Fire Technology March 2012 Needs Assessment

Fire Technology March 2012 Needs Assessment Prepared by Elisa Lewis Date: March 30, 2012 Fire Technology 1

Scope Data compiled in this report covers San Bernardino, Riverside, Orange, and Los Angeles counties. Data were drawn from external sources, including the Employment Development Department s California Labor Market Information and the U.S. Department of Education s Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), as well as Chaffey College s Colleague Administrative database. Data Sources and Calculations Educational Program Data TOP Code Program of Study 2133.00 Fire Technology The Taxonomy of Programs (TOP) is a standardized system used at the state level to classify programs and courses at California Community Colleges that are intended to achieve the same outcome. The Fire Technology program at Chaffey College is classified under the Fire Technology TOP code. CIP Code Program of Study 430203 Fire Science/Firefighting The Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) is a standardized coding system used at the federal level to facilitate accurate tracking, assessment, and reporting of fields of study and program completion at educational institutions throughout the country. This report draws on the Fire Science/Firefighting CIP code, which maps to the Fire Technology Applications TOP code, to compare Chaffey College to other institutions and examine employment trends. Completions Data Degree and certificate data regarding students at Chaffey College were collected from the Colleague Administrative database. Degree and certificate data for all comparison schools were collected from the U.S. Department of Education s Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). All comparison institutions included in this report are postsecondary and have provided data to IPEDS. IPEDS defines postsecondary education as a formal program designed primarily for students beyond high school age. These include academic, vocational, and continuing professional education, and exclude avocational and adult basic education programs. Occupational Data SOC Code Occupational Title 332011 Fire Fighters 332021 Fire Inspectors and Investigators 332022 Forest Fire Inspectors and Prevention Specialists The Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) system is used by federal statistical agencies to classify workers into occupational categories. The Fire Science/Firefighting CIP code was mapped to the three SOC codes listed in the table above using the crosswalk described in the paragraph below. 2

Educational Program to Occupation Crosswalk The TOP-CIP-SOC Crosswalk (Employment Development Department, 2007) was used in this report to map TOP codes to CIP and SOC codes. This crosswalk allows the user to estimate labor market demand for California Community College program completers using SOC-based projections from the California Labor Market Information Division. Industry Data The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) is used by federal statistical agencies to classify business establishments for the purpose of conducting and reporting research on the U.S. business economy. The Standard Occupation Classification codes are mapped to industry data by the California Labor Market Information Division. Industry information is used to geographically map the business locations of potential employers as well as to observe trends across the industries that employ the occupations identified above. 3

Introduction and Contents Contents Background Information 5 Regional Job Outlook 8 Largest and Fastest Growing Industry Employers 11 Regional Graduation Summary 13 Chaffey College s Performance on Core Indicators 14 Map of Employers and Competitor Institutions 15 Purpose and Goals Chaffey College currently offers an Associate in Science degree and Certificate program in Fire Technology, each comprised of 20-24 units. The following is a description of the Fire Technology program as outlined in the 2011-12 Catalog: The Fire Technology degree and certificate programs are designed to (1) prepare interested students for careers in public or private fire service, (2) provide existing fire service personnel with continuing in-service training in skills applicable to their present position, (3) provide existing fire service personnel with upgraded skills needed to avail themselves of promotional opportunities, and (4) for college transfer students pursuing a higher education degree in Fire Protection Administration and Technology. The purpose of this report is to integrate and analyze data from multiple sources to determine labor market needs for the Fire Technology program at Chaffey College. Regional Definitions Inland Empire includes the Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) Los Angeles County includes the Los Angeles- Long Beach-Glendale Metropolitan Division Orange County includes the Santa Ana- Anaheim-Irvine Metropolitan Division Key Terms and Concepts Replacement Jobs: Replacement jobs refer to the number of job openings due to workers leaving an occupation. Annual Openings: Annual openings are calculated by adding the number of new jobs to the number of replacement jobs, divided by the number of years in the projection period. Projections: Projections of employment are calculated by the Employment Development Department and are based on a mathematical formula that includes historical employment and economic indicators along with national, state, and local trends. Occupation: Jobs are grouped into occupations using the federal Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) system. Industry: Occupations are grouped into industries using the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS). Wages: Hourly wages are reported in percentiles and averages. The 25 th percentile is a useful proxy of entry-level wages and the 75 th percentile of experienced-level wages. 4

