Hawai‘i Community College Fire Science Program

Dalyn Kupuka‘a is a 2015 Kohala High School graduate who loves the ocean and cares deeply about his community. Because the fire science student at Hawai‘i Community College strives for excellence in the classroom so he can serve Hawai‘i Island, he has received the Robert Hickox Memorial Scholarship from the Hawai‘i Island Safety & Security Professionals Association.

What led to your pursuit of fire science studies?

At Kohala High School, I was convinced to enroll in the Hawai‘i Community Fire Science Program when I was in my health class in high school, by our guest speakers from the Kohala fire department. 

What advice do you have for people interested in studying fire science?

There’s a lot of hands-on work, and fun information to learn. It may sound hard, but it is worth the effort and it’s good for your community. You could be one of those people who saved that one patient, and then all the schooling you went through will be for a good reason. 

How does this scholarship make a difference in your education?

My career goal is to be an EMT and firefighter on the Big Island of Hawai‘i. My self-confidence, motivation, and willingness to help people will suit me for this career. My challenge will be mentally preparing to help the injured.

This scholarship has a big impact on my studies. It helps me pursue my studies more and finish my education. I’m so grateful for this assistance.  

What’s your go-to order at Ken’s House of Pancakes? 

The macadamia nut pancakes. That's the bomb stuff there!

The Hawai‘i Island Safety & Security Professionals Association provides professional development, training and networking for safety and security professionals in the visitor industry and our ports of entry.  It works with law enforcement, emergency response agencies and affiliated non-profit community organizations to serve the needs of residents within our resort communities, and more than 1.5 million annual visitors.

“Robert Hickox was a very important part of our team,” says Paola Pagan, HISSPA President and Board Chair. “He served many years as a member, officer and director. In his honor, the organization established the Robert Hickox Memorial Scholarship.”

One of HISSPA’s goals is to support and provide continuing educational opportunities for students interested in administration of justice, fire science, EMT programs and security guard training.  HISSPA proudly supports Dalyn in his ambition to keep Hawai‘i safe.