Joey - College of Western Idaho
College of Western Idaho is utilizing our grant for their Public Service & Safety programs. Emergency Response and Fire Technology are part of the work experience education students receive. One such student is Joey Zumwalt.
Firefighting runs in the family for Joey Zumwalt. The Middleton, Idaho, native grew up watching his father serve in the Meridian Fire Department, which inspired him to follow in his footsteps. After high school, a ride-along with his dad’s crew confirmed that firefighting was the right path for him.
Zumwalt graduated from CWI’s Fire Service Technology program and now participates in a Work Experience internship with the Middleton Fire Department. With help from the Metallica Scholars Initiative, he earned his Firefighter I and EMT certifications and could focus on training without the added stress of financial strain.
“As a college student working part-time, the cost of education and training can be challenging. This scholarship came at just the right time.”
He credits the supportive environment at CWI for helping him build the skills and confidence needed to succeed.
“The program is designed to challenge you in a way that builds your skills. What stands out most is how supportive the instructors and staff are — they genuinely want you to succeed.”
His advice to future firefighters...
“Don’t give up. Stay focused, stay committed, and keep pushing forward — even when it gets tough."
