Fulop Administration Further Strengthens Public Safety in Jersey City with 12 New Firefighters
Posted on 09/26/2025
Mayor Steven M. Fulop joins the City Council, Public Safety officials, and the Jersey City Fire Department today to announce the graduation of 12 new firefighters joining the Jersey City Fire Department, further strengthening the ranks of one of the state’s largest and busiest fire departments.

Today’s swearing in marks the completion of a year-long process, including an intensive training program at the Morris County Public Safety Training Academy, where they underwent rigorous instruction in fire suppression, search and rescue, hazardous materials response, and life-saving emergency medical techniques. With this graduating class, the Fulop Administration continues prioritizing public safety through historic investments in fire services, reaching record staffing levels, and significantly reducing response times citywide.

“The Jersey City Fire Department responded to nearly 20,000 calls for service last year, a clear reminder of the critical role our firefighters play in protecting this city,” said Mayor Fulop. “By adding new members to the force, we are not only making our neighborhoods safer but also reaffirming our commitment to providing the best emergency response in New Jersey.”

Today’s graduation underscores the Fulop Administration’s ongoing efforts to strengthen public safety, from expanding fire services to modernizing equipment and facilities. The addition of these latest firefighters ensures that Jersey City remains at the forefront of emergency preparedness and response.

“Each of these graduates represents the future of the Jersey City Fire Department,” said Public Safety Director James Shea. “They have shown the discipline, courage, and skill required to meet the demands of this profession while also rising to the challenges of a growing and prospering city.”

“Today’s graduation is not just about adding numbers to our department, it’s about welcoming highly trained men and women who have proven their dedication and readiness to serve,” said Jersey City Fire Chief Jack Johnson. “As they join the ranks of one of the busiest fire departments in the state, I am confident they will uphold our proud tradition of protecting lives and property while embodying the professionalism and bravery that define the Jersey City Fire Department.”

The newly sworn firefighters are listed below:
1. Matthew Bauer
2. Michael Cervino
3. Alexander Delesky
4. Shane Keepers
5. Daniel Madera
6. Edwin Mateo
7. Zachary Maysonet
8. Melvin Molina
9. Khyla Nalls-Maryland
10. Jeremy Van Der Laak
11. Joshua Vazquez
12. Hyomin Yang

The new firefighters will be assigned to firehouses throughout Jersey City, where they will join nearly 700 firefighters and officers who make up the JCFD.

All media inquiries should be directed to Kimberly Wallace-Scalcione at [email protected].