Events
Public Safety Officials Commemorate 9/11 with Tribute to First Responders
With a special tribute to the victims and heroes of that day, along with recognition of the first responders who risk their lives every day – here in our community and elsewhere. The event focused on Wake Tech’s highly-acclaimed public safety education programs as the college celebrates its 50th anniversary.
“To those of you in public safety, I say thank you every day,” said Dr. Stephen Scott, President of Wake Tech. Campus Dean Angela Mizelle paid tribute to those who lost their lives on 9/11 and pledged to ensure that local first responders are well-trained to keep our community safe. “This campus opened in 2008 to provide the latest in technology and training techniques for law enforcement, fire, EMS and other public safety professionals,” said Mizelle. “As we complete the final phase of renovation to this facility, we’ll make sure that it stays on the cutting-edge.”
Speakers included representatives from area police, fire and EMS departments as well as the NC Department of Corrections. Fuquay-Varina Police Chief Larry Smith said, “Wake Tech is one of our most important partners.” Garner Fire Chief Matt Poole thanked Wake Tech for providing critical training. “Every firefighter in Wake County has been helped by Wake Tech’s training,” said Poole.
The ceremony also included remarks by Wake Tech graduate and Wake Tech Foundation Board member Barry Long, on behalf of the 200 Club of Wake County. The club provides benefits for public safety officers killed in the line of duty.
After the ceremony, representatives from area agencies placed roses in remembrance of fallen officers at the campus’s Memorial Wall. Participants were invited to tour the campus and get a first-hand look at emergency vehicles, both vintage and modern, that were staged in the parking lot. Wake Tech trains about 8,000 law enforcement personnel each year, including those from local police departments, the Wake County Sheriff’s Office, the State Bureau of Investigation, and the NC Department of Public Safety. About 75 students also enroll in Wake Tech’s Basic Law Enforcement Training Program each year. The Wake Tech Public Safety Training Academy is accredited by CALEA®, the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies. Wake Tech’s Campus Police department is celebrating its one year anniversary of service to the college.
