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The Catawba Valley Community College Fire Academy recently held its graduation ceremonies.

In the college’s auditorium, graduates honored included Nicholas Arteaga (Hickory Fire Department); Kayce Bailey (Claremont Fire Department); Casey Caywood (Hickory Fire Department); Brandan Daniels (Hickory Fire Department); Corbin Hefner (Maiden Rescue Squad); Landon Reed (Lovelady Fire & Rescue); Jenna Robinson (Hickory Fire Department); Michael Watkins (St. Stephens Fire Department); Alec Weaver (Grace Chapel Fire Department); and Connor White (Sherrills Ford/Terrell Fire and Rescue).

Representatives from each local fire department attended the ceremony to show support for graduates and their families. The evening included a cadet comment from battalion commander Casey Caywood, along with a message from special guest Captain Michael Hullett, the North Carolina Firefighter of the Year for 2023.

Hullett, who served the Charlotte region for 30 years, spoke about the camaraderie, traditions and legacy of those who risk their lives as firefighters.

“At the core,” he said, “what we do is rooted in a deep sense of duty and passion. Our ‘why’ is engrained in every fiber of our being. As rookies, you now get to uncover your ‘why’ and let that ‘why’ be your guiding light.”

At the conclusion of the ceremony, director Steven Rhodarmer awarded the diplomas. Special awards included the Merit Award, presented to Caywood; the GPA Award, presented to Jenna Robinson; and the Physical Fitness Award, presented to Kayce Bailey.

“We were a group of misfits who started this journey awkward and unsure,” Caywood said, “but we came together as a team. We pushed each other, and through our experience, we became a family. I believe the fire academy formed the foundation of our careers and showed us what we are capable of.”

To learn more about the CVCC Fire Academy and related programs at the college, e-mail Rhodarmer at [email protected].

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