San Diego City Wire

Sixteen young men involved in a joint County Probation and Fire training program sought inspiration from historical figures in first responder careers. Three participants showcased display boards highlighting prominent individuals in fire or law enforcement roles.

San Diego City Fire Chief Robert Logan, the city's third African-American fire chief, addressed two Fire Fuel program academies and a group preparing for a third academy. He shared his career journey with them. The academies offer structured training where in-custody youth learn skills for fire fuel and vegetation management.

"I came from humble beginnings," Logan said. "I always wanted to be a firefighter. I always wanted to help my community."

Logan emphasized the importance of education, recounting how he earned an associate's degree and later pursued bachelor's and master's degrees. His educational achievements played a crucial role when he applied for the fire chief position, despite others with higher ranks also vying for the job.

Supervising Probation Officer Eduardo Calderon mentioned that all students in the Fuel Crew training program are enrolled in college courses, either online or in-person.

One participant will soon receive an associate's degree in communications with a 3.9 GPA from a local community college. Inspired by Chief Logan's educational path, this youth joined the academy "just to build character" and plans to apply his learning elsewhere. He has been accepted at five universities and decided on one outside the county that supports formerly incarcerated students.

Other students are keen on pursuing fire service careers. One youth was particularly influenced by Logan's message about how one's company impacts life choices.

"Being in here, I've noticed that we all have the same focus and we're all here just to better our lives," another youth remarked. "It has inspired me to be more disciplined and focused in my other (outside) life."

Calderon noted that only high school graduates who meet their case-plan expectations are considered for the program. Participants engage in community service projects beyond fire service training, such as food distribution efforts.

San Diego County Fire Capt. Chris Capossere, who teaches the coursework, observed significant personal growth among participants, noting improvements in communication skills and leadership abilities applicable to their future jobs.

From previous academies, one participant was referred to Ventura Training Center's sponsored fire training program while another is being supported through local fire department training. Two more were accepted into a California Department of Corrections firefighting program.

"It's about educating ourselves, and educating others," Probation Chief Tamika Nelson told the group. "I'm very proud of you."