San Francisco Fire Department recruits 556 candidates for 130th training class

The City of San Francisco held a government meeting on July 4, 2025, focusing on the ongoing efforts of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Office, led by Assistant Deputy Chief Sean Buford. The meeting highlighted the office's busy schedule throughout January, particularly in supporting the hiring of new recruits for the fire department.

Key discussions included the coordination of interviews for the new recruits, with Lieutenant Anderson playing a significant role in organizing the process. This involved working with volunteers for interview panels and providing implicit bias training to ensure a fair selection process. The meeting noted a transition from the National Training Network to the Fire Candidate Testing Center for recruitment, emphasizing the importance of clear communication regarding eligibility for the new recruit class, referred to as the 130th.

The recruitment process yielded 747 applicants, with 556 deemed eligible for panel interviews. Ultimately, 491 candidates attended the interviews, and over 100 progressed to the chief's interviews, with the new recruit class set to begin in June.

The meeting also addressed the reconstitution of the Bridal Equity Action Committee, with Chief Buford serving as a liaison. The committee aims to clarify its objectives and enhance understanding within the department regarding its role in promoting racial equity. The focus for 2024 includes reviewing the Racial Equity Action Plan to assess past successes and identify future goals.

Additionally, Chief Buford participated in a Black History Month public safety announcement alongside other city officials, including Mayor Lyndon Breed. The meeting underscored the collaborative efforts within the city to address challenges and share best practices related to racial equity.

The ongoing support for the city EMT program was also highlighted, with Chief Buford and Lieutenant Anderson actively engaging with recruits to ensure their success. Lieutenant Anderson's commitment to recruitment and outreach was praised, noting his proactive approach in maintaining contact with potential candidates to facilitate their hiring process.

Overall, the meeting underscored the city's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion within the fire department, showcasing the collaborative efforts of various leaders and the importance of clear communication in recruitment and training initiatives.