News Article

Edison State College Graduates 34 from Firefighter Certification Program

Dec 15, 2009

~Partnership with North Naples Fire Training Center Provides Certification and Degree Credit~

Naples, FL – On, December 16^th, Edison State College graduated 34 new firefighters from its Firefighter Certification Program: 1 from Charlotte County, 15 from Collier County, and 18 from Lee County.  The program, now heading into its second year, is a partnership between Edison State College and the North Naples Fire Training Center. 

“This partnership between Edison State College and the North Naples Fire Training Center has created a convenient yet intensive program for students,” says Craig Aberbach, Coordinator of Emergency Service Programs at Edison State College.  “While seeking firefighting certification, students also earn credit toward an Associate’s degree in Fire Science Technology, increasing their potential for career advancement.” 

Program graduate candidate Jack Najjour completed his firefighter training while on active duty with the U.S. Army Reserve and holding down a full time job as a Collier County Emergency Services Technician.  When not in class or working, Najjour commutes 5 hours to the U.S. Army Base in Starke, Florida for duty.

“The program at Edison State and the North Naples Fire Department gave me the formal training for the skills I need to protect my community and my country,” said Najjour.  “I look forward to putting my training to work.”

While training to fight fires in Collier County, Najjour has also been training to fight for his country. Within days of graduation, he will leave for an 18 month tour of duty in Iraq, even missing Christmas with family.  Michelle Delaney, Program Coordinator for the North Naples Fire Training Center, says that while Najjour is unique, “All 34 graduates are outstanding, top-notch students.” 

This is the second class to graduate from the program. The program is so highly sought after that the program often has a waiting list.  The training program is open to students throughout Florida.

The Edison State College Firefighter Training and Certification Program meets all state requirements for students seeking to become state certified firefighters. The program runs approximately seven months and classes are held three days per week: Tuesday and Thursday evenings, and Saturdays during the day. The 510-hour class schedule is designed for working people. 

Upon successful completion of the training program, and passing the State written and practical exams, graduates are eligible for a Certificate of Compliance, per Florida Statue 633.34. The Certificate of Compliance is the required certification to work in Florida as a paid Firefighter.

Last Updated: December 15, 2009