Sussex County Community College (SCCC) has been recognized with the prestigious Business Innovation Award from the Sussex County Chamber of Commerce. The award celebrates the transformation and advancements made to its Public Safety Training Academy (PSTA) and was presented during the Chamber’s Annual Awards Luncheon. This celebration honors the organizations and individuals helping to make Sussex County a vibrant place to live, work, and connect.
The Business Innovation Award honors organizations that challenge conventional methods and introduce groundbreaking approaches to service and operations. SCCC’s revitalized Public Safety Training Academy is an example of innovative thinking, dedication to public service, and community commitment.
Over the past several years, the Public Safety Training Academy, under the leadership of Director John Dixon, has undergone a major transformation. The Academy has expanded its training capabilities to serve firefighters, law enforcement officers, and emergency medical services (EMS) personnel throughout Sussex County and beyond. New investments in state-of-the-art equipment, advanced simulation technology, and a revised curriculum have significantly enhanced the quality of training and preparedness.
“The reimagining of the Public Safety Training Academy represents a strategic and essential investment in the safety and well-being of our community,” said Dr. Cory Homer, Interim President of SCCC. “This recognition from the Chamber is a testament to the forward-thinking leadership and collaborative effort that went into revitalizing the Academy.”
John Dixon, a seasoned veteran with over 27 years in fire service, who served as a Battalion Chief and Tour Commander with the Teaneck Fire Department, has brought unmatched expertise and vision to the Academy. He holds prestigious credentials, including Fire Officer (FO) from the Center for Public Safety Excellence, Graduate Grade (GIFireE) from the Institution of Fire Engineers, and Training Officer (TO) from the International Society of Fire Service Instructors.
“Training saves lives,” Dixon said. “By raising the standard of emergency services education, we’re not just supporting our first responders—we’re building safer communities for everyone in Sussex County.”
The improvements at the PSTA are designed to meet the growing training needs of the region’s volunteer fire departments, municipal police agencies, and EMS units. This initiative ensures that Sussex County's emergency response teams have the skills and tools to respond effectively and efficiently.
The investment in the PSTA reflects SCCC’s commitment to advanced education, workforce development, and the community. In addition to public safety programming, SCCC offers a wide range of academic and career-focused programs that prepare students for immediate employment or transfer to four-year institutions.
Fall Enrollment is open for the 2025 semester. Interested students can explore programs and apply at sussex.edu/apply.
Pictured left to right: Ron Tappan, Sussex County Administrator; Jill Space, Freeholder Deputy Director; Chris Carney, Freeholder Director; John Dixon, Director of the Sussex County Public Safety Training Academy; Cory Homer, SCCC Interim President, Jason Fruge, SCCC Dean of Technical Occupations; and Stan Kula, SCCC Executive Director of the Foundation