The Fishers Fire Department is seeing early success from a major shift in how it recruits new firefighters, dramatically expanding its applicant pool beyond traditional local pipelines.

Fire Chief Ky Ragsdale told the Merit Commission Tuesday that a new online application system — managed through an outside contractor — has significantly increased interest in the department.

In its first use, the system generated approximately 1,500 applications from candidates across 10 states. By comparison, previous recruiting efforts relied primarily on in-person processes and produced far smaller applicant pools.

Department leaders have since worked through several rounds of screening. The initial group of 1,500 applicants was reduced to 800 based on application reviews, then to 500. After evaluating video submissions, the field now stands at about 150 candidates.

Those remaining will move on to the next phase of the hiring process, which includes a ladder climb test, physical examination and background check. Successful candidates are expected to enter the training academy in September.

Historically, the department loses two to three recruits during training, but officials believe the more rigorous front-end screening — including video evaluations — could improve retention through the academy and into active service.

The expanded recruiting push comes as the department works to maintain staffing levels following a wave of retirements. Many firefighters hired during Fishers’ period of rapid population growth are now reaching retirement eligibility, prompting the need for a steady pipeline of new hires.

Ragsdale said the broader reach is also producing a more diverse applicant pool, including military veterans, college graduates and individuals with skilled trade experience. Women and minority candidates are also represented among those advancing in the process.

City officials view the new approach as a way to both strengthen the department’s workforce and ensure it remains fully staffed to meet the needs of a growing community.