With a large cohort of aging veteran firefighters, the Anchorage Fire Department needs a new generation of firefighters who are willing to serve.
“Currently there are about 70 retirement-eligible firefighters in AFD’s ranks,” Anchorage Fire Chief Douglas Schrage stated in a Feb. 11 notice. “Our department is stacked with members reaching their 20, 25, even 30 + year milestone.”
As these firefighters age out, the force must be replenished, he noted.
“To maintain a healthy firefighter workforce, we need to find quality applicants to rise and fill their boots,” Schrage observed. “By adding in an extra 2026 academy – and using the applicant pool to hire for the following planned academy – we can stay ahead of the retirements potentially coming along in the next few years.”
Across the country, fire departments are dealing with similar challenges as the force continues to age with fewer young people willing to serve. A substantial portion of current firefighters are Baby Boomers over age 55, which threatens to deplete the force if there are not significant replacements in the coming years.
The Anchorage Fire Department is accepting applications for a second 2026 Academy and the 2027 Academy. The current application period ends on May 15.
Applicants must have a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent, be at least 18 years old (by time of hire) and have a valid Alaska driver’s license with acceptable driving record by time of hire.
Prior firefighting or EMT experience is beneficial but not required, as these skills will be taught during the academy training.
To learn more about the position and apply, click here.
