Learn what LAVC has to offer in Criminal Justice, Fire Tech, and EMT training regarding courses, certificates, and degrees from Dr. Cowen, a retired Deputy Fire Chief for the Los Angeles Fire Department. Dr. Cowen will walk us through paramedic history and give advice on how to prepare for the sheriff, police, and fire academies.

1:06 – Watching the traumatic scene of a train crash as a child.

9:59 – First day at the fire academy.

13:31 – Promoting from ambulance driver to paramedic, to Deputy Chief of the LA Fire Department

22:43 – Courses and career opportunities available for Criminal Justice at LAVC.

25:54 – Why get an associate’s or a bachelor’s degree before applying to the academies?

28:14 – The importance of an EMT certificate. After a 16-week course and passing the certification exam make between $50,000 to $70,000 a year.

37:14 – Advice for future firefighters.

41:50 – Understanding background checks for both the police and fire departments.

Producer/Engineer Lisa Darrow

Transcript

L. Denice Labertew, J.D. – Professor of Sociology