FUNDRD PROGRAMS AWARDED 96/97

Project Title: Technical Instructor Intensive In-Service Training, Environmental Hazardous Materials Program
Project Director: David Mathews
Organization: Victor Valley College
Phone: (760)245-4271,ext.2392

In order to prepare individuals for what has been called "the growth industry of the 90's," Victor Valley College proposes to send a faculty member, Dr. Phronsene Chimiklis, to obtain training to assist with development of an Enviornmental Hazardous Materials Technology Program. The Enviornmentas Hazardous Materials Technology Program will provide training opportunities for hazardous materials handling to enhance the success of individuals for a highly trained workforce for the future. Victor Valley College is located in Victorville in a desert area that is surrounded by mountains. The College's service area has had many accidents of trians and trucks transporting hazardous materials through Interstate 15. In addition, the College has faced the challenge of removing hazardous materials from the campus on an on-going basis. The College's service area contains mostly small and medium-sized businesses who will benefit from the training.

The motivation for the program is a result of public, business, and industry seeking knowledge and education to meet regulatory compliance as indicated in the Economic Advancement Survey. Objectives and activities include in-service training, development of curriculum, integration of academic and vocational education, integration of SCANS competencies in the curriculum, establishment of Hazardous Material Technology Advisory Committee, and linkages with business and industry. The College's commitment is demonstrated by the selection of an outstanding faculty member, Dr. Phronsene Chimiklis, who is committed to obtaining the professional development and training. Dave Mathews, Fire Science Chair, will serve as the Coordinator of the Program.