COLORADO SPRINGS, CO, November 6, 2023 – Pikes Peak State College, along with the Monument Fire District and Black Forest Fire Rescue, proudly announce the upcoming launch of a joint Fire Academy. The inaugural class is set to begin in January 2024. This landmark partnership underscores an unprecedented alliance among the region’s foremost fire safety and educational institutions.

Local media and community partners are invited to join all three organizations for a ribbon cutting ceremony and press conference at 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 16 at Black Forest Fire Rescue Station 1, 11445 Teachout Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80908.

Groundbreaking Collaboration to Forge the Next Generation of Firefighters

The partnership initiating the January 2024 Fire Academy signals a historic collective commitment to advancing public safety. Leveraging the combined resources and expertise of Pikes Peak State College, Monument Fire District, and Black Forest Fire Rescue, the academy is designed to deliver unparalleled
training and education to equip aspiring firefighters with the skills and knowledge they need to serve and protect the community effectively.

Why This Matters: Elevating Community Safety Through Education

The establishment of the 2024 Fire Academy is a pivotal step in our joint mission to nurture cadets into highly skilled, adept firefighters ready to meet the demands of a rapidly changing world. The synergy of academic rigor from Pikes Peak State College and the tactical proficiency of Monument Fire District and Black Forest Fire Rescue aims to create a robust training program that is as comprehensive as it is cutting-
edge.

Looking Ahead: A Beacon of Safety and Excellence

The anticipation for the Fire Academy goes beyond a single program; it heralds the dawn of a series of initiatives aimed at fortifying our community’s resilience. This is more than an academy—it is a promise of a safer, brighter future, forged through solidarity and shared purpose.

For more information:

Pikes Peak State College Fire Science Technology Programs: PikesPeak.edu/fire-science-technology

Monument Fire District Website: MonumentFire.org

Black Forest Fire Rescue Website: BFFire.org

Quotes from organizational leadership:

Quote from Monument Fire District Chief, Andy Kovacs:

“Our partnership with Pikes Peak State College and Black Forest Fire Rescue is a testament to what we can achieve when we pool our knowledge for the greater good. The Fire Academy will be a beacon of hope and a stronghold of safety for the community.”

Quote from Black Forest Fire Rescue Chief, PJ Langmaid:

“Black Forest Fire Rescue believes that to take care of the community with the highest standards possible, we need to train at the highest levels possible and have the best strategic relationships possible. The intent and implementation of this Joint Fire Academy achieves these goals by having high standards and mutually
supporting relationships.”

Quote from Pikes Peak State College President, Dr. Lance Bolton:

“We envision the Fire Academy as a place where the values of leadership, courage, and community service are not just taught, but lived. Our students will be the embodiment of these values, prepared to tackle any challenges with intelligence, strategy, and heart.”

About Pikes Peak State College:

Established in 1968 and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Pikes Peak offers associate degrees, certifications in career and technical fields and three bachelors’ degrees. With three campuses, various off-campus locations, two military education centers, and hundreds of online classes, PPSC provides access
to a quality, affordable and flexible education to more than 18,000 students annually with both credit and non-credit classes.

About Monument Fire District:

The Monument Fire District is on a mission to serve and safeguard the community, responding to each call with unwavering dedication. Their vision encompasses progress while respecting time- honored traditions. Guided by the values of Character, Connection, and Commitment, they strive to serve with integrity, foster meaningful relationships, and ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals within the community they serve.

About Black Forest Fire Rescue:

Black Forest Fire Rescue is committed to safeguarding the community with compassion and professionalism. Their vision, “Always Ready. Always Forward. Always Learning,” reflects their continuous commitment to readiness and growth. Guided by values like Duty, Honor, Integrity, Humility, and Discipline, they serve the community with unwavering dedication.

Media Contacts:

Pikes Peak State College Press Contact:

Matt Radcliffe
PPSC Marketing and Communications Director,
matt.radcliffe@pikespeak.edu, mobile: 719-726-0538

Monument Fire District Press Contact:

Jonathan Bradley
Division Chief of Operations,
jbradley@monumentfire.org, 719-484-0911

Black Forest Fire Rescue Press Contact:

Brooke Reid,
Director of Public Relations,
Brooke.Reid@bffire.org, 719-495-4300