PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
12/10/2014
Contact:
Sherry Abrams, Director of Public Relations
(706) 583-2552, [email protected]
Firefighter Program to Start in January at Athens Technical College
ATHENS, GA (12/10/2014) – Starting in January, students will have the opportunity to begin
the Firefighter I program at Athens Technical College. Graduates will earn a certificate along
with completing Firefighter Module I, which is required to serve as a volunteer or professional
firefighter.
The Firefighter I program creates a foundation for those seeking experience for a volunteer or
professional fire department, according to Iby George, Fire Science program chair. The
program consists of four courses (Basic Firefighter – Emergency Services Fundamentals, Basic
Firefighter Module I, Basic Firefighter Module II, and Hazardous Materials Operations).
As program chair for Fire Science, George brings over 40 years of experience in fire services. He
was a volunteer firefighter for three years before starting a career in fire science where he
served in leadership roles in Virginia Beach, Va.; Carrboro, NC; and Athens, Ga. George retired
as fire chief from Clarke County.
In addition to the Firefighter I certificate, Athens Technical College also offers an associate
degree and diploma programs in Fire Science, as well as certificates in Basic Fire Company
Officer, Fire Officer I, and Fire Officer II.
“The objective of the Fire Science program is to provide firefighters and fire officers with
educational opportunities that will enhance their service to communities,” said George. “It will
also provide professional growth and development for fire prevention areas.”
To learn more about Firefighter I and the Fire Science program at Athens Technical College,
contact Iby George at (706) 357-0162 or [email protected].
About Athens Technical College: Since 1958, Athens Technical College has served citizens by
providing quality educational programs in a 10-county service area. It offers over 150 program
specializations in business, health, technical, and manufacturing-related areas. Students attend
Athens Technical College on five campuses (Athens-Clarke, Elbert, Greene, Walton Counties
plus the Athens Community Career Academy), Adult Learning Centers, and through Continuing
Education opportunities. Athens Technical College is an Equal Opportunity Institution and a
unit of the Technical College System of Georgia. To learn more about Athens Technical College
visit www.AthensTech.edu.
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