Hawaiʻi Community College has enhanced its Fire Science program by adding an emergency medical technician ( EMT ) course to the curriculum, making the program more valuable for students and employers.

“By earning their national registry EMT certification, along with their associate of science degree, students will greatly enhance their employment opportunities with fire service agencies,” said Jack Minassian, assistant professor of fire science. “It’s one more added benefit when they apply for a job, and it’s a big one.”

The EMT courses, taught by instructors David Mendonsa and Daina Leslie Dietz, were added to the Fire Science program thanks to a collaboration with Kapiʻolani Community College.

Established in 2005, the Fire Science program has become one of the most popular academic programs at Hawaiʻi CC , with 98 students currently enrolled.

In five semesters, students can earn an associate of science degree. Hawaiʻi CC fire science graduates have found employment with federal, state and local fire service agencies.

For the full story visit the Hawaiʻi CC website.

—By Thatcher Moats