(Photo provided, MAAC Foundation)
(Photo provided, MAAC Foundation)
(Photo provided, MAAC Foundation)
(Photo provided, MAAC Foundation)
In partnership with the Northwest Indiana District 1 Firefighter Training Council, the MAAC Foundation announces the graduation of 39 firefighters from the Winter 2026 Northwest Indiana District 1 Volunteer Fire Academy. The graduation ceremony was June 19, 2026, at Wheeler High School. Representing fire departments from all across Northwest Indiana, the graduates completed a demanding 22-week training program designed to prepare them for service in their communities. Recruits received instruction in fire suppression, hazardous materials operations, technical rescue, search and rescue, ventilation, ladders, forcible entry, firefighter survival, and other essential firefighting skills. In addition to technical training, students learned the importance of public education, teamwork, leadership, and community service.
“This graduation is a testament to what can be accomplished when dedicated students, experienced instructors, supportive departments, and community partners come together with a shared purpose. The MAAC Foundation is proud to serve as a training ground for the next generation of first responders, and we congratulate these graduates on an achievement that will benefit their communities for years to come,” said Nicole Gladstone, President & CEO at the MAAC Foundation.
The academy was led by a dedicated team of instructors from departments throughout the region, including Academy Instructor and Munster Fire Department Battalion Chief Kevin Nowaczyk, who guided students through months of rigorous training. “The academy challenges students both physically and mentally, and these graduates rose to every challenge placed before them. They earned this accomplishment through hard work, perseverance, and teamwork. It has been an honor to watch them grow into firefighters ready to serve their departments and communities,” said Nowaczyk.
Throughout the academy, the MAAC Foundation documented the journey of Director of Development Carl Kurek, who completed the program as a recruit sponsored by Liberty Township Volunteer Fire Department. Through a weekly video series, audiences followed Kurek and his fellow students as they tackled the challenges of the academy. “When I started this academy, I knew it would be challenging, but I don’t think any of us truly understood how much we would learn and grow over the last 22 weeks. We came from different departments and different backgrounds, but we became a strong team along the way. We pushed each other, learned from each other, and helped each other through some tough days. I’m incredibly proud of every person who went through this Academy with me and excited to watch them get out there and serve their communities,” Kurek said.
For more information about the MAAC Foundation, visit www.maacfoundation.org .
