What can I say about Deputy Chief Drennan and his guys? Amazing, that’s what! Chief has a no non-sense approach to teaching and learning. Might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but highly suggest you get yourself a big cup and devour it!
Chief will tell you multiple times per class “The hungry man gets the sandwich” and it is so very true. If you’re hungry, have the desire, the want, the drive, then Chief Drennan is your guy.
I was on the job for 3 years and 9 months when I had taken my first (AND LAST) Captain’s exam. I came out number 2 on the list and 2.8 points behind the guy with 14 years on the job that barely beat me and he was just shy of full seniority points. Without those seniority points I crushed him and all of my competitors.
Chief gave me the tools I needed to accomplish the tasks at hand. Any fool can read and recite a spiel. You must take this information read it, eat it and digest it into your own!
You have to put the work in!!! Invest in your future!!! Read the books!!! Take the classes!!! No one will do it for you.
Chief Drennan’s phone is always on and his email and texts are promptly answered. He is always here to help!
I can thank a bunch of people but 3 are at the top of my list, My wife (for putting up with my taking classes, studying, reading and training), Chief Drennan (for believing in me and answering everyone of my 100 plus emails, phone calls and texts to go over material and my oral presentation), but most importantly I have to thank GOD, without GOD I would be no one.
I have sent numerous people from departments all over NJ to Chief Drennan and will continue to do so because I believe in him, his staff and his material!
I look forward to studying for the next Battalion Chief’s exam with you Chief! Thank you and the guys for everything, you are all amazing!
I began going to the Fire Officer attaining Academy in 2015. After getting nearly perfect scores on my oral examination I was promoted 2nd in my department to Lieutenant.
Since then I have been promoted to Captain, again placing second only to be beat by another of their students. I have recommended every firefighter I know to the Fire Officers Training Academy and the results speak for themselves.
Since being the first student from my department to go to them, every list has had the top scorers being their students. Including (3) 1st place candidates. I can’t say enough good things about their program.
I first heard of this class from my buddy who I was studying with for the captains test. He heard greatThings from other guys in his department about DC Paul and his class. In the beginning, I was skeptical because choosing the right Promotional class is Crucial. First day of class, the room was
Packed with firefighters from all departments. I knew the second DC Paul Drennan began speaking, I had chosen the right class. He is knowledgeable, encouraging, challenging and inspiring. You can tell he truly cares about his students doing well on the test, on the job, and in their personal lives. There is no doubt on my mind that his material, his dedication and passion for firefighters to do well, that there is no other instructor that can come Close to him.
Most importantly, He gives God all the Glory for where he is today, and I respect that 100%. In our line of work, we hardly hear about giving God praise or even acknowledging Him, but Paul isn’t scared to do so.
Since the first day of class, not only did I gain a knowledgeable teacher, A mentor, I gained a dear friend, but I gained a True Brother that I know I can always count on…
Thank you Paul for all that you have done for me and my family! 👍🏼🙏🏼
Chief Drennan’s fire officer course is second to none. This was my third time taking the captain’s exam, the first two times I ended up ranking in the 20s but after taking Chief Drennan’s course I was able to succeed and ranked #1 in my department. Thank you to Chief Drennan and all the knowledgeable instructors from Fire Officer Training Academy. If you’re serious about getting promoted than invest in yourself and reach out to Chief Drennan. Don’t settle for mediocrity, be great!!!!!
Very down to earth instruction. They make you feel like you absolutely can achieve your goal. Normal guys who put you in a comfortable mindset with no pressure. They never turn their phones off so if you need help or have a question they make you feel comfortable enough to reach out anytime to get assistance. Hands down some of if not the best around for class instruction or one on one tutoring. I have one more level to go and I absolutely will reach out when the time comes so they can help me achieve my goal of Deputy Chief.
Chief Drennan and his colleagues at the Fire Officer Training Academy have the knowledge, tools and the will to help you achieve your promotional goals. You must bring the BELIEF and HARD WORK. With the guidance and example of Chief Drennan, I scored #1 on my battalion chief exam and have been promoted. He has made a lasting impact on my life, as well as my career. If you are considering fire service promotion, do yourself a favor and call this man ASAP.
