OTC Foundation receives gift of fire engine and pumper for Fire Science Technology program

The OTC Foundation, the fundraising arm of Ozarks Technical Community College, has received a gift of a 1979 Hendricks Hammerly pumper and fire engine from Jon’s Mid-America Fire Apparatus and its president, Jim Keltner.  The fire engine will be used in training students in the Fire Science Technology program at OTC.  A dedication event will be held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, February 1, in the automotive lab, located in room 115 of the Industry and Transportation Technology Center at the OTC Springfield Campus.

“We are grateful for this gift to our Fire Science Technology program, and for the opportunities this will provide for our students,” said Dr. Hal Higdon, chancellor of Ozarks Technical Community College. “The hands-on training they will receive through this pumper and fire engine will be invaluable in preparing them for the workforce.”

“This gift from Jim Keltner and Jon’s Mid-America Fire Apparatus is deeply appreciated,” added Cliff Davis, vice chancellor for Advancement | Workforce Development and executive director of the OTC Foundation. “Having the right equipment is crucial to OTC’s ability to provide our students with the training they need.”

The OTC Foundation, now in its 14^th year of operation, works to meet the ever-increasing needs of Ozarks Technical Community College through the funding of scholarships, new programs, and capital improvement projects.  The current Major Gifts Capital Campaign includes efforts to raise money for scholarships, as well as for a Center for Health Education, Student Support programs, and Workforce Development.