Photo: CAFMA Citizen’s Academy graduates gather with firefighters after a live fire demonstration
The Central Arizona Fire and Medical Authority (CAFMA) proudly celebrates the successful completion of its inaugural Citizen’s Academy, a six-week program designed to give community members an inside look at the operations, people, and purpose behind CAFMA’s all-hazards emergency response.
Held Wednesday evenings from March 25 through April 29, the 17 graduates engaged in a comprehensive experience hosted at the CAFMA Administration Building, Station 59, and the Central Arizona Regional Training Academy (CARTA). Sessions explored CAFMA’s core functions, including emergency medical services, fire prevention, training, technical rescue, hazardous materials, and wildland operations.
Photo: CAFMA Citizen’s Academy participants observe a full-scale technical rescue, extrication, and drone demonstration at the Central Arizona Regional Training Academy (CARTA) in Prescott Valley
Highlights included station and apparatus tours, technical rescue and extrication demonstrations, and a live car fire demonstration. All graduates earned Stop the Bleed certification, equipping them with lifesaving skills to respond in emergency situations, and also received a voucher for a free CAFMA CPR, AED, and First Aid course.
CAFMA’s Academy gave community members the opportunity to experience the program together. Richard and Carolyn Smith, a local couple who participated, shared their perspective: “This experience has been outstanding. I learned so much and that gave me an enhanced respect for the amazing job CAFMA does for our community. Every presenter was knowledgeable and personable. There was plenty of time for questions and discussion. Good job!”
“This program is about connection, transparency, and empowering our community,” said Kathy Goodman, CAFMA Community Relations Manager. “We want participants to leave not only with a better understanding of what we do and why, but with the confidence to act in an emergency and share that knowledge with others.”
Fire Chief John Feddema emphasized the value of community engagement through programs like the Citizen’s Academy. “When our community understands the depth and complexity of our work, it strengthens trust and partnership,” Feddema said. “This academy gives participants a firsthand look at the dedication of our personnel and the critical services we provide every day.”
CAFMA sincerely thanks its Academy graduates for their engagement and curiosity throughout the six-week program, as well as the presenters and staff who made it possible. Their expertise and commitment made the experience meaningful for everyone involved.
CAFMA plans to host one Citizen’s Academy each year in the spring. Community members interested in participating are encouraged to watch for future announcements on CAFMA’s website, www.cazfire.gov, and social media accounts, @centralazfire.
