I just got off the phone with Andy Hilk, who filled me in on some exciting developments at the Technology Center of DuPage (TCD), where he teaches fire science to high school students. It's a Career and Technical Education (CTE) program designed for juniors and seniors in DuPage County, with around 1,100 students attending either morning or afternoon sessions. They offer a wide range of programs, including Fire Science/EMT, Criminal Justice, Auto Body, Construction, and more.
Over the weekend, TCD held its annual expo at their location on Swift Road in Addison, and it was quite the event! The students put together an impressive mock crash scenario in the parking lot, with assistance from the Addison Fire Protection District. Last year, the Wood Dale Fire Department generously donated two vehicles to the center—a classic 1980s Pierce Dash engine and a Ford/Wheeled Coach ambulance. These rigs have since been repainted with TCD branding and a nod to their origins with the Wood Dale Fire Department.
Seeing these photos really brings it all home—there’s one image of students simulating a crash rescue, another showing the former Wood Dale fire engine, and a couple others featuring the donated ambulance. It’s clear how much effort and dedication goes into making these learning experiences as realistic as possible. The students seem incredibly engaged, and it’s heartening to see such collaboration between local fire departments and educational institutions.
It’s not every day you get to witness something like this, especially when it involves real-world training tools like those donated by Wood Dale. The hands-on experience must be invaluable for these young learners, preparing them for careers in emergency services. It makes me wonder what other initiatives like this are out there—it’s inspiring stuff!
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