Chief Drennan and his staff are by far one of the most professional and top notch training sessions, I have ever been to. In taking a course with this staff you will be sure to be at the top of the class. His training session are strategically planned and well thought out, so that you understand the purpose of the course and questions that will be given. Currently I am in the top 10 of my class, thanks to my friend Chief Drennan and staff.
Fire officers Training academy is second to none. Whether you are trying to land your dream job or looking to advance through the ranks , FOTA is the way to go! Chief Drennan and his team have the formula to get you there! Check them out, you won’t be disappointed!
I can’t say enough about the Fire Officer Training Academy. Chief Drennan and his staff are phenomenal teachers-coaches when prepping you for an exam. Their techniques give you the upper edge on your competition. I use their tools today as I scored #2 on my Battalion Chief exam and was recently promoted. A+
The process of preparing for a promotional exam is not to be taken lightly. Chief Drennan offers a multitude of book breakdowns, written and oral exam preparation and skill workshops that will assist anyone on their study path. All of the instructors present material in a tangible manner that is easy to grasp and ensure that if you put in the work, you will understand it. I attended as many classes as possible to sharpen my skillset, gain the edge over my competition and achieve the ultimate goal of getting promoted to Captain this past week. If you are looking for the motivation and guidance to overcome the fear of not being prepared then you have come to the right place.
Chief Drennan gave me the tools I needed to get the most out of my preparation for the promotional exam. His system breaks down everything you need to know and gives you the best way to prepare for it. Highly recommend Paul and his team, and with their help I was #1 on the promotional list and recently was promoted.
I would highly recommend working with Deputy Chief Paul Drennan to get promoted. He is an excellent motivator and gets the most out of his students. He uses a well-balanced combination of on the job experience and study material to get people ready for both the written exam as well as the oral exam. I personally took his one-on-ones and they are a true game changer to put you above your competition. DC Drennan goes above and beyond to make his students better and prepare them for the promotional exams.
Chief Drennan’s guidance gave me the confidence and knowledge to come out top 3 in my department. With both the written/oral, him and his team help to break the material down in a simpler more digestible way, then go above and beyond to make sure you have a deep understanding of it all. Thank you for everything Chief and the whole Fire Officer Training Academy team!
I was recommended to Chief Paul Drennan and the “Fire Officer Training Academy” from an officer of my department who previously scored #1 one both his 1st and 2nd level test. This is not a one day “run you through the mill” program. It is a full three day, highly extensive detailed class that is designed to have you start thinking on how you can format and answer any situational question that is thrown at you. Once you leave the class, it is up to you to practice, practice, practice. If you follow Chief Drennans program, study, prepare and again, practice, you will absolutely walk in on test day confidently knowing your are more prepared than the next guy.
And don’t think the guidance ends there. Numerous times I have emailed, text or called the Chief if I had any questions and he always immediately contacted me back with the answer or the thought process he used to deescalate the situation.
Right now I am sitting #1 for the first time with the #2 candidate several points behind me. I can honestly tell you that it would not have been possible if not for the guidance of Chief Drennan and his outstanding team. I would highly recommend this course for those that are not only serious about getting promoted, but interested in promoting yourself!
I’ve been a firefighter for 12 years. I took 2 promotional tests in the past. The 1st time I failed. The 2nd test I bought the books and did what I thought was studying. I passed the 2nd test but really didn’t do well. So this time around I decided to do whatever it took for me to do well. So I did some research and heard really great things about Chief Paul Drennan from Jersey City FD. I decided to take any and every class he was giving and it paid off. Chief Drennan broke down the books from the reading list and put it into real world scenarios. He wasn’t just like a teacher he became a friend and mentor. The Chief was always there to give me advice and to keep me on track. He stayed in contact throughout the whole process from the written test all the way until after the oral test. The Chief always made an effort to reach out whether through calls/emails and texts. One time he even called me back while he was on the beach in Florida with his family. His dedication is unmatched and his classes are worth every penny. I’m happy to say that this last test I came out number 4 and will be promoted.
