DETROIT – Friendship sparked an unexpected career change for two of Detroit’s newest firefighters, who were among 51 graduates joining the Detroit Fire Department’s ranks Friday.
Andre Vaughn, 41, and Terrell Owens, 42, have been best friends since they were 8 years old. The two graduated together as part of Class 89 of the Detroit Fire Department.
“Our chemistry has always been that way,” said Vaughn. “We’re the oldest two in the class.”
For Vaughn, this graduation represented perseverance. After an unsuccessful first attempt at the academy, he knew he needed support to succeed -- and turned to his best friend.
“This time I’m like OK, I need someone to come in there and help me,” Vaughn said. “So, I called my best friend and said, ‘Hey, you want to be a firefighter?’”
The invitation came as a surprise to Owens, who previously worked in management and corporate jobs.
“For me, this is a completely different space,” Owens said. “I’ve always been in leadership, but when he gave me that call, I couldn’t do anything but do it. To be able to do it with him, I’m very proud.”
The Detroit Fire Department is currently seeking the next generation of firefighters and EMTs.
Applications for the next cadet class are being accepted through January 31, 2026.
For more information about joining the Detroit Fire Department, interested candidates can click here.