Florida Fire Service Training Award Highlights Seminole State's Achievement

Seminole State College of Florida’s Fire Science Program Manager and Professor Shellie Lewis has been honored with the Florida Fire Service Training and Education Provider of the Year Award, a distinguished accolade that recognizes outstanding contributions to firefighter training sites and education in the state of Florida. This award highlights the dedication and impact of organizations and individuals in equipping Florida’s firefighters with the knowledge and skills they need to save lives and protect communities.

The Florida Fire Service Training and Education Provider of the Year Award celebrates organizations that go above and beyond in their commitment to firefighter education. The award is presented by the Florida Fire Training Directors Association, in which Lewis serves as treasurer. After years of successful graduations and certifications, Lewis felt compelled to honor Seminole State’s fire science program’s hard work by submitting an application. 

As part of the submission process, Shellie prepared a detailed and compelling summary of the fire science program at Seminole State College. Key highlights included praise for outstanding leadership and faculty, such as former Program Manager Jim Jollie, who “played a transformative role in enhancing the Fire Training Center in 2012,” according to Lewis. She also emphasized the facility enhancements, training innovations, student support, program expansion and graduation rates that have made the program a standout. Notably, over the past 10 years, 39 Seminole State fire academies have produced 905 certified firefighters, with an impressive 97% pass rate on the State of Florida certification exams.

Reflecting on this achievement, Lewis stated, “Seminole State College of Florida’s Fire Academy remains dedicated to providing the highest quality training and education for future firefighters, ensuring that our graduates are well prepared to meet the challenges of the fire service profession.” The award will be presented in April by the Florida Fire Training Directors Association and other officials, including the governor of Florida, Ron DeSantis. 

This award serves as a testament to the dedication and excellence that define Seminole State College’s fire science program, solidifying its reputation as a leader in firefighter education.