How has the new training center impacted firefighter recruitment in Owensboro?

The new training center has proven to be a major draw for potential firefighters, as it enables local candidates to complete their entire training regimen without having to travel away from their families, which was previously required when training at the Fire Academy of Kentucky in Greenville.

When will the first recruit class to fully utilize the new Owensboro Fire Training Center graduate?

The first recruit class to fully use the new Walter Freeman Fire Training Center will graduate on Saturday, November 18th, 2025, and begin their first shifts the following week.

Home / Education / Owensboro's New Fire Training Center Revolutionizes Firefighter Preparation

Owensboro's New Fire Training Center Revolutionizes Firefighter Preparation

Q: What are the key features of the Owensboro Fire Department's new training center?

The new Walter Freeman Fire Training Center in Owensboro features a classroom building designed to function as a fully operational fire station, allowing recruits to undergo immersive 24-hour shift simulations and training exercises.

13 Nov

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Summary

New training center offers immersive 24-hour shift simulation for recruits
Facility attracts local candidates who don't want to travel for training
Recruits can now train in Owensboro instead of traveling to Greenville

Owensboro's New Fire Training Center Revolutionizes Firefighter Preparation

As of November 13th, 2025, the Owensboro Fire Department (OFD) is celebrating the transformative impact of its new Walter Freeman Fire Training Center. The state-of-the-art facility, which opened earlier this year, is revolutionizing the training experience for firefighter recruits.

The centerpiece of the new training center is a classroom building designed to function as a fully operational fire station. This allows recruits to undergo immersive 24-hour shift simulations, running through real-time emergency calls and training exercises. "It gave them a feel for what shift life is like," says Battalion Chief Corey Gant, who oversees the department's training program.

The new center has also proven to be a major draw for potential firefighters. Previously, recruits had to travel to the Fire Academy of Kentucky in Greenville for training, which was an inconvenience for those with families in Owensboro. "It was an intrusion on your life," Gant explains. Now, candidates can complete their entire training regimen right in their own community.

The first recruit class to fully utilize the new facility is set to graduate this Saturday, November 18th, and begin their first shifts next week. Gant is confident that the enhanced training opportunities will pay dividends in the quality of the city's future firefighters.

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