I highly recommend Chief Paul Drennan and the entire staff at Fire Officers Training Academy for you promotional exam needs. I not only scored #1 on my first level Fire Officers exam but they helped me score in the top 20 in the entire state with perfect 5s across the board on my oral portion of the examination. I have recently been promoted to Captain in my department and truly feel I wouldn’t be in this position without their help. Chief Drennan gives you the tools you need to do well but like he states in every class, it all depends on the work you put into it. You need to be motivated and put in your own work in, 100%. He will give you the tools and knowledge you need but you have to put those tools to good use by studying, reading and practicing every day. Chief Drennan not only runs a top notch class but he keeps it real and keeps you driven on your goals. His motivation and his love for the job kept me hungry at all times. It’s great when you see an instructor who loves what they do, loves the fire service and who loves to see his students succeed. That’s the difference between this program and the others. Chief Drennan and his staff genuinely care for their student’s success. But like I stated earlier, you have to come motivated and determined because with their help you will succeed. Thank you again for everything Chief, especially you knowledge and your constant support.
I highly recommend the courses offered by Chief Paul Drennan. I have attended several of his courses in prep for both the written and oral testing for the 1st Level Officer exams. His first hand experience and individualized coaching and feedback truly aided in my success in passing both exams. By participating in these courses my ranking improved by 14 spots, ranking me #5 in my department, which will guarantee my promotion within the next year. Chief Drennan also made himself available for questions outside of the classroom, which is a testament to his commitment to his craft and the participants. Thank you Chief Drennan and The Fire Academy for the work you do to prepare Firefighters to become Leaders for tomorrow.
@Fireofficertrainingacademy had a great way of teaching the information. It’s definitely obvious that they are willing to give as much as someone is willing to put in. Their program really helped me prepare for a test that I’ve never taken before and feel confident enough to feel ready to take the promotional exam. Thank you DC P. Drennan and BC S. Drennan for all the time and hard work you put in to helping us.
I strongly recommend this course for anyone interested in being promoted to their respective next level. I’ve always taken the Captains test without ever opening a book and it showed on the list with me finishing in the 40’s, 50’s and 60’s. After I took this course I came out 8 on the current list! This system works! Chief Drennan keeps it simple at an affordable price.
Chief Drennan and his team have the promotional exam game figured out. They have broken it down into a formula that is easy to understand, and more importantly easy to remember when it comes time for test day. The great thing about it is that it can be used to simplify even the most complex scenarios. I can say from experience, (scored in the top 10%) Chief Drennan’s method and hard work are all you need in order to perform well on these promotional exams.
If you’re looking to get promoted and take your career to the next level, I HIGHLY recommend attending the written/oral classes that are offered… they’re awesome! Not to mention, the staff is full of knowledge and always willing to help. I placed #4 on my Captain exam (Newark) and I have to give a GREAT THANKS to the Fire Officer Training Academy. You guys are great, keep up the good work!
It is clear that I would not have done nearly as well as I did on the promotional oral exam had it not been for Chief Drennan and everyone at Fire Officer Training Academy. There is no magic pill to become great at the exam. It takes time and hard work. If you are willing to put in the work, Fire Officer Training Academy will give you all the tools to make sure you are ready for anything on test day. I was fully confident going into the test. There wasn’t a scenario I wasn’t prepared for and have Chief Drennan to thank for that.
As a student of the Fire Officer Training Academy, I can confidently say that if you want to come out at the top of your list, studying with Chief Drennan is the only way to go. Between the written breakdowns and oral classes, this is the best way to set yourself up for success. As #1 on my Lieutenant list, I am proof that the FOTA works.
Paul Drennan and his crew are the best! Chief teaches with a style all of his own. A style that clicks! A no nonsense approach to commanding your future!
I can’t tell you how many times I called Chief on his personal phone, on his personal time, and we talked scenario’s, size up and about anything I needed to hear.
You’re not another number, another filled spot to Chief and his crew! They care more about your future and promotions than you could ever imagine.
Personal one on one classes to prepare you for the oral exam, to cut your nerves and hone your skills. Just like the oral test, Chief and his crew are all 5’s!
