Fire Training Tower,
500 South University Parks Drive

Training Division

The Training Center along with The Fire Training Tower and The Maintenance shop was constructed at the same time in 1969. They are located at 500 South University Parks. The Training Tower is a six-story structure that is used on various fire training exercises. Training Chief Gary Davis is the one that oversees and maintains all training and training records. Each month the Fire Department is required to perform a minimum of 20 hours of continuing education. Davis plans and coordinates what training is expected from each fire fighter, and from time to time he will bring outside trainers to help instruct National Fire Academy courses or other types of curriculum.

The Waco Fire Department no longer runs its own academy. In 1997, the Waco Fire Department started hiring pre-certified firefighters/EMS. The Waco Fire Department formed a partnership with the McLennan Community College Fire Technology program. This has allowed the Waco Fire Department to achieve almost immediate productivity out of the new recruits instead of waiting 6 months.

Training is a vital function within the department. This allows the department to maintain and constantly improve on their skills. Also, it allows the department to learn new techniques or new hazards that develop everyday.

Training Chief: Gary L. Davis

Chief Davis began his career as a firefighter on May 4, 1981. Previously, he has held the position of Engineer and Station Lieutenant within our department. He was promoted to Training Chief on December 19, 1999 where he supervises all departmental training.

Contact Training Chief Gary Davis: FireT@ci.waco.tx.us