Efforts are underway to fix a shortage of firefighters in Atlanta. One program could help fill the gaps by putting high school graduates to work with some intriguing incentives. A bright future is coming into focus for these recent high school grads. The Atlanta Fire Rescue Foundation and Atlanta Fire and Rescue recently came together to celebrate the first Cadet Signing Day. ”That is huge for the future of the fire department...it gives those high school youths an opportunity to start a sustainable career,” said Chief Roderick “Rod” M. Smith with Atlanta Fire & Rescue. The programs were launched back in 2019 to inspire Atlanta high school kids to go directly into community work, just like the city’s current chief.