Being the Jr guy testing for his department, with barely any, actually the minimum seniority points taking my first test, I came out #2 out 6 who completed both phases. All with maximum seniority points. While only a few points separate me from #1, we both studied with Chief and his crew
Chief,
I can’t thank you enough for all of your help! Because of you I was motivated, prepared, and confident the days of my test. As a result I came out #2 on my Lieutenant’s list and will be getting promoted next week. To anyone reading this, if you are serious about moving up in your department you need to go to Fire Officer Training Academy. Put in the hard work and you will get promoted. “The time for half measures is over!”
Chief Drennan and his team were instrumental in helping me prepare for my first promotional exam. From the book breakdowns to the oral exam prep or just the motivational e-mails that I would get during my study time really made a difference. I highly recommend his classes, they give you the tools to answer the questions put in front of you. Because of the tools provided and copious amounts of studying I’m sitting number two in Elizabeth with seven years on the job. Thank you Chief!
This was my first oppurtunity to take a promotional exam for my
department. Over the past 5-10 years my department has seen a
turnover in manpower. Most of the senior officers and firefighters
have retired leaving 3/4 of the department eligible to take the exam
if they elected to. Knowing that the competition would be fierce I
knew I needed an edge. A few of my friends from other departments who
have recently gotten promoted spoke very highly of the program and
told me it was going to be worth it. I first took the written prep
class that was offered, knowing that I never was a good test taker I
was skeptical of just how much it was would help. When I took the
written test in November I left feeling like I had failed. When the
results came out several months later I was floored to find out I had
gotten 60/75 questions correct, a top score shared by one other person
in my department.After seeing this score getting promoted became that much more
possible. I immediately contacted the Drennans for the oral test
prep. Their working knowledge of how the exams are administered in
New Jersey gave me a very serious competitive edge. I attended every
class they offered, and even personal 1 on 1 sessions. The 1 on 1
sessions set me apart from those who didn’t elect to take it. They
were worth every cent. They showed me not only what to say, but how
to say it. I learned that answering the question, and preforming the
assigned task was may more important then saying everything you can
think of in the allotted time. In the end I came out #3 overall for
my department and have a very realistic chance of getting promoted
within the cycle. I would highly recommend taking this class and any
class offered for those who are serious about giving themselves the
best chance of getting promoted. I will certainly be attending more
classes as my career and hopefully my rank continues to grow. The
results speak for themselves, nothing left to say other then these
guys are the best. Others may state that, but these guys back it up
100% with the results of those who take their classes.Bottom line, you want to get promoted. Take. Their. Classes.
I would like to thank Chief Drennan because without the Chief I would have never done as well as I did. I took your written mock test and oral preparation class with your instruction I was able to come out number 1 on my department’s promotional list. I been on the job 5 years and this was my first promotional exam. I was able to beat out many others with alot more seniority than I. Hence forth I know what you guys are probably thinking why I should I choose Fire Officer Training Academy and I would be the first one to tell you because it works hands down. The proof is in the numbers of people who use this program and get promoted. Chief Drennan and his team are not like the others out there. Some instructors out there talk as they’re just smarter than you and their teaching method it kind of condescending. Chief Drennan’s approach is simple and easy to understand which gives the student confidence that he/she will do well; as long as you put the work in. Chief Drennan is very knowledgeable about the key concepts that test administrators are looking for. He is also willing to help you outside of classroom setting as well. I even called him to discuss things I didn’t understand and he patiently answered all of my questions. Who does that? No one other than Chief Drennan….. Remember the hungry man gets the sandwich! So ask yourself how hungry are you to get promoted? How bad do you want it?
I would highly recommend Chief Drennan and Fire Officer Training Academy! I came out #2 on a very competitive list and I owe it all to them. Yes I put in a lot of time and hard work but Chief Drennan and staff gave me the tools I needed to be able to succeed. For the written part of the test, they have classes that literally break down every book, chapter by chapter. The practice exams are treated just as if it were test day. They say, “You play like you practice!” They also prepare you for the oral like no other class out there. You literally get the answers to the test months before the oral!! I HIGHLY RECOMMEND taking one on one sessions with Chief Drennan as well. By the time the oral test came around, I knew there was nothing they could throw at me that I wouldn’t hit out of the park because Chief Drennan set me up to win giving me every possible scenario! Not only do you get everything you need to succeed but Chief Drennan and staff actually CARE. They are so passionate about helping us succeed. They want it for us as much as we do! As long as you put in the time, there is no doubt in my mind you will be at the top of any list if you take advantage of all the classes they offer!!! Thank you again Chief. Without you, I wouldn’t be where I am today!
