As I reflect on 2025, I am filled with immense pride in the men and women of the Anne Arundel County Fire Department. This past year, we continued to focus on growth, forward movement and modernizing your fire department. The christening of two new fireboats, the construction of the new Crownsville Fire Station, and the upgrade to full-time Recruit Training Officer staffing at our Training Academy were just a few of our larger accomplishments this past year.

Additionally, we continue to invest in staffing, apparatus, training and professional development. We have embraced innovation and technology that speaks to a workforce of six different generations to better support our operations and the needs of our community. We continue our strong efforts in fire prevention and the health and safety of our firefighters. 

The people we serve make us better and stronger and remind us of our continued commitment to excellence, accountability, and professionalism. We are honored and proud to have the privilege to serve those who live, work and play in Anne Arundel County. Thank you for a great 2025! We look forward to serving you in 2026. 

-Chief Wolford

Academy Staffing & Department Capacity

Training & Research: This year, the budget funded 5 new full-time positions for the Training Academy, marking a major investment in the organization's future. This expansion allows the department to conduct two recruit classes each year instead of one, increasing hiring capacity and ensuring a stronger, more consistent pipeline of highly trained firefighters and paramedics to meet the County's growing needs. 

Full Staffing Achievement: For the first time in history, the Anne Arundel County Fire Department reached full authorized staffing: 959 uniformed employees, 32 Fire Communications Personnel, and 31 Support Civilians. This milestone reflects years of focused recruitment, retention, and strategic workforce planning by this administration. 

Growth and Future Planning

The department continued to invest in long-term operational readiness through planning and infrastructure improvements. Two new fireboats were placed into service this year, expanding our maritime response capabilities. Additionally, several pieces of fire apparatus were replaced, enhancing the operational readiness of our fleet. These investments support both current operations and anticipated growth. 

Several major capital projects advanced in 2025 as a part of a multi-year facilities modernization plan. Construction of the newest facility, Crownsville Fire Station 6, is nearing completion and is slated to open soon.  Cape St. Claire Volunteer Fire Station 19 will begin construction in the spring of 2026, immediately followed by Jessup Fire Station 29. Together, these projects reflect the department's continued focus on modernizing facilities, improving response coverage, and positioning the organization to meet future service demands.