Fire Academy students to learn on professional apparatus
Contact: Juliet V. Casey, jcasey@losmedaonos.edu, (925) 473-7322
Pittsburg, Calif. – Los Medanos College (LMC) Fire Academy students this year will benefit from training on a fully-loaded 2009 Hi-Tec Type I Fire Engine.
LMC used California Strong Workforce Program grant funding to purchase the $114,000 engine from the Cordelia Fire Protection District. The engine includes equipment for urban and wildland firefighting, and represents significant cost savings to the college. A new engine of this type would have cost about $800,000 with no equipment on board.
“This acquisition significantly enhances our training capabilities, providing our students with hands-on experience and is an important component in preparing them for real-world firefighting scenarios,” Fire Academy Coordinator Joe Torres said.
LMC President Pamela Ralston praised the acquisition as an example of how local fire departments can partner with the college to ensure a capable and ready workforce.
“This is a fantastic way for us to work together to prepare future firefighters for careers that fill critical needs in our community and that offer students the best opportunities for success once they’re on the job,” she said.
Students in the spring 2026 Fire Academy will be the first to use the newly acquired fire engine for training. They will have completed several pre-requisites for the course, which is accredited by the California State Fire Marshal’s Office.
LMC will showcase the engine in recruitment commercials on social media this fall. The spots will be produced with Fire Academy instructors and graduates and drama students in partnership with 102.9 KBLX-FM radio and social media influencer FRESKA.
Members of the community can get an up-close look at the shiny red engine at the City of Pittsburg Holiday Parade on Dec. 6.