During the 26 weeks in the academy, recruits receive initial  training in at least four disciplines which include Firefighting, Rescue, Haz-Mat, and Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) training. Recruits receive the following certifications: NC State Firefighter I, II, Haz-Mat Operations plus, Rescue Technician, and EMT - Defibrillation.

After successfully completing recruit training, each recruit is assigned to a fire company.  As a rookie Firefighter, they will have plenty of opportunity to put their training to the test under the direction of their Fire Captain and senior firefighters. During the next several months and years to come, they will receive invaluable firefighting experience to assist them in serving the population of Charlotte.