Hawaiʻii Community College will begin delivering its fire science program at the Hawaiʻi CC–Pālamanui campus in Kona starting fall 2017.
Hawaiʻi CC began offering an associate of science in fire science in Hilo in 2005. It has become one of the most popular academic programs with 110 fire science majors currently enrolled.
“Our graduates have found employment with local, state and federal agencies, including the Hawaiʻi Fire Department, Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, Pohakuloa Training Area and federal agencies on the mainland,” said Jack Minassian, assistant professor of fire science and the fire science program coordinator. “Numerous county fire personnel have also attended the program to further their education.”
“We are excited to be bringing the fire science program to the Pālamanui campus,” said Marty Fletcher, director of Hawaiʻi CC–Pālamanui. “This will make it more convenient for West Hawaiʻi residents to earn a degree and pursue a career in the fire service.”
Fire science students can earn an associate of science degree and/or a certificate of achievement. The deadline to apply for fall 2017 is August 1, and classes start August 21.
For more information on the fire science program, read the Hawaiʻi CC news release. Prospective students can also contact the Hawaiʻi CC–Pālamanui Office of Student Services at (808) 969-8816 or contact Minassian by email.
—By Thatcher Moats
