MAAC Foundation Celebrates Graduation of 11 Firefighters from Career Fire Academy
 
VALPARAISO, IN – In partnership with the Northwest Indiana District 1 Firefighter Training Council, the MAAC Foundation is proud to announce the graduation of the Summer 2025 Career Fire Academy. The ceremony was held on Friday, December 19, 2025 at the MAAC Foundation First Responder Training Campus. Students of this academy have been working hard and honing their skills as firefighters since the beginning of October.
 
The 11 graduates representing the Portage, Michigan City, Ogden Dunes, Whiting, and Liberty Township Fire Departments have completed a rigorous 11-week training program that included instruction in fire suppression, hazmat operations, and technical rescue, along with other vital firefighting skills. They have also learned about the importance of community service and public education.
“Over the course of this academy, these firefighters have shown remarkable dedication, perseverance, and growth,” said Nicole Gladstone, President & CEO of the MAAC Foundation. “Their commitment to serving others embodies the mission of the MAAC Foundation, and we congratulate them as they begin careers dedicated to protecting their communities.”
 
Patrick Nickos, Academy Instructor and Portage Fire Department Firefighter and Paramedic, has been teaching the new graduates throughout their long journey.
“Guiding this class has been an honor. They met every challenge with etermination and resilience, proving they’re ready for the responsibility ahead. I’m proud of each of them and confident they’ll serve their communities with distinction,” said Patrick Nickos, Academy Instructor.
 
Surrounded by loved ones, friends, and their newest families, the fire departments which they are joining, the following graduates walked across the stage to receive their certificates:
 
Nathan Brandt, Portage
Robert Cloyd, Michigan City
Tyler Martin, Michigan City
Ryan Mattel, Portage
Austin Nickos, Ogden Dunes
Edwin Schmidt, Michigan City
Ruben Silvas, Whiting
Larz Stanford, Michigan City
Pedro Valerio, Whiting
Noah Villarreal, Portage
Caitlin Wilcox, Liberty Township
The MAAC Foundation, First Responder Training Campus is transforming the landscape of First Responder training across Northwest Indiana, the state, and the country. With a comprehensive, inclusive campus, they provide access for all First Responders – EMT personnel, firefighters, law enforcement officers, and K9 officers – to train at their state-of-the-art facility at no cost. The MAAC is a top provider of safety, emergency preparedness, and response training with more than 15 buildings, such as classroom space, residential structures, a live burn building, a flashover chamber, and a 4-story tower. Additionally, the facility boasts over 40 tactical props spread across 30+ acres. For more information about the MAAC Foundation and how to help make a safer community as a first responder or community member, visit www.maacfoundation.org to learn about our services or volunteer. MAAC Foundation