HCC Fire Academy helps close gap in need for firefighters [Video]

TAMPA, Fla. — The Hillsborough Community College (HCC) Fire Academy is helping usher in new generations of firefighters at a time when they’re much needed.

Allison Lasnicki and Ron Rivera are students at HCC’s Fire Academy. Their passion is as clear as their commitment to the cause.

“I love serving my community,” said Rivera. “I think this career is a great honor.”

“I did a lot of ride alongs with the fire department and just really liked the culture, really liked the work, and can see myself doing it,” said Lasnicki.

Students learn everything from personal protective equipment, ladders, hoses, fire behavior, and beyond.

It’s not only physically difficult but also mentally difficult.

“They’ve got to have that level head,” said HCC Fire Academy Program Manager Kevin Reed. “They’ve got to be able to kind of remove themselves from the situation and be able to take control of it, to maintain their composure while dealing with many, many, many …