The County of Los Angeles Fire Department (LACoFD) is excited to announce a groundbreaking partnership with Purdue Global, an extension of Purdue University’s education programs.
The successful collaboration between the LACoFD and Purdue Global’s College of Social and Behavioral Sciences led to the official launch of this innovative program offering firefighters and working professionals in the fire service extended education opportunities. While careers in the fire service can have high demands, competing priorities, and other challenges, many individuals face barriers in successfully leveraging their education goals and opportunities. This new program offers individuals tools and resources to reduce obstacles that exist in obtaining a degree.
At the heart of this program is the visionary leadership of LACoFD Fire Captain David Parigan who played a pivotal role in developing this transformative program. With an emphasis on bridging the gap between departmental training and academic advancement, Captain Parigan helped structure this program that supports converting training courses into college credits for program participants. Additionally, the initiative offers tuition discounts for LACoFD employees and their spouses, resulting in improved access to higher education.
In his dual role as, both, a fire course instructor and as a student at Purdue Global, Captain Parigan embodies an unwavering commitment to continuous learning and professional growth. While he’s expected to receive his bachelor’s degree this fall with plans on continuing Purdue’s master’s degree program, he continues leading the instruction series for company officers, firefighters, and other professionals to pursue their education goals without reserve. Through his mentorship and educational leadership, Captain Parigan champions continuous development in the fire service, to support all individuals seeking to advance their knowledge and skills.
More details to follow in a forthcoming EA that will be announced in the near future.
The LACoFD sends its heartfelt gratitude to Captain Parigan and Purdue University for making this initiative a priority for all individuals seeking to take advantage of these resources.