I would like to thank you for giving me the tools I needed to be so successful on my promotional exam. With your help, I was #1 by more than 5 points. Your system and guidance truly gives candidates the tools they need to be successful on any exam. I would highly recommend that any prospective candidate take your class and they will see results!
Hi chief. My name is steven Cuco from the Linden Fire dept. I had taken several of your classes for the LT exam, including a private session at your home. I am writing to let you know that I cane number four on the list for Linden! Actually, four out of the top seven all attended your classes!
So I would just like to thank you for all of the help and informative classes!
Deputy Chief Drennan’s classes are informative with great information. He has an outstanding staff of professionals where you will learn a lot to help you in your future.
Can’t even begin to express my gratitude… # 2 on the list for Morristown..
I will most certainly use and refer your program to any firefighter looking to further their career.. thank you again..
Hello chief,
My name is Joe Critchley. I’m currently a fire fighter in Bloomfield. I took your written mock test class and oral preparation classes. I just want to say thank you very much. With your classes, the oral preparation class especially, I was able to come out number 1 on my departments list. I am on the job 7 years and this was my first promotional exam. I was able to beat out over 25 other guys many with alot more seniority than I have. Your oral preparation program was flawless and I believe is what gave me the necessary tools to have the results I did. So again I just want to say thank you very much because I truely believe without your program I wouldn’t have had the results that I did. If you ever need a strong endorsement this is mine right here. Thank you.
Going to Chief Drennan’s classes was the best choice I made in preparing for my promotional test. Chief Drennan is knowledgeable and approachable. His methods are direct and to the point and will leave you with a clear cut understanding of how the test works and how to excel taking it.
This class is the best class out there. They will motivate and prepare you for everything the CSC could throw at you. I owe them everything for helping me get my priorities straight and to focus on the “Sandwich” Paul Drennan. #1 NHRFR.
From an older dog who’s been through the the test many times unfortunately, Chief Drennan’s class is second to none. He helped organize my test answers. He puts the answers in layman’s terms which make its easier to remember. The current list I have scored the highest of all my past scores with his help.
I can not stress the importance of taking Chief Drennan’s promotional classes. The guidance and expertise that he provided was profoundly useful. His teaching style was very effective, and allowed me to go into the exam with the confidence I needed. #1 EFD.
I would not be in the position I am in right now on the list, without the help of Chief Paul Drennan. It’s an easy to follow no nonsense approach. “the hungry man gets the sandwich”.
Chief Drennan,
My name is Juan Palleija. Thanks to your instruction, I am now a Captain N.F.D. I have taken the exam for captain at least 5(?) times. Each time
I failed miserably. I placed one time, # 74. Not good. My mind was just not into it. Your enthusiasm lit a spark and motivated me to learn the material you and Mr. Carbone taught. I hoped to do well as I have six years to retire. Never did I expect to place # 2 and # 1 in the State and City of Newark respectively. Everyone asks how I did it. I mention your name and direct them to your web site. I do so because I believe you have a gift to inspire others. That is what I tell anyone who will listen. I know now I had it in me to do well. I just needed the key to unlock the door. And you Sir, provided that key. Thank You.
I would like to know when you plan to do a Battalion Chief preparatory exam. With His Grace and your instruction, I believe I may do well, again.
Yesterday November 21,2017 I was promoted to Captain of the Jersey City fire department. It was by far the proudest day of my life. Taking Chief Paul Drennan‘s classes allowed me this unbelievable opportunity. He motivated me every day to study and to realize that anything is possible through hard work. Because of his teaching I scored a perfect score on the oral . It was by far the most educational experience I’ve ever had in my life . His knowledge of the fire ground is unparalleled .His experience with these tests Go back over 20 years and no one can educate you on how to perform to the best of your ability then him . I owe it all to him It for this promotion . I am eternally grateful and proud . I tell everyone you have to take his classes if you want to get promoted period . As he would say be brave and courageous !!! Step up cease the opportunity and get promoted . Don’t wait sign up today , you will be thankful you did .