News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
2020-12-16-firetech
December 16, 2020
Edison Awards Fire Tech Scholarships
Ten 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.
“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.