The Central Arizona Fire and Medical Authority Celebrates Graduation of First Lateral Recruit Academy Class

Eight lateral firefighters graduated from the Central Arizona Fire and Medical Authority (CAFMA) Lateral Recruit Academy on Thursday, October 29, 2026, officially joining the organization during a ceremony at the Town of Prescott Valley Public Library Meeting Room.

Emceed by CAFMA Training Chief Rob Zazueta, the ceremony celebrated the recruits’ completion of intense training through the CAFMA Lateral Recruit Academy. The Central Arizona Honor Guard began the event by posting the colors, followed by the playing of “America the Beautiful,” honoring the traditions of the Fire Service.

Fire Chief John Feddema and CAFMA Board Clerk Gayle Pickett both delivered opening remarks welcoming the new firefighters. Each graduate was then pinned with their badge by a family member or loved one, marking an important milestone in their careers. Following the pinning, Chief Feddema administered the Oath of Office.

On This Day in History — 1881

Olev Siinmaa, Estonian-Swedish architect (died 1948) Estonian 🔗

Recruit Ethan Church received the Top Recruit Award in recognition of his exceptional leadership and commitment throughout the academy.

CAFMA recognized the Training Team and Recruit Training Officers (RTOs) for their leadership and dedication in preparing the lateral recruits to transition into their new roles. The Authority also thanked its professional staff for the behind-the-scenes work that supported the academy and graduation ceremony, as well as the Town of Prescott Valley for helping create a distinguished experience for the recruits and their families.

“It is a privilege to welcome these eight experienced firefighters to our organization,” said Chief Feddema. “Over the past few weeks, they have learned about our communities and organizational culture while working together as a cohesive team. We look forward to the experience and knowledge they bring to CAFMA and the contributions they will make in the service of our communities.”

Congratulations to the graduates of the first-ever CAFMA Lateral Academy:

Ethan Church
Albert Cornejo
Stewart Cox
Matthew Denkinger
Brian Harrison
Jacob Loaiza
Garrett Sites
James Tomasick

ABOUT THE CENTRAL ARIZONA FIRE AND MEDICAL AUTHORITY

The Central Arizona Fire and Medical Authority (CAFMA) provides emergency services, all-hazards response, and community safety education across 369 square miles of Yavapai County, Arizona, including the towns of Prescott Valley, Chino Valley, Dewey-Humboldt, parts of Paulden, and surrounding areas of Prescott. Headquartered in Prescott Valley, CAFMA is dedicated to protecting life and property through prevention and response while fostering strong partnerships with the communities it serves. Learn more at cazfire.gov.