Public Safety Showcase Connects Inland Empire Students to Career Pathways

Nearly 800 high school students from 21 schools across the Inland Empire gathered March 12 at the Ben Clark Public Safety Training Center for a hands-on introduction to public safety careers, connecting classroom learning with real-world experience. The annual Public Safety Showcase brought together regional partners including CAL FIRE/Riverside County Fire Department, the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office, and American Medical Response. Throughout the day, students explored pathways in law enforcement, fire service, emergency medical services, and emergency management through live demonstrations and interactive exhibits.

Students engaged directly with professionals while observing specialized units and operations, including aviation, K9, equestrian teams, dive operations, and hazardous materials response. A demonstration jail and physical agility activities provided additional insight into training and daily responsibilities in the field. College leaders emphasized that the event reflects a broader commitment to creating accessible pathways into high-demand careers, highlighting the college’s planned Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management. The degree is designed to align with workforce needs and expand opportunities for students seeking leadership roles in the field.

The program is being developed in consultation with public safety employers to help ensure graduates are prepared with the knowledge and skills needed across agencies. It is intended to serve both students entering the field and working professionals seeking advancement in fire service, law enforcement, and emergency services. Organizers also emphasized that public safety careers extend beyond traditional roles, with opportunities in dispatch, administration, prevention, communications, and technical specialties. The showcase introduced students to the range of positions that support emergency response systems and community safety.

“This event gives students a chance to see what public safety looks like up close and to connect directly with the people doing the work every day,” said Andrew Graham, enrollment services coordinator. “For some, it builds on what they are already studying. For others, it opens the door to something new.”

Regional partners also noted the value of early exposure to career pathways. In a social media post following the event, CAL FIRE/Riverside County Fire Department highlighted the importance of connecting students with professionals and training pathways, noting that experiences like the showcase help bridge the gap between education and public service. 

Students from Fontana Unified School District career technical education programs described the experience as an opportunity to explore specialized fields while gaining a clearer understanding of how their coursework connects to future careers in public service. 

The event is held annually at the Ben Clark Public Safety Training Center, where partnerships between education and public safety agencies continue to support workforce development efforts across the Inland Empire.

Learn more about the Ben Clark campus or more about School of Public Safety programs.