OC Bomberos Launch Scholarship and Mentorship for Future Firefighters

Supporting Future Firefighters: The Story of OC Bomberos

In the heart of Buena Park, California, two dedicated firefighters, Andrew Robles and Gabriel Flores, found common ground at the Orange County Fire Authority station. Over coffee breaks, they passionately discussed a pressing issue—how to support aspiring firefighters, EMTs, and paramedics who face financial obstacles in their pursuit of careers in the fire service. Their shared mission gave birth to the OC Bomberos, a program designed to bridge financial gaps and offer hope to those eager to serve their communities.

As a part-time instructor at Mt. San Antonio College and Rio Hondo College, Flores witnessed firsthand the struggles that many students faced. Balancing demanding fire academy coursework with jobs and caregiving responsibilities often left them overwhelmed and exhausted. Flores, who had navigated similar challenges himself, was inspired to implement a structured support system that would allow potential firefighters to focus on their education without the burden of financial worries.

Launched in 2020, OC Bomberos swiftly made an impact, granting over 40 scholarships aimed at alleviating the financial strain of attending college fire academy courses and paramedic or EMT training. While scholarship amounts vary yearly, in 2025, recipients received $1,000 each, which could be used flexibly for essential expenses such as tuition, rent, and books. Robles reflects on the staggering cost of fire service education—a basic fire academy course can reach $6,000, paramedic programs can soar to $13,000, and EMT training is around $2,500. Such financial burdens can deter individuals with a genuine desire to pursue firefighting.

For Robles, the importance of this initiative goes beyond statistics; it is deeply personal. As a child, he was inspired by firefighters during his uncle’s graduation ceremony. Yet, he vividly remembers the burden on his mother as she struggled to afford his participation in a youth fire explorer program. Her sacrifices instilled in him a profound appreciation for the roadblocks that many aspiring firefighters face, further motivating his commitment to OC Bomberos.

The first cornhole tournament in 2022 was a significant milestone for the organization, attracting several hundred participants and laying the groundwork for future fundraisers. As OC Bomberos has grown into a nonprofit over the years, it has rallied community support and garnered impressive results—more than $15,000 raised in the 2025 tournament alone. The scholarships have enabled recipients to take crucial steps towards fulfilling their dreams, with many securing positions at renowned fire departments, including the Los Angeles County Fire Department and Cal Fire.

One remarkable success story is that of Kekoa Lau. In 2025, Lau became the first OC Bomberos scholarship recipient to be hired by the Orange County Fire Authority. His journey from juggling multiple jobs in Hawaii to accepting a firefighting role reflects the program’s commitment to mentorship and training. With critical support from OC Bomberos during the hiring process, Lau navigated interviews with confidence, showcasing the initiative’s role in not only providing financial aid but also offering invaluable career guidance.

For aspiring firefighters, OC Bomberos is more than just a scholarship provider; it’s a network of support. From matching young adults with mentors to offering mock interviews and test preparation, the program maps out a clear path into the fire service. The organization provides insights about opportunities in the fire cadet program, helps schedule ride-alongs, and facilitates connections with local fire departments, empowering new candidates with the tools they need to succeed.

Now as an official firefighter, Lau feels the weight of responsibility that comes with the badge. He reflects on the sense of trust the community places in firefighters and how his role is to bring peace amid chaos. Inspired by his mentors and the work of past firefighters, Lau is determined to make a meaningful impact. After completing his first year, he hopes to give back to OC Bomberos, helping others find their passion just as he did, echoing the organization’s core mission to support the next generation of firefighters.

In summary, the OC Bomberos initiative highlights the vital connection between community support and personal success. Founded by firefighters who understand the struggles of aspiring candidates, this program embodies the spirit of giving back. By eliminating financial barriers and providing mentorship, OC Bomberos is not only shaping future firefighters but also uplifting the communities they serve.