Alabama Fire College Announces $14M Expansion

TUSCALOOSA, AL — The Alabama Fire College (AFC) on Friday announced a $14 million expansion as it seeks to address the state’s increasing shortage of emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and paramedics, especially in rural areas.

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This comes as Alabama faces rising demands for emergency medical services (EMS) amid a wave of retirements among experienced first responders.

Expansion plans include new classrooms, advanced simulation labs and a focus on hybrid learning, blending online coursework with in-person training.

AFC says the approach is designed to accommodate students in rural areas who may not have access to traditional educational programs.

AFC Executive Director Matt Russell highlighted the critical need for trained personnel.

“The need for well-trained EMTs and paramedics across the state is immense,” Russell said. “Alabama is facing a perfect storm: retiring firefighters, not enough young people to fill the ranks, and an increasing volume of EMS calls. Sixty-seven percent of fire calls are now EMS-related.”

AFC recorded its highest enrollment to date this year, with over 30,000 students in its fire and EMS programs. The expansion is expected to boost these numbers further and provide significant economic benefits to Tuscaloosa County and the state.

What's more, the construction of the new facilities is expected to create dozens of local jobs and, once complete, will require additional teaching and support staff. .

State Sen. Gerald Allen, R-Tuscaloosa, also expressed strong support for the expansion and the need for enhanced EMS training statewide.

“This expansion at the Alabama Fire College is a crucial step in making sure our state is prepared for any crisis,” he said.

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