MOHAVE COUNTY – It’s not every day that a college president suits up in full firefighting gear, crawls through smoke and faces live flames. But that’s exactly what Dr. Tim Culver, Mohave College interim president, did Saturday, Nov. 8 as he joined students in the college’s Fire Science program for a day of intensive hands-on training.
The goal? To experience firsthand the demanding and life-saving skills that fire science students master every semester.
“I wanted to understand what our students truly go through the heat, the pressure, the teamwork,” said Dr. Culver. “You can read about it in a report, but until you’re in that gear, feeling the weight of the equipment and the heat of the fire, you don’t fully grasp the courage and skill it takes to do this work.”
Under the guidance of Fire Science Program Director, Daniel Zandvliet, a firefighter with 25 years of experience, Dr. Culver participated in several key exercises that mirror what recruits face in professional academies. These included:
- Fire behavior simulations in the program’s state-of-the-art burn tower
- Experience live fire conditions in low-visibility, high heat environments
- Hose line advancement and forcible entry exercises
- Learned fire dynamics and behavior
- Completed a ventilation roof drill
- Team communication drills that emphasize safety and coordination under stress
“Dr. Culver went through exactly what our students do,” said Zandvliet. “He had to complete the same physical and mental tests like moving hose lines, navigating smoke and managing his air supply. It’s not easy and he gave it his all. He completed a fire attack entry with the fire located on the second floor of the building and later suppressed a car fire. Our students were really inspired to see their president out there sweating alongside them.”
Dr. Tim Culver, Mohave College Interim President, put on the full firefighter gear to experience what our students learn before going into the firefighting profession.
The fire science program prepares students for dynamic and rewarding careers in firefighting, fire prevention and emergency services. Students can earn an Associate of Applied Science in Fire Science which prepares students for leadership and transfer opportunities, providing a strong foundation for careers such as firefighter, fire protection engineer, EMT, safety technician, inspector and arson investigator.
The College’s Fire Fighter Certificate enhances the knowledge and skills of individuals who are already firefighters. The Fire Officer Certificate is designed to prepare students for a position as a fire captain, training officer or fire investigator.
Graduates are well-prepared to serve in municipal, industrial and wildland firefighting roles. According to recent local data, firefighters in the Mohave County area earn an average of $55,000 to $85,000 annually, with opportunities for advancement and specialized training.
“Our program emphasizes not just physical readiness, but leadership, decision-making, and community service,” said Zandvliet. “It’s about shaping future leaders who will keep our communities safe.”
After completing the training, Dr. Culver reflected on the experience:
“I have a whole new appreciation for our students and the professionals they’re training to become,” he said. “This program is truly exceptional—combining rigorous academics with real-world experience. I couldn’t be prouder of our faculty and students who dedicate themselves to protecting others.”
Prospective students can learn more about the program at Mohave.edu/FireScience.
