits, the city is also moving forward with plans for a new firehouse, which is expected to enhance readiness and response capabilities. “The previous design was outdated, and we needed to complete an environmental phase I study,” Mantello said. “We are now in the final design phase, with plans to break ground in 2026 and complete construction by 2027.
Mayor Mantello praised the hard work of the new recruits and emphasized the importance of their service to the community. She expressed optimism about the new firehouse, stating, “It’s going to be huge. Our job here is to ensure long-term investment in the neighborhood and the city, serving as a catalyst for growth.”
The graduation ceremony not only marked a pivotal moment for the new firefighters but also underscored the city’s ongoing efforts to enhance public safety and community well-being.
