July 23, 2025

Texas A&M Fire Training School Kicks Off Annual Event

News Summary

The Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service has launched its 96th Annual Fire Training School at Disaster City, drawing over 700 firefighters and first responders. This two-week event includes more than 30 specialized courses aimed at enhancing emergency response skills through practical drills and simulations. The focus on teamwork and real-life scenarios prepares participants for effective responses to emergencies. The training emphasizes continuous learning to improve community safety and adapt methodologies to include underrepresented groups in the fire service.

College Station, Texas – The Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (TEEX) has commenced its 96th Annual Fire Training School at Disaster City, which is expected to attract more than 700 firefighters and first responders from Texas and beyond. This two-week event kicked off recently and features over 30 courses designed to enhance skills across various emergency response scenarios including rescues, hazardous material responses, and fire pump operations.

This year’s training initiative underscores the significance of practical learning and networking among first responders. Participants engage in hands-on drills and simulated emergencies to prepare for real-life situations. Firefighter Lilia Ayala from the Converse Fire Department has attended the TEEX fire trainings for the past six years, highlighting that involvement in dynamic exercises cultivates calmness under pressure during actual emergencies.

TEEX Fire Training School Division Director Chris Angerer pointed out the importance of collaboration among firefighters as they exchange best practices and experiences. The event also features a number of guest instructors renowned for their expertise in the field, contributing to a rich learning environment.

With a total registration count of 954 firefighters and nearly 300 guest instructors, the TEEX fire school offers substantial training opportunities for participants. Many training scenarios have been set up in realistic settings that mimic conditions encountered in actual emergencies, such as the College Station Fire Department’s practical search-and-rescue training conducted at Hurricane Harry’s Dance Hall prior to its demolition.

The training focused on hands-on scenarios to refine skills essential for life-saving responses. Participants engaged in vehicle extrication exercises, emphasizing the importance of effective communication and teamwork. Firefighter Ben Suttey noted that these practical experiences are invaluable compared to theoretical learning alone. Captain Stuart Marrs of the College Station Fire Department reiterated that realistic environments are critical for preparing firefighters for the challenges they will face in emergencies.

In addition, refresher courses, as expressed by Sophia Rivera, a firefighter EMT from Bexar County, are crucial for staying informed about emergency handling protocols. The significance of continuous training is amplified as Texas faces demanding hot temperatures and dry conditions, necessitating well-prepared emergency personnel.

The TEEX fire school not only enhances individual skills but aims to improve overall department capabilities. Chief Gordon Lohmeyer stated that attendees would return to their respective departments better equipped and educated, thus enhancing community safety. The training initiatives also seek to adapt methodologies to cater to diverse backgrounds, ensuring accessibility for all participants, including underrepresented groups such as women in the fire service.

The TEEX event serves as a comprehensive platform for firefighters and emergency responders to gain new insights, skills, and confidence necessary for handling a wide range of emergency situations. As the training continues over the next weeks, it is poised to foster a collective growth of capabilities among departments, learning from shared knowledge and experience.

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Author: STAFF HERE COLLEGE WRITER

The COLLEGE STATION STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECollegeStation.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in College Station, Brazos County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Brazos Valley Fair & Rodeo, Chilifest, and Aggie Muster. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bryan-College Station Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Brazos Valley, plus leading businesses in education, biotechnology, and retail that power the local economy such as Texas A&M University, Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies, and H-E-B. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.

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