FIRST DUE FIRE TRAINING ETHOS
“Ancora Imparo” is an Italian phrase meaning “Yet, I am learning.” It is often attributed to the great Renaissance genius, Michelangelo, supposedly observed by him at the age of 87. When asked how he became the great artist that he was, he reportedly answered “Ancora Imparo”.
Learning is an ongoing journey, and in the fire service, this holds especially true. Thanks to the collaboration with NIST, UL, and numerous fire service experts, significant strides have been made in expanding our knowledge base. Our classes combine the latest data with proven tactics and task-level actions to achieve the best possible outcomes.
Owner of First Due Fire Training
Kyle Haertling
With over two decades of distinguished service in the fire industry, Kyle is a seasoned fire instructor and Lieutenant with the Columbus (OH) Division of Fire. His career spans a unique breadth of environments—from rural to suburban to urban settings—providing him with a comprehensive perspective on fire service challenges and solutions. For the past 12 years, he has channeled this extensive operational experience into a passion for instruction, serving on the staff of the Ohio Fire Academy for a decade and also teaching at Bowling Green State University’s Fire School. A lifelong learner himself, Kyle holds a paramedic certification, which he has maintained for 20 years, and consistently pursues advanced training to stay at the forefront of fireground tactics. His specific passion lies in engine company operations, a focus he now brings to a wider audience through First Due Fire Training.
Alan Ashcraft
Alan is an Assistant Chief with the Newark Fire Department and has served in the fire service since 1999. He has extensive experience in apparatus operations, firefighter training, emergency response, and fireground leadership. Throughout his career, he has been actively involved in equipment management, operational policy development, and training initiatives, bringing practical field experience and real-world application into the classroom. Alan is committed to providing students with knowledge and lessons learned that improve operational effectiveness and firefighter safety.
Travis Molter
Travis is a Captain with the West Licking Joint Fire District for over 20 years. He holds numerous certifications including Paramedic, Rescue Technician, and Hazardous Materials Technician. He is actively involved in fire service training and education and currently serves as an instructor for the Ohio Fire Academy and Bowling Green State University at State Fire School.
His instructional focus includes engine company operations, fireground strategy and tactics, rural water supply operations, leadership development, RIT operations, and technical rescue considerations. Captain Molter is passionate about realistic training, practical fireground decision-making, and preparing firefighters and officers for the challenges of today’s fire service.