Fire Service
The Fire Service program is a one-year program available to seniors and is offered as a morning class. Students can earn up to 18 Yavapai College credits while working toward Hazardous Materials, Wildland, and Fire Fighter 1 and 2 Certifications. Classes are held at the Verde Valley Fire Training Center in Cottonwood.
Fire Science Instructors
Sal Unale
Mr. Salvador Unale brings more than 17 years of experience in the fire service and a strong commitment to serving his community. He began his career with Doney Park Fire Department before expanding his experience as a Detention Officer. He later spent five years with Ponderosa Fire Department, followed by time with Palominas Fire Department, before joining Copper Canyon Fire & Medical District, where he currently serves.
Throughout his career, Mr. Unale has gained valuable experience in emergency response, public safety, and community service. His dedication to the fire service and his passion for helping others make him a valuable resource for students pursuing careers in public safety.
Mr. Unale brings his real-world knowledge and experience into the classroom, helping students understand the skills, discipline, teamwork, and dedication required to succeed in the fire service. He is passionate about preparing the next generation of firefighters and public safety professionals for the challenges and rewards of the profession.
Outside of his career, Mr. Unale enjoys spending time with his wife and their two young boys. Family is an important part of his life, and he values the time they spend together creating memories. His dedication to his family, his students, and his community reflects the same commitment and service that have guided him throughout his career.
Jeremy Vargas
Jeremy Vargas was born and raised in Flagstaff. He moved to Cottonwood about 5 years ago when he married his wife and wanted to set roots. Mr. Vargas and his wife have a beautiful daughter and are currently expecting her baby sister.
Mr. Vargas has worked for Sedona Fire for the past 9 years and enjoys every day of it. Mr. Vargas has worked in the past for Flagstaff Fire Department and the Flagstaff Airport Fire. He has taught Fire science for many years at Coconino Community College in Flagstaff.
In his spare time Mr. Vargas enjoys getting outside, staying active, and spending time with family and friends. He enjoys making the most of Arizona’s outdoors and staying connected to the people and community around him.
Paul Vocca
Paul Vocca is joining VACTE for his first year as the Firefighter I & II Instructor. A 2004 graduate of Mingus Union High School and a lifelong resident of the Cottonwood area, Paul brings a strong connection to the Verde Valley and extensive experience in the fire service.
Paul has more than seven years of professional firefighting experience, including six years with the Cottonwood Fire Department and a year and a half with the Peoria Fire Department. He also holds an Associate of Applied Science in Paramedicine.
In addition to his fire service career, Paul has more than eight years of experience coaching youth sports throughout the Verde Valley and previously coached baseball at Mingus Union High School. Through both coaching and firefighting, he has developed a passion for helping young people build the work ethic, discipline, teamwork, communication, and leadership skills needed to succeed.
Paul and his wife are raising their four children in the Cottonwood area. He is excited to return to his community in a new role and share his professional experience with VACTE students as he helps prepare the next generation of firefighters.