Joint Op-Ed by Dr. J.D. Rottweiler and Fire Chief Brian Jones
In today’s rapidly evolving job market, investing in workforce development is more crucial than ever before. Employers need the human capital that can set their organizations up for success. People with skills and knowledge become the raw materials that drive the economy of the 21st century. The need for human capital is most evident in rural areas where recruiting and retention may be limited. As innovation advances at lightning speed, the need for a robust workforce becomes vital.
Here’s why investing to meet local workforce needs is important. Workforce development is not just about filling positions but about preparing individuals for critical roles that drive economic growth and community viability. Cochise College proudly partners with many organizations at the community, county, and state levels. These successful partnerships, built on shared goals, create thriving communities and empower people. Through collaboration, organizations can address their workforce challenges and develop tailored solutions.
One example is the collaboration between Sierra Vista Fire & Medical Services and Cochise College. Together we developed and offered an accelerated Fire Science Training Academy. This academy format provided eight City of Sierra Vista recruits the opportunity to upskill from emergency medical technicians to state-certified firefighters in 8-weeks. These graduates are now working, filling local first responder positions and showcasing the benefits of an effective workforce development program.
Studies and projections indicate a growing challenge in the shortages of emergency medicine technicians, firefighters, and paramedics. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics highlights that the employment of firefighters is expected to grow in Arizona, with many job openings arising from retirements, relocations, or changing occupations. These shortages are magnified in many rural Arizona communities.
Fire departments like Sierra Vista Fire & Medical Services prioritize having well-trained, adaptable personnel ready to safeguard public safety and utilize Cochise College as a tool to develop personnel in all facets. This partnership is making our community a safer place to live. Over 70% of our 45 line fire personnel received their certification from Cochise College. Many firefighters (60%) have upskilled and received certification through the college’s Paramedic program. Advanced credentials are also available through Cochise College, with 82% of Sierra Vista Fire and Medical Services’ employees having received their Driver Operator Certification.
The City’s Emergency Medical Services Division is just six years old, and of the 21 current employees, many received their certifications from Cochise College. Professional development manifests itself through the stackable credentials of EMT, Firefighter I, Firefighter II, and Paramedic, to name a few. Interestingly, two Sierra Vista Fire and Medical Services employees just completed their Registered Nurse certifications through Cochise College’s Nursing Program.
By committing to workforce development and fostering strong community partnerships, we can build a skilled workforce that benefits both the individuals and the communities in which we live. Cochise College will continue to play a pivotal role in workforce development by offering accessible, affordable education and training while being responsive to the challenges employers face in addressing workforce needs.
J.D. ROTTWEILER, Ph.D., is president of Cochise College. Contact him at jdr@cochise.edu.
BRIAN JONES is the Fire Chief for Sierra Vista Fire & Medical Services. Contact him at Brian.Jones@sierravistaaz.gov
J.D. Rottweiler, Ph.D.
Fire Chief Brian Jones