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15 May 2026
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A new era in firefighting and emergency services training: Rural Metro launches state-of-the-art training academy
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On 12 and 13 May 2026, Rural Metro Emergency Management Services officially launched its state-of-the-art Training Academy at De Hoek Farm in Heidelberg, marking a significant milestone in the advancement of emergency services training and skills development in Africa. The two-day launch event brought together a wide range of stakeholders, with the first day dedicated to government and municipal representatives, while the second day welcomed industrial partners and private sector groups.
The occasion was more than the opening of a new facility — it represented the beginning of a long-term investment in learning, preparedness, operational excellence and ultimately, the saving of lives.
In his address, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Rural Metro Emergency Management Services, Mr Chris Gilbert, highlighted the vision behind the academy and the importance of developing the next generation of highly skilled emergency responders.
“This academy has been established with a clear vision to develop highly skilled, professional firefighters who are equipped not only with technical knowledge, but also with leadership, resilience, and decision-making capabilities required in the modern emergency services environment,” he said.
He further emphasised the organisation’s commitment to creating an environment of excellence that aligns with international standards, embraces innovation, and continuously develops the capabilities of every learner who trains through the academy.
“Whether it is fire suppression, rescue operations, hazardous materials response, medical emergencies, or disaster management, this centre will serve as a platform for growth, preparedness, and operational excellence,” he added.
Addressing the students and trainees, Mr Gilbert reminded them that emergency services is more than simply a profession. “This is not simply a job, but a calling. The work you do will impact lives and communities. Carry that responsibility with pride and integrity.”
Mr Gilbert also extended his gratitude to the Advanced Group of Companies that contributed towards bringing the academy vision to life, namely: Fire Ops SA, Medi Response, Advanced Global, Advanced Logistics, Industrial Fire and Hazard Control, Advanced Fire Suppression and Technologies and IRCA Global.
The keynote address was delivered by the Chairperson of the Board at Advanced Group of Companies, Ms Sindi Mabaso-Koyana, who addressed leadership, transformation and the importance of investing in future-ready emergency response capabilities.
The event also welcomed several industry exhibitors and partners, including Charnaud and Co (Pty) Ltd, Dräger, IgnisArmor Fire and Rescue, SkillsTrain, Height Safety 360 and Brodel Solutions Workwear, alongside the Group of Companies. Their participation contributed to making the launch a memorable and impactful occasion.
A particularly moving moment during the programme was the memorial dedicated to fallen firefighters, honouring those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their communities as the organisation steps into this important new chapter.
The ceremony also featured a flag-raising and march drill presentation by trainees who have just completed three weeks of intensive training and will continue with a further nine months to complete the programme.
Another highlight of the launch was the unveiling of a commemorative plaque dedicated to the founding member and CEO of the Advanced Group of Companies, Mr Barries Barnard. This was followed by the ceremonial ribbon-cutting, officially opening the academy facility.
Guests were then treated to guided tours of the academy, followed by scenario drills and live demonstrations showcasing the academy’s operational capabilities. Demonstrations included high-angle rope rescue, fire suppression, live house fire rescue and aircraft rescue operations — reflecting the academy’s commitment to practical, world-class emergency response training.
The launch of the Rural Metro Training Academy marks a bold step forward in strengthening emergency preparedness and professional development within the fire and rescue sector, while reinforcing Rural Metro’s commitment to building safer communities through excellence in training.
For more information about courses and training opportunities:
Tel: +27 (0)33 413 4040
WhatsApp: +27 (0)60 992 7657
Email: [email protected]
Visit: www.ruralmetrosa.com
On 12 and 13 May 2026, Rural Metro Emergency Management Services officially launched its state-of-the-art Training Academy at De Hoek Farm in Heidelberg, marking a significant milestone in the advancement of emergency services training and skills development in Africa. The two-day launch event brought together a wide range of stakeholders, with the first day dedicated to government and municipal representatives, while the second day welcomed industrial partners and private sector groups.
The occasion was more than the opening of a new facility — it represented the beginning of a long-term investment in learning, preparedness, operational excellence and ultimately, the saving of lives.
In his address, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Rural Metro Emergency Management Services, Mr Chris Gilbert, highlighted the vision behind the academy and the importance of developing the next generation of highly skilled emergency responders.
“This academy has been established with a clear vision to develop highly skilled, professional firefighters who are equipped not only with technical knowledge, but also with leadership, resilience, and decision-making capabilities required in the modern emergency services environment,” he said.
He further emphasised the organisation’s commitment to creating an environment of excellence that aligns with international standards, embraces innovation, and continuously develops the capabilities of every learner who trains through the academy.
“Whether it is fire suppression, rescue operations, hazardous materials response, medical emergencies, or disaster management, this centre will serve as a platform for growth, preparedness, and operational excellence,” he added.
Addressing the students and trainees, Mr Gilbert reminded them that emergency services is more than simply a profession. “This is not simply a job, but a calling. The work you do will impact lives and communities. Carry that responsibility with pride and integrity.”
Mr Gilbert also extended his gratitude to the Advanced Group of Companies that contributed towards bringing the academy vision to life, namely: Fire Ops SA, Medi Response, Advanced Global, Advanced Logistics, Industrial Fire and Hazard Control, Advanced Fire Suppression and Technologies and IRCA Global.
The keynote address was delivered by the Chairperson of the Board at Advanced Group of Companies, Ms Sindi Mabaso-Koyana, who addressed leadership, transformation and the importance of investing in future-ready emergency response capabilities.
The event also welcomed several industry exhibitors and partners, including Charnaud and Co (Pty) Ltd, Dräger, IgnisArmor Fire and Rescue, SkillsTrain, Height Safety 360 and Brodel Solutions Workwear, alongside the Group of Companies. Their participation contributed to making the launch a memorable and impactful occasion.
A particularly moving moment during the programme was the memorial dedicated to fallen firefighters, honouring those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their communities as the organisation steps into this important new chapter.
The ceremony also featured a flag-raising and march drill presentation by trainees who have just completed three weeks of intensive training and will continue with a further nine months to complete the programme.
Another highlight of the launch was the unveiling of a commemorative plaque dedicated to the founding member and CEO of the Advanced Group of Companies, Mr Barries Barnard. This was followed by the ceremonial ribbon-cutting, officially opening the academy facility.
Guests were then treated to guided tours of the academy, followed by scenario drills and live demonstrations showcasing the academy’s operational capabilities. Demonstrations included high-angle rope rescue, fire suppression, live house fire rescue and aircraft rescue operations — reflecting the academy’s commitment to practical, world-class emergency response training.
The launch of the Rural Metro Training Academy marks a bold step forward in strengthening emergency preparedness and professional development within the fire and rescue sector, while reinforcing Rural Metro’s commitment to building safer communities through excellence in training.
For more information about courses and training opportunities:
Tel: +27 (0)33 413 4040
WhatsApp: +27 (0)60 992 7657
Email: [email protected]
Visit: www.ruralmetrosa.com