PHSC Cuts Ribbon on Fire Training Facility

On Monday, November 18, leaders from Pasco-Hernando State College hosted a grand opening ribbon-cutting ceremony at PHSC’s East Campus to officially launch their new fire training tower. Alongside the unveiling of the state-of-the-art $4.9 million dollar facility, various individuals involved with the project came forward to speak before cadets carried out a fiery demonstration.

“PHSC strives to stay on the cutting edge in terms of the preparation we provide our students,” said PHSC President Jesse Pisors, Ed.D. “This fire training tower means that the students who go through our fire science program will emerge better prepared for the realities they will face in their work. In addition to serving our students, this facility will allow us to provide ongoing training for professionals from across the state.”

In addition to President Pisors, Ed Blommel (Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Service), David Ray (Division Chief of Training, Pasco County Fire Rescue), and other key figures involved with the programs spoke about the newly completed building.

Towards the tail end of the ceremony, a small group of trainees showed the gathered crowd how to properly handle car and propane fires. Afterwards, the ribbon was officially cut and guests posed for pictures at the training station.

The college’s cutting-edge complex, constructed by Skanska, allows cadets to train for such an eventuality by simulating a real-life building fire. The ability to produce high volumes of smoke to create a low-visibility environment is just one way recruits are able to prepare for fires.

The tower also has thermal couplers that allow it to regulate interior temperature levels up to 800 degrees Fahrenheit so trainees can familiarize themselves with the inferno. The 4,280-foot square, 50-foot tall, five-story building includes burn prop stations, removable walls, a helicopter skid pad for advanced rescue techniques, two classrooms, and two 40-foot storage containers.

Initially conceived in 2015, it took nearly a decade to come to fruition. The training tower is finally available, and not just to students. The four-acre complex is intended for use by local and state fire departments as well.

“We are immensely proud to partner with Pasco-Hernando State College to celebrate the completion of the first phase of the new fire academy and fire training tower. The state-of-the-art facility will provide our current and future first responders with unparalleled training opportunities, ensuring they are well-prepared to protect our communities,” said Daniel Abou-Jaoude, vice president – account manager, Skanska.

PHSC’s well-respected fire program employs instructors from several fire departments from Tampa to Dunedin. The school even enlists the help of multiple former graduates of the college’s fire school, including instructors Joe Clark and Michael Boles.
The tower, as well as previous projects by PHSC, such as the Workforce Development Center, show the college’s dedication to helping locals by training a more prepared workforce in their respective fields.

According to District Board of Trustees Chair Marilyn Pearson-Adams, the state college understands the importance of such programs in developing “essential skills” and providing “economic opportunities for both our students and our communities.”