The Fire Training Academy program is one of the most physically challenging curriculums EPCC has to offer.
To join the academy, a student must first meet the specific academic requirements, as well as become acquainted with the program’s general expectations.
Students also need to take an Accuplacer exam to meet a certain criterion of scores and a physical course that trains students to reach the level of agility and fitness the academy requires.
Additionally, students must be able to handle medical emergencies by becoming a basic emergency medical technician.
It only takes one semester to receive certification, if the student is enrolled full- time. Only 28 full-time students and 28 part-time students are allowed to enroll each semester, after the requirements have been met.
As well as a certification, a student may also seek an Associate of Applied Science Degree in fire science administration or as a basic firefighter. However, for an associate’s degree, the student must complete a total of 72 credit hours, which takes roughly two years to complete.
According to fire technology counselor Oscar Velasquez and coordinator of the fire technology academy Richard Bahena, the academy has a 95 percent passing rate for state certification.
“Commitment, desire, dedication and sacrifice are necessary qualities and strengths for success as a member of a firefighting team,” said Velasquez.
Isaac Valencia, a current student at the fire technology academy, was a former business major at UTEP before deciding to become a firefighter.
“I know I want to save lives,” said Valencia. “I love to be physically fit, and what better way than to become a firefighter?” He is scheduled to complete his certification by the end of the fall semester.
Although the program is heavily populated by men, women do join the academy. “Two to four females tend to enroll each semester,” said Velasquez.
Those interested can contact Velasquez or Bahena for more information.
The cost is the same as tuition cost at EPCC.
There are also extra expenses such as the uniform and fire protection equipment.
Fortunately, the El Paso Fire Department allows EPCC students to practice with equipment that Valle Verde cannot provide.
The EPCC Fire Training Academy program is taught only at VV.
