Photo by Harry Osorio
College of San Mateo (CSM) celebrated the remarkable achievements of its Fire Academy graduates at a heartfelt ceremony held on Thursday, December 12, in the CSM Theater. This milestone event recognized the hard work, dedication, and resilience of the 21 graduates who have completed the rigorous 16-week academy, a cornerstone of CSM’s Fire Technology program.
A Unique Model for Training Excellence
CSM’s Fire Academy is the only California State Fire Marshal-accredited Area Regional Training Program in San Mateo County. Partnering closely with local fire agencies, the Academy has pioneered a unique model where newly hired firefighters train alongside self-sponsored students, offering both groups invaluable real-world experience.
“This academy is a 16-week interview for our students,” said Christy Baird, Fire Technology Coordinator. “The collaboration with county fire agencies ensures our recruits are prepared for the job’s demands while offering our partners an opportunity to see future firefighters in action.”
The graduation marks the culmination of intense training and the beginning of these recruits’ journey to safeguarding our communities.
Recognizing the Graduates
The following students, representing CSM and local fire departments, were celebrated for their hard-earned success:
CSM Self-Sponsored Students:
- Alex Alvarez
- Jerome Aquino
- Diego Baez
- William Bentley
- Gino Bonetti
- Justin Calvert
- Tresson “Tre” Gutierrez
- Bryan Kious
- Miguel Martinez
- David Orozco
- Harry Osorio Santos
- Benjamin Powers
- Alika Woon
San Mateo Consolidated Fire Department:
- Robert Bonnici
- Kristopher Hart
- William Klair III
- William “Billy” Martina
- Michael Rossi
Central County Fire Department:
- Anthony Cairo
- Brianne Parsons
- Marinko Jerkunica
Deep Collaboration with Community Partners
The Fire Academy thrives through the involvement of fire agencies across San Mateo County and beyond, including:
- CALFIRE
- Central County Fire Department
- Colma Fire Department
- Menlo Park Fire Protection District
- North County Fire Authority
- Redwood City Fire Department
- San Bruno Fire Department
- San Mateo Consolidated Fire Department
- South San Francisco Fire Department
- Woodside Fire Protection District
These partnerships ensure the academy’s students receive top-tier instruction from active and retired firefighters across all ranks, preparing them for a seamless transition into professional roles.
Looking Ahead
CSM’s Fire Academy graduates have joined a proud legacy of first responders who dedicate their lives to protecting others. With a curriculum steeped in practical training, the Academy continues to serve as a beacon of excellence for San Mateo County and beyond.
Congratulations to all the graduates for their unwavering commitment to making our communities safer!
Photo by Harry Osorio.