Since the early 1970's the California State Fire Marshal
(CSFM) has certified recruit fire fighter Academies. The Verdugo Fire Academy has evolved from one of the first Academies in
California, and offers the experience gained to the firefighters of the
future. The Academy has changed sponsors, and even names, over the
years, but many of the same dedicated instructors continue to serve you.
The average length of experience of our instructors is eighteen years in
the fire service.
The
Academy was originally co-sponsored by the Pasadena Fire Department and
Pasadena Community College (PCC). Battalion Chief Victor Stephens headed
the PCC Fire Technology Department beginning in the mid 1960's, and
participated in the Academy's development. The first Pasadena Fire
Academy was offered in 1974 under the direction of Captain Roy Kline,
Task Force Commander, from the Los Angeles City Fire Department.
In
1987, the Pasadena Unified School District and Los Angeles County Office
of Education Regional Occupation Program replaced PCC. The Academy was
accepted into the Fire Technology Program at Glendale Community College
in 1998.
The
original CSFM curriculum was 240 hours. Through the years, developments
in the CSFM-approved curriculum, as well as advances in the fire service
profession, have mandated an increase in hours and introduction of new
disciplines. In addition, outside influences, such as Cal OSHA, have had
a direct effect on what must be taught to recruit fire fighters. In
order to enhance job safety, trainees must learn about Hazardous
Materials, Confined Spaces, Bloodborne Pathogens, and other topics. The Verdugo Fire Academy curriculum reflects these new
standards.
The
goal of the Academy, however, is to do more than meet the standards.
We strive to assist students in becoming the most competitive candidates
possible. Therefore, additional certification classes are included
in the program. Changes in the CSFM curriculum and these certificate
programs result in over 780 hours of instruction and practice for the
recruit level academy.
The
staff and instructors of the Academy are here because of the students we
serve. We look forward to having you join our
program, our community, and our profession.
