OSU-OKC Fire Science program marks growth milestone

Wednesday, July 9, 2025

Media Contact: Matt Price | Director, Marketing and Communications | 405-945-6733 | matthew.l.price@okstate.edu

Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City’s Fire Science Program is celebrating a major milestone as it prepares to welcome 100 students into its introductory course for the Fall 2025 semester. This achievement reflects years of dedicated effort and strategic growth.

When Joe Bennett took over as program coordinator seven years ago, the program faced significant challenges. Enrollment in the entry-level course had dwindled to just 12 students, and the program lacked dedicated classroom space, training facilities and essential equipment. At the time, its future was uncertain.

“Back then, we were on the verge of being cut due to low enrollment,” Bennett said. “Today, we’re not only surviving — we’re thriving.”

The program’s resurgence is the result of a collaborative effort involving committed instructional staff, strong administrative support, and targeted outreach and marketing. While infrastructure and equipment needs remain, Bennett emphasized the substantial progress made in those areas.

“This growth would not have been possible without the exceptional people behind the scenes,” he said. “I’m incredibly proud of how far we’ve come — and even more excited about where we’re headed.”

The Fire Science Program at OSU-OKC prepares students for careers in fire service and emergency response, offering hands-on training and academic instruction aligned with industry standards. The program has also expanded to cover, in addition to structural firefighting, fire investigation and drone tech. 

For more information about the Fire Science Program, visit the Fire Science page at OSU-OKC's website.