Background Information Fire Technology Fire Technology programs in California Community Colleges focus on teaching principles and techniques of preventing, controlling and extinguishing fires, including firefighter operations, maintenance of firefighting equipment, fire rescue procedures, and applicable laws and regulations. 1 The descriptions of job duties for Fire Technology-related occupations are provided by the Occupational Information Network. 2 Fire Fighters 2 Fire Fighters control and extinguish fires or respond to emergency situations where life, property, or the environment is at risk. Duties may include fire prevention, emergency medical service, hazardous material response, search and rescue, and disaster assistance. Typical Tasks for Municipal Firefighters Rescue victims from burning buildings and accident sites. Search burning buildings to locate fire victims. Administer first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation to injured persons. Dress with equipment such as fire resistant clothing and breathing apparatus. Drive and operate fire fighting vehicles and equipment. Move toward the source of a fire using knowledge of types of fires, construction design, building materials, and physical layout of properties. Respond to fire alarms and other calls for assistance, such as automobile and industrial accidents. Assess fires and situations and report conditions to superiors to receive instructions, using two-way radios. Position and climb ladders to gain access to upper levels of buildings, or to rescue individuals from burning structures. Create openings in buildings for ventilation or entrance, using axes, chisels, crowbars, electric saws, or core cutters. Typical Tasks for Forest Firefighters Collaborate with other firefighters as a member of a firefighting crew. Extinguish flames and embers to suppress fires, using shovels, or engine- or handdriven water or chemical pumps. Test and maintain tools, equipment, jump gear and parachutes to ensure readiness for fire suppression activities. Maintain contact with fire dispatchers at all times to notify them of the need for additional firefighters and supplies, or to detail any difficulties encountered. Rescue fire victims, and administer emergency medical aid. Establish water supplies, connect hoses, and direct water onto fires. Patrol burned areas after fires to locate and eliminate hot spots that may restart fires. Inform and educate the public about fire prevention. Participate in physical training to maintain high levels of physical fitness. Orient self in relation to fire, using compass and map, and collect supplies and equipment dropped by parachute. 5

1 California Community Colleges, Chancellor s Office, Taxonomy of Programs, Sixth Edition (Corrected Version). 2 O*Net Online: http://online.onetcenter.org/find Fire Inspectors and Investigators 2 Fire Inspectors inspect buildings and equipment to detect fire hazards and enforce state and local regulations. Fire Investigators conduct investigations to determine causes of fires and explosions Typical Tasks for Fire Inspectors Inspect buildings to locate hazardous conditions and fire code violations such as accumulations of combustible material, electrical wiring problems, and inadequate or non-functional fire exits. Present and explain fire code requirements and fire prevention information to architects, contractors, attorneys, engineers, developers, fire service personnel, and the general public. Identify corrective actions necessary to bring properties into compliance with applicable fire codes, laws, regulations, and standards, and explain these measures to property owners or their representatives. Attend training classes to maintain current knowledge of fire prevention, safety, and firefighting procedures. Conduct fire code compliance follow-ups to ensure that corrective actions have been taken in cases where violations were found. Write detailed reports of fire inspections performed, fire code violations observed, and corrective recommendations offered. Inspect properties that store, handle, and use hazardous materials to ensure compliance with laws, codes, and regulations, and issue hazardous materials permits to facilities found in compliance. Develop or review fire exit plans. Inspect and test fire protection or fire detection systems to verify that such systems are installed in accordance with appropriate laws, codes, ordinances, regulations, and standards. Conduct inspections and acceptance testing of newly installed fire protection systems. 2 O*Net Online: http://online.onetcenter.org/find 6

Typical Tasks for Fire Investigators Examine fire sites and collect evidence such as glass, metal fragments, charred wood, and accelerant residue for use in determining the cause of a fire. Photograph damage and evidence related to causes of fires or explosions to document investigation findings. Analyze evidence and other information to determine probable cause of fire or explosion. Package collected pieces of evidence in securely closed containers such as bags, crates, or boxes, to protect them. Testify in court cases involving fires, suspected arson, and false alarms. Prepare and maintain reports of investigation results, and records of convicted arsonists and arson suspects. Subpoena and interview witnesses, property owners, and building occupants to obtain information and sworn testimony. Coordinate efforts with other organizations such as law enforcement agencies. Swear out warrants, and arrest and process suspected arsonists. Test sites and materials to establish facts, such as burn patterns and flash points of materials, using test equipment. Forest Fire Inspectors and Prevention Specialists 2 Fire Inspectors inspect buildings and equipment to detect fire hazards and enforce state and local regulations. Fire Investigators conduct investigations to determine causes of fires and explosions Typical Tasks for Fire Investigators Relay messages about emergencies, accidents, locations of crew and personnel, and fire hazard conditions. Direct crews working on firelines during forest fires. Estimate sizes and characteristics of fires, and report findings to base camps by radio or telephone. Administer regulations regarding sanitation, fire prevention, violation corrections, and related forest regulations. Extinguish smaller fires with portable extinguishers, shovels, and axes. Locate forest fires on area maps, using azimuth sighters and known landmarks. Maintain records and logbooks. Examine and inventory firefighting equipment such as axes, fire hoses, shovels, pumps, buckets, and fire extinguishers in order to determine amount and condition. Direct maintenance and repair of firefighting equipment, or requisition new equipment. Restrict public access and recreational use of forest lands during critical fire seasons. 2 O*Net Online: http://online.onetcenter.org/find 7

