What is EPI U?
EPI U. is a specialized summer work program tailored for students enrolled in fire protection college programs, aimed at equipping them with comprehensive knowledge about life safety systems and preparing them for a successful career in the industry. The program is designed to cater to students of all backgrounds, whether they possess prior experience in the field or not. EPI U. offers a range of training and resources that ensure students thrive in their summer positions.
EPI U. stands out from other student co-op and summer positions due to our unparalleled support, high-quality training, and strategic learning approach. As we recognize that many students may be new to the fire protection industry, we prioritize offering comprehensive support from the moment they are hired and throughout their training.
At EPI Fire Protection Inc., we firmly believe that fire protection students are the future of the industry. That’s why we’re committed to empowering the next generation of experts through the EPI U. program. Our summer work term offers students the opportunity to explore various roles, such as:
- Fire Alarm Technician
- System Deficiency Repairs
- Company Operations
- Warehouse
- and more!
Advantages for students:
- Acquire valuable skills necessary for the fire protection industry
- Learn about various fire alarm and fire sprinkler systems, how to conduct annual inspections, material stock listing, fire protection company operations, and more
- Corresponding knowledge enhances the understanding of theoretical concepts taught in class
- Gain practical experience in the fire and life safety industry
- Opportunity to explore different areas of fire protection based on individual interests
- Facilitates students in finding their preferred career path
- Receive fair compensation for their work
EPI U. is a summer work program that takes place between a student’s semesters.
Students have two ways to apply:
- Via email. Send their resume, cover letter, and unofficial transcript (preferred), to resumes@epi-fps.ca and specify their interest in the EPI U. summer program
- Via college co-op program. Students can apply through their college’s co-operative education program (if applicable)
At EPI, we believe that all fire protection students should have an equal opportunity to secure summer positions, which is why we do not require enrolment in a co-op program to apply. EPI U. welcomes all student applications.
Join our team this summer at EPI U. and empower your future!
Eyal Makarashvili
Program: Fire Protection Engineering Technology
College: Seneca College
Graduated: April 2023
“In the summer of 2022, I participated in the EPI U. program between my studies at Seneca College.
During this program, I received training to become a Junior Fire Alarm Technician. I was taught how to perform annual inspections on Fire Alarm systems, Emergency Lighting systems, and Fire Extinguishers in buildings throughout the Greater Toronto Area. Work did not seemed dull because there was always a great variety of tasks to perform each day, making it a truly fulfilling and exciting experience. For example, my work varied from testing smoke detectors in fire stations to checking emergency lighting units in different high schools. I worked closely with knowledgeable technicians, learned about various life safety systems, and gained valuable hands-on experience.
Halfway through the program, EPI provided me with an opportunity to express my interests and empower me to explore areas of the company that appealed to me. At this point, I shared I was interested in the office side of the fire protection company, and was given the opportunity to work in EPI’s operations team, which I thoroughly enjoyed. What started as a summer job turned into an enriching experience as I developed a strong understanding of the industry and life safety systems, learned how to estimate quotations for deficiency repairs, and made valuable connections with professionals. Upon completion of EPI U., I had become a proficient Junior Fire Alarm Technician and was well on my way to obtaining my Canadian Fire Alarm Association (CFAA) License.
Through this program, I developed communication, teamwork, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills, which enhanced my abilities as a Junior Fire Alarm Technician. Furthermore, the skills and knowledge I acquired helped me understand my fire protection classes better, especially fire alarm troubleshooting classes. During the EPI U., I even worked alongside students from other protection colleges, which made the experience even more enjoyable.
Prior to joining the program, I was uncertain about my career path, but the opportunity to explore different areas of the company and work with professionals helped me realize that being a sprinkler fitter was the career I desired most. EPI U. provided me with valuable skills I can take with me throughout my sprinkler career.
Thank you EPI U. for empowering my future!”
