Indian River State College's Fire Academy and Training Center was named Florida Fire Training Center of the Year by Florida Chief Financial Officer and State Fire Marshall Alex Sink. Firefighters are the first responder to most emergency incidents, protecting life and property from the destruction of fires or meeting the medical needs of those involved in traffic accidents and other emergencies. At IRSC, Fire Science students choose from multiple programs to pursue their firefighting careers. Students receive a well-rounded associate's degree education through the Fire Science Academy Track that couples academics with a strong foundation in fire operations, including field training or they can choose to complete the Basic Fire Academy and receive certification as a fire combat firefighter. IRSC also offers specialized and advanced training for career firefighters.