Regional Job Outlook Projected Regional Job Outlook The table below displays 2008 employment estimates and 2018 projections for Fire Technology-related jobs. Job openings for Fire Fighters are on the rise in all regions of interest. With the exception of Los Angeles County projections for Fire Inspectors and Investigators, there is no available projection information for Fire Inspectors and Investigators and Forest Fire Inspectors and Prevention Specialists. Total Estimated 2008 Jobs Total Projected 2018 Jobs Projected Growth (%) Ave. Annual New Job Openings Ave. Annual Replacement Job Openings Ave. Annual Total Job Openings Fire Fighters State of California 34,600 40,300 5,700 (16.5%) 570 1,060 1,630 Inland Empire 3,260 3,780 520 (16.0%) 52 100 152 Los Angeles CO 7,930 9,440 1,510 (19.0%) 151 244 395 Orange CO 2,070 2,430 360 (17.4%) 36 63 99 Fire Inspectors and Investigators State of California N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Inland Empire N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Los Angeles CO 210 220 10 (4.8%) 1 7 8 Orange CO N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Forest Fire Inspectors and Prevention Specialists State of California N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Inland Empire N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Los Angeles CO N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Orange CO N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Source: Labor Market Information Division, Employment Development Department, Occupation Profile, on the Internet at: http://www.labormarketinfo.edd.ca.gov/ (visited March 30, 2012). 8

Projected Regional Job Growth The graphs below show the projected growth from 2008 to 2018 of Fire Technology-related jobs. As the graphs show, the number of Fire Fighters jobs is expected to grow across all regions of interest. Fire Inspectors and Investigators jobs are expected to grow in Los Angeles County. Projections are not available for Forest Fire Inspectors and Prevention Specialists. Fire Fighters % Growth 50 40 30 20 10 0 California Inland Empire Los Angeles County Orange County % Growth 6.00% 4.00% 2.00% 0.00% Fire Inspectors and Investigators Los Angeles Source: Labor Market Information Division, Employment Development Department, Occupation Profile, on the Internet at: http://www.labormarketinfo.edd.ca.gov/ (visited March 30, 2012). 9

Regional Hourly Wages This table displays the First Quarter of 2011 hourly wage statistics of Fire Technology-related jobs. Los Angeles County appears to be the most lucrative area for Fire Fighters. Fire Inspectors and Investigators earn more in Orange County than in the Inland Empire. An employee in one of these jobs can expect to earn anywhere from $19/hr to $56/hr, depending on the specific job and the employee s level of experience. Mean Hourly Rate 25 th Percentile Median Hourly Rate 75 th Percentile Fire Fighters State of California $34.04 $24.06 $33.02 $43.22 Inland Empire $28.58 $19.74 $26.83 $35.30 Los Angeles CO $46.28 $37.50 $48.16 $56.15 Orange CO $33.66 $26.71 $31.95 $38.73 Fire Inspectors and Investigators State of California $30.89 $21.73 $22.59 $39.37 Inland Empire $25.52 $22.58 $22.59 $24.17 Los Angeles CO N/A N/A N/A N/A Orange CO $37.92 $31.49 $38.41 $44.31 Forest Fire Inspectors and Prevention Specialists State of California $35.00 $31.49 $34.56 $38.57 Inland Empire N/A N/A N/A N/A Los Angeles CO $38.96 $32.59 $35.69 $41.66 Orange CO N/A N/A N/A N/A Source: Labor Market Information Division, Employment Development Department, Occupation Profile, on the Internet at: http://www.labormarketinfo.edd.ca.gov/ (visited March 30. 2012). 10

Largest and Fastest Growing Industry Employers Largest Industry Employers of Fire Technology-Related Occupations The graphs below display the 2008 staffing patterns of the largest industries employing Fire Technologyrelated occupations across the state of California. Each of these occupations is primarily employed by the Local Government. Number of Employees 35,000 30,000 25,000 20,000 15,000 10,000 5,000 0 Fire Fighters Local Government State Government Federal Government Number of Employees 1,000 800 600 400 200 0 Fire Inspectors and Investigators Local Government Number of Employees 120 100 80 60 40 20 0 Forest Fire Inspectors and Prevention Specialists Local Government Source: Labor Market Information Division, Employment Development Department, Staffing Patterns, on the Internet at: http://www.labormarketinfo.edd.ca.gov/iomatrix/staffing-patterns1.asp (visited March 30, 2012). 11

