Training
The goal of the Training Division is to establish and maintain training programs
that meet mandated Federal and State certifications, develop and deliver programs
that address regional training needs, ensure training is relevant and current to
sustain an accurate Records Management System, and provide development training
opportunities for firefighters and officers.
The Role of the Chief of Training
The Training Chief plans, organizes, coordinates, interacts with other divisions,
conducts and schedules training for Department of Fire and Life Safety personnel
in emergency medical services, fire suppression, hazardous materials, driver training,
and rescue. The Training Chief also assists in coordinating and administering a
variety of tests including entry level testing for Firefighter/Paramedics and promotional
exams; assists with career development programs; and implements training needs identified
in the quality assurance/improvement program.
Chief Taylor
Staff Battalion Chief Kent O. Taylor began his career with the Richmond Department
of Fire and Emergency Services in August of 1993 and served as a firefighter in
Engine Company 14 and as a Hazardous Materials Technician in Rescue Company 3. He
was promoted to Lieutenant in 2003 and assigned to the Fire Training Academy, where
the majority of his time was spent as the Lead Recruit Instructor. In all, he was
involved with the training of 5 classes and 59 recruits. He later served as Lieutenant
of Quint Company 11 and Captain of both Quint Companies 11 and 13. While assigned
to the Operations Division, he continued to assist with department training and
served on several committees.
Staff Battalion Chief Taylor returned to the Fire Training Academy in 2008 as
Captain of Training and was subsequently promoted to his current rank in 2009. He
manages all aspects of training including Recruit Training, In-service Training,
and Career Development. He has been instrumental in the development and maintenance
of several programs such as the Richmond Metro Regional High Rise Training, Department
High Rise Training, Mayday Training in conjunction with new policies and procedures,
Daily Company Training, the Customer Academy, the Refresher Academy, and the Public
Safety Program at Franklin Military School
