Of Interest … College of Lake County

The College of Lake County (CLC) stands out as the only community college in Illinois offering an associate degree in Firefighter Basic Operations that includes a hands-on internship with a local fire department. Since the program started in August 2016, students have found the real-world experience to be incredibly valuable and instrumental in their career development.

Of the 10 CLC students who have completed a two-semester unpaid internship with the Grayslake Fire Protection District, three have been hired as part-time firefighters by the same department. Another four have secured part-time roles with other local fire departments, and one student is now working as a wildland firefighter in Oregon. These outcomes highlight the effectiveness of the program in preparing students for real jobs in the field.

A major advantage of CLC’s fire science technology program is that graduates not only earn an A.A.S. degree but also become eligible for certification at the Fire Basic Operations level through the Illinois State Fire Marshal. In addition, they receive emergency medical technician (EMT) licensure from the Illinois Department of Public Health. This dual certification makes CLC graduates highly competitive in the job market.

The internship program was established through an intergovernmental agreement between CLC and the Grayslake Fire Protection District. Both the college instructors and fire department administrators work closely together, from the interview process to performance evaluations, ensuring that students are well-prepared for their roles.

Grayslake Fire Protection District Chief John Christian praised the program, saying, “CLC students are well-prepared for their internships. They understand our equipment, procedures, and policies. We’re proud to have such a strong partnership with the college.” The Grayslake district serves a population of 37,000 residents and responds to around 4,000 emergency calls annually.

For those interested in joining the program, there are several steps and requirements. Prospective students must first complete the Introduction to Fire Science course as a prerequisite. Additionally, all students are expected to complete the degree within two years to maintain the integrity of the program.