Mississippi State Fire Academy awarded $430,000 federal grant for Mobile Training Unit
JACKSON, Miss. – The Mississippi State Fire Academy (MSFA) will purchase a new mobile training package to serve firefighters across the state after being awarded a federal grant worth $429,565.21.
The funding was provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) through the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program, which is designed to meet the needs of fire departments and state training facilities.
The grant will be used to acquire an integrated mobile training system that includes appliances, hoses, nozzles, and pump simulators.
“This funding allows us to implement an integrated mobile training system…to deliver high-impact, hands-on training programs to firefighters across the state,” said Kelly Elliott, MSFA Executive Director. “This investment strengthens the skills and readiness of Mississippi’s firefighters and is a significant enhancement to our Academy’s training capabilities.”
Elliott also extended gratitude to the state’s congressional delegation for their support in securing the grant.
The new unit will allow the academy to bring advanced training directly to local departments.
“Enhancing our firefighting training with a mobile trailer represents a significant step forward in improving our overall training operations,” said State Fire Marshal and Insurance Commissioner Mike Chaney. “The mobility of the trailer adds a valuable level of flexibility, enabling us to bring high-quality training directly to departments and crews in various locations. This approach…ensures that more firefighters are better prepared, more confident, and equipped to respond effectively in high-pressure situations.”
The academy recognized MSFA Administrative Director Jessie Bowman and Instructor Chief Matt Hinkle for their work in preparing and submitting the successful grant application.
