Four Rocky Hill Firefighters Graduate Somerset County Fire Academy

Posted July 29, 2025

After crawling through smoke-filled buildings, battling live flames and logging hours of training, Edward Banfe, Cristian Ruedas, Jason Wang and Gary Zuckerman earned their Firefighter I certification, graduating from the Somerset County Fire Academy on July 11. They are now fully qualified to respond as volunteer firefighters to real-life emergencies with the Rocky Hill Fire Department.

From left to right: Edward “Ed” Banfe, Cristian “Cris” Ruedas, Chief Todd Harris, Gary Zuckerman and Jason Wang.

To reach this significant achievement, each volunteer completed an intensive six-month training program funded by the Department. Recruits learned to handle ladders, hoses, self-contained breathing apparatus, search and rescue techniques and fire suppression tactics in simulated structure fires and hazardous environments.

“These individuals showed real commitment and determination throughout their training,” said Chief Todd Harris. “Earning Firefighter I certification is a major accomplishment, and we’re proud to see them reach this milestone and take on a greater role within the department.”

Each recruit brought a different motivation to the fire service, shaped by personal experience and a desire to give back.

Banfe said a simple banner outside the firehouse made him stop and reflect. “I thought, what excuse do I have for not joining?” said Banfe, a pharmaceutical marketing specialist who uses his flexible schedule to respond to calls during the day. “It’s like going back to school. It’s a great group of people who share the same passion for protecting their community.”

Ruedas, a full-time student at The College of New Jersey, was influenced by a strong family tradition of volunteering. “Being around a great group of guys, all doing something they love, is the most rewarding aspect,” he said. “There’s always something to learn.”

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The fire service offered Zuckerman a new way to serve others. A former physician who now works in cancer research, he was drawn in by the chance to contribute on a different front. “From the start, I felt like part of the team,” he said. “If you want to help people and learn new skills, this is a phenomenal way to do it.”

Their training was part of the department’s broader recruitment initiative, supported by a Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

The Rocky Hill Fire Department is actively recruiting new members, including volunteer firefighters, junior firefighters and administrative volunteers. Training and gear are free. No prior experience is needed.

To learn more or submit an inquiry, visit JoinRockyHillFire.org/join-us.