IONE, CA — Yesterday, the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) again partnered with the Torlakson Whole Child Institute (TWCI) to host a middle school career exploration field trip at CAL FIRE’s Ione Training Center. This is the second collaboration between the two organizations, continuing the shared mission to spark early interest in career paths in the fire service that do not require a traditional college degree. The Ione Training Center welcomed students from Magnolia Intermediate School in Grass Valley who participated in hands-on activities and interacted directly with CAL FIRE professionals from various fields, which included Fire Technology, Emergency Dispatch, Building Trades, and Natural Resource Management. Each activity offered practical insight into the skills, responsibilities, and training associated with each field. Throughout the day, additional CAL FIRE professionals, from administrative, culinary, heavy equipment mechanics, heavy equipment operators, and logistics, lead the groups, answered questions, and shared their experiences. (more in alt text) #CALFIRE #education