On Campus at GCC: Fire Academy accepting applications

Applications are currently being accepted for the Verdugo Fire Academy Class XVI that begins in January 2013. The application deadline is Oct. 26, 2012.

Programs offered by the VFA include fire technology courses, certificate of completion in fire technology, an associate in science degree in fire technology, Basic Firefighter Academy and California State Fire Training and Education System (CFSTES) courses. Graduates of the Verdugo Basic Firefighter Academy will complete the training portion required for Firefighter I. The Basic Fire Academy is currently offered on Thursday nights and weekends to allow working students to participate.

Those interested in applying to the fire academy are encouraged to attend one of the free VFA monthly recruitment information workshops. The meetings are designed to assist prospective cadets in making an informed decision about joining the Verdugo Fire Academy. Academy staff, instructors and cadets will be available to answer questions and provide one-on-one career guidance.

Upcoming workshops will be held on the following Thursdays: Aug. 7, Sept. 6 and Oct. 4 from 7 to 8 p.m. in room 108 of the Aviation/Art Building on the GCC campus.

The application and information about the application process can be found on the Fire Academy (VFA) website, www.glendale.edu/fire. For more information contact Mirna Najera at 818-240-1000, Ext. 5906.

Community Services Education offers day tours

GCC’s noncredit Community Services Education program offers day tours to a variety of locations of interest. They include round-trip travel on a deluxe, air-conditioned motor coach with a professional tour escort. Most tours depart from the main campus upper parking lot, entered from Mountain Street near the Glendale (2) Freeway.

Upcoming trips this summer include a visit to the Santa Barbara Polo and Racquet Club on Sunday, July 29 for the finals of the America’s Cup. The $79 fee includes a box lunch at the field. On Saturday, Aug. 1 there is a harbor cruise and tour of the U.S.S. Midway in San Diego. The on-hour narrated cruise features views of the Coronado Bridge and the naval ships. Then there is the tour of the U.S.S. Midway, the historic aircraft carrier, which is self-paced with audio. The trip is $89.