Change Over Time of the Largest Industry Employers of Fire Technology-Related Occupations The graphs below display projections of staffing changes from 2008-2018 of the largest industries employing Fire Technology-related occupations in the state of California. Forest Fire Inspectors and Prevention Specialists project no staffing changes. 20.0 Fire Fighters Percent Change 15.0 10.0 5.0 0.0 Local Government State Government Federal Government Percent Change 14.0 12.0 10.0 8.0 6.0 4.0 2.0 0.0 Fire Inspectors and Investigators Local Government Percent Change 1.0 0.8 0.6 0.4 0.2 0.0 Forest Fire Inspectors and Prevention Specialists Local Government Source: Labor Market Information Division, Employment Development Department, Staffing Patterns, on the Internet at: http://www.labormarketinfo.edd.ca.gov/iomatrix/staffing-patterns1.asp (visited March 30, 2012). Other Industries with Growth in Fire Technology-Related Occupations No additional industries are associated with Fire Technology-related occupations. 12

Regional Graduation Summary Education and Training 3 Education and training requirements for Fire Technology-related occupations vary. Municipal Fire Fighters, Fire Inspectors and Investigators, and Forest Fire Inspectors and Prevention Specialists jobs require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree. A Forest Fire Fighter career usually requires a high school diploma. Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations. Regional Completers in Fire Science/Firefighting Programs The table below displays the number of program completers in the 2010-11 academic year at regional institutions offering Fire Prevention and Safety Technology/Technician programs. Besides Chaffey College, there are 22 institutions offering degrees or certificates below the baccalaureate level across the four county region. Institution Name < 1 year Certificate 1 to < 2 year Certificate Award Level Associate s Degree 2 to < 4 year Certificate Chaffey College 9 -- 10 -- Antelope Valley College 10 -- 14 -- Barstow Community College -- -- 2 -- College of the Canyons 17 -- 35 -- College of the Desert 4 -- 3 -- Copper Mountain Community College -- -- 1 -- Crafton Hills College -- -- 23 -- East Los Angeles College 2 -- 7 -- El Camino College Compton Center -- -- 2 -- El Camino Community College District 5 -- 23 -- Glendale Community College 5 12 4 -- Long Beach City College 13 -- 15 -- Los Angeles Harbor College --- -- 8 -- Los Angeles Valley College -- 1 15 -- Moreno Valley College 14 -- 17 -- Mt San Antonio College 7 -- 45 -- Mt San Jacinto Community College District -- 5 12 -- Pasadena City College -- 4 -- -- 3 Labor Market Info, Employment Development Department, California Occupational Guides, on the Internet at: http://www.labormarketinfo.edd.ca.gov/occguides/ (visited March 30, 2012). 13

Rio Hondo College 71 -- 59 -- Riverside City College 5 -- 3 -- Santa Ana College 69 -- 77 -- Victor Valley College -- -- 23 -- West Los Angeles College 1 -- 1 -- Total 232 22 399 0 Note: -- indicates that this type of degree is not offered. 0 indicates that this degree/certificate level is offered but no degrees or certificates were granted. Source: National Center for Education Statistics, U.S. Department of Education, Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System, on the Internet at: http://www.nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/ (visited March 30, 2012) Chaffey College s Performance on Core Indicators The Perkins IV Career and Technical Education Improvement Act of 2006 mandates that all state and local postsecondary institutions provide data on six core performance indicators for their career and technical education programs. These indicators are: 1) Technical Skill Attainment; 2) Completions; 3) Persistence and Transfer; 4) Employment; 5) Non-traditional Participation; and 6) Non-traditional Completion. Performance goals are set at the state and local levels and progress is monitored based on a comparison between the actual percentage of students who master each performance area and the negotiated levels of performance. 2010-11 Chaffey College Performance on Core Indicators The table below displays negotiated and actual core performance indicator levels for all Chaffey College students classified under the Fire Technology Applications TOP code. These students performed above district negotiated levels on Core Indicator 3: Persistence and Transfer. Core Performance Indicators Negotiated Level State District Chaffey College Performance Percent Above or Below District Negotiated Level Fire Technology Core 1 Technical Skill Attainment 88.82% 88.82% 85.71% -3.1% Core 2 Completions- Credential, Certificate, Degree, or Transfer Ready 80.93% 76.88% 72.22% -4.7% Core 3 Persistence and Transfer 85.86% 85.86% 88.89% 3.0% Core 4 Employment 81.48% 81.48% 73.33% -8.1% Core 5a Non-traditional Participation 22.08% 20.53% 3.17% -17.4% Core 5b Non-traditional Completions 25.00% 22.75% 0.00% -22.8% Source: CA Community Colleges Reporting Services, Fire Technology, College Core Indicator Information by 6-Digit TOP (Fiscal Planning Year 2012-13) 14

Map of Competitor Institutions The Local Government employs the largest numbers of Fire Technology program graduates in the state of California. The locations of Chaffey College and other competitor institutions offering degrees or certificates in Fire Technology programs are mapped below. 15