Nearly a dozen College of the Canyons fire technology students have received $1,000 scholarships from Edison International to cover tuition, books and school-related fees.

The students – Nancy Abad, Jake Backes, Michael Boone, Brandon Cockeram, Juan-Pablo Gonzalez, Victor Mere, Jeanette Robinson, Steven Sirk, Christopher Sotelo, and Braiden Swartz– had to have a cumulative GPA of 2.7 or higher, be enrolled in the college’s fire technology program, and respond to four essay questions about their fire service career goals, according to the college.

“2020 is a unique year,” said Keith Kawamoto, chair of the college’s fire technology department. “With the help of Edison’s generous contribution, our students and Fire Technology Program will continue to adapt and overcome. The pandemic changed the way we teach, train, study, and operate. As we emerge from the pandemic, our students will continue to receive the top-quality education and training they deserve.”

The scholarships were awarded through a $25,000 grant from Edison International in support of the college’s development of present and future fire personnel.

“This is COC’s third year receiving Edison’s Fire Technology Grant,” said Kawamoto. “We are extremely fortunate that Edison continues to support Fire and Emergency Services Higher Education. In addition to these scholarship awards, this Edison Fire Technology grant allows us to purchase uniforms for our students, and storage for our firefighting gear and equipment. Edison’s generosity provides our COC Fire Tech Students with resources to help overcome the challenges of 2020 and beyond!”

College of the Canyons offers fire technology courses within the School of Mathematics, Sciences & Health Professions to provide the ample fire department staffing to battle California’s wildfires.

This program offers certificate/degree opportunities for both pre-service individuals and in-service professionals who seek career advancement. COC fire technology courses align with the uniform curriculum laid down by California Community Colleges.

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