Fire Commissioner Laura Kavanagh has launched the FDNY recruitment campaign “All Heroes Welcome” as reported by the FDNY on May 14, 2024.
The campaign aims to increase diversity within the department and features FDNY firefighters promoting the benefits of joining the FDNY.
These benefits include flexible schedules, generous city benefits, union representation, competitive salaries, retirement, and pension benefits.
The filing period for the FDNY Firefighter open competitive exam begins on June 24, 2024.
The written exam will be held later in the year, followed by a physical exam. This is the first firefighter exam offered in seven years.
Mayor Eric Adams stated: “For the first time in nearly a decade, New Yorkers will have an opportunity to join the ranks of New York’s Bravest, and we are hoping to attract the best talent this city has to offer, while also building a workforce that mirrors the city that we love.”
The “All Heroes Welcome” campaign features 10 current FDNY firefighters, including brothers Manuel Zuaznabar (Ladder 123) and Emmanuel Zuaznabar (Ladder 110), and sisters Ashley Laroche (Engine 236) and Shanah Laroche (Engine 309).
Each member has a unique background and shares a dedication to serving New York City.
Commissioner Laura Kavanagh said: “We are hoping to attract a pool of applicants that looks like our city: people from all neighborhoods and backgrounds, who share one goal in common: a desire to serve the public and save lives.”
The campaign will be available in 10 languages and will be advertised on the transit system, online, on social media, on the radio, and in community newspapers.
The FDNY will also conduct citywide outreach at career fairs, colleges, and houses of worship.
The department offers resources such as free exam prep sessions for the written portion and workout sessions to prepare for the candidate physical ability test.
Currently, 28% of FDNY firefighters are minorities, with 16.5% identifying as Hispanic, 10% as Black, 2.5% as Asian, and less than one percent as Native American.
Additionally, 1.6% of firefighters are female.
The most recent class to graduate from the Fire Academy in March was more than 50% minority, with 30% Hispanic, 16% Black, 3% Asian American, and 1.5% Native American.
3.3% of the graduates were women.
The campaign’s goal is to build a workforce that mirrors the diverse population of New York City.
Commissioner Kavanagh emphasized the transformative impact of joining the FDNY, stating: “Becoming part of the FDNY will change your life. Learn about us, get excited about us, and become part of the FDNY family.”
Interested applicants can sign up for the firefighter open competitive exam at https://firefighter.joinfdny.com or email recruitment@fdny.nyc.gov for information on registration.
The open filing period runs from June 24 to August 9, 2024.
The FDNY’s “All Heroes Welcome” campaign reflects an effort to enhance diversity within the department while providing ample support for potential candidates.
The initiative highlights the department’s commitment to representing the city’s diverse population and offers an inclusive opportunity for individuals from various backgrounds to serve their community.
The outreach efforts, including career fairs and exam preparation resources, aim to ensure that interested applicants are well-prepared for the rigorous selection process.
As the first firefighter exam in seven years, this recruitment drive presents a significant opportunity for New Yorkers to join the FDNY and contribute to the safety and well-being of the city.
The campaign’s success will depend on its ability to attract a broad range of candidates, ultimately leading to a more diverse and representative FDNY.
