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Hans Silberschlag, Ed.D.

Residential Faculty - Fire Science ~ Fire Service Management

Program Director :

Applied Sciences and Technology

Applied Sciences and Technology

Office: Downtown Center - Room: 437

480-461-6300

480-461-6311 (alt)

602-228-4117 (mobile)

Office Hours

MondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFriday
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM10:00 AM - 1:00 PM9:00 AM - 10:00 AM10:00 AM - 1:00 PM12:00 PM - 3:00 PM
12:00 PM - 4:00 PM 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM  
    By appointment

Office hours that are listed are in-person, plus are available by appointment and/or prior to scheduled class times.

Profile

Chief Hans Silberschlag (Ret.) has been affiliated with Mesa Community College since 1979 when he began taking Fire Science courses. Hired by Tempe Fire Medical Rescue Department in 1986, he promoted through the ranks of Firefighter, Paramedic, Engineer, Captain, Battalion Chief, Deputy Chief, and Assistant Fire Chief. He retired after 33 years of service with the City of Tempe and transitioned to Mesa Community College fulltime. While working in the fire service he began teaching as an Adjunct Faculty Member for Mesa Community College in 1988 as an EMT instructor, and transitioned to teaching Fire Science courses after a few years.  In 1993, Hans was one of the original instructors for the MCC Fire Academy (FSC 102 - Fire Operations) and became the Fire Academy Coordinator in 1997. Hans split a Residential Faculty Position with another half-time faculty member until 2018 when he transitioned to a fulltime Residential Faculty member and Program Director for the MCC Fire Science Program.  Hans has earned an AAS in Fire Science, and B.S. in Public Safety Management, a M.Ed. in Educational Leadership - Community College/Higher Education, and an Ed.D in Higher Education Leadership.  He has also earned the Executive Fire Officer designation and credentialing from the National Fire Academy, along with a Certified Public Manager designation and credentialing from Arizona State University.

Classes Taught

Fall 2024

FSC102 Fire Department Operations 11 Credits

Introductory fire science course primarily designed for the fire department recruit. Includes firefighting skills, equipment, and administrative policies, fire department operations, personnel policies, and International Fire Service Accreditation Congress Practical Skills Testing. Satisfies minimum standards for certification testing set forth by the current Arizona State Training and Certifying Authority.

Prerequisites: A grade of C or better in FSC105, FSC130, and permission of Instructor. Corequisites: (FSC134 or FSC234) and FSC174.

Course Notes: Special registration is required through the EMT/Fire Science Department; please visit www.mesacc.edu/departments/fire-science-emt to complete the registration form, view prerequisite courses, or contact the department.
Section Location Delivery Dates Days Times Availability
13504
MC OFFSITE

Mesa Fire Training Center
Hybrid
Lecture/Lab
08/19/2024 – 12/13/2024
MoTuWeTh
5:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Class Ended

Notes: Hybrid classes include face-to-face format on campus at the time listed in the class schedule. The other part will be held online either without a set time to attend or a Live Online session. Students enrolling in a hybrid class acknowledge they already possess the skills described in the Minimum Computer and Technology Requirements at https://www.mesacc.edu/online/get-started for additional information.

Class 13504 is located at the Mesa Public Safety Training Facility: 3260 North 40th Street, Mesa, AZ 85215. Course fees are $200 payable at time of registration. Student will be required to purchase other learning supplies such as books and uniform items. Students registered for FSC102 (11 credits) must concurrently enroll in a designated section of FSC134 (3 credits). This course utilizes a blended learning component for enhanced learning. Students will be expected to complete on-line assignments and exams. Special registration is required through the Fire Science Department; please visit http://www.mesacc.edu/departments/fire-science-emt to download an application, view prerequisite courses, or contact the department.
FSC105 Hazardous Materials Awareness and Operations 3 Credits

Basic methods of recognition and identification based upon the chemical and physical properties of hazardous materials; basic safety procedures when utilizing specific types of protective clothing and equipment; basic tactical information relating to scene management. Satisfies minimum standards for certification testing set forth by the current ProBoard and/or Arizona State Training and Certifying Authority.

Prerequisites: None.
Section Location Delivery Dates Days Times Availability
13505
Downtown Center

DTC/Centennial Way Room 422
In Person
Lecture/Lab
08/19/2024 – 12/13/2024
MoWe
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Class Ended
FSC108 Fundamentals of Fire Prevention 3 Credits

Fundamentals of fire prevention. Includes techniques, procedures, regulations, and enforcement. Also includes discussion of hazards in ordinary and special occupancies. Field trips and lectures from industry also included. Prerequisites: None.
Section Location Delivery Dates Days Times Availability
13506

Online Course
Online (On Your Time)
Lecture
08/19/2024 – 12/13/2024

Class Ended

Notes: This is an Online class that does not meet at specific class times. Students are required to have access to a computer or mobile device, and Internet access, unless otherwise specified. Before enrolling in their first online class at MCC, students need to view the online orientation and complete the readiness survey on https://www.mesacc.edu/online/get-started for additional information.

Class 13506 Students may contact instructor at: hans.silberschlag@mesacc.edu
FSC134 Fitness and Conditioning for Firefighters 3 Credits

Overview of all aspects of fitness for current and prospective firefighters. Includes physical and mental aspects of performance for optimal achievement on fire department agility tests and fire fighting tasks; individual conditioning strategies, nutritional guidelines, protective clothing concepts, and basic exercise principles. Pre-employment, evaluation, and lifelong fitness and conditioning.

Prerequisites: None.

Course Notes: Special registration is required through the EMT/Fire Science Department; please visit www.mesacc.edu/departments/fire-science-emt to complete the registration form, view prerequisite courses, or contact the department.
Section Location Delivery Dates Days Times Availability
13507
MC OFFSITE

Mesa Fire Training Center
Hybrid
Lecture/Lab
08/19/2024 – 12/13/2024
MoTuWeTh
4:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Class Ended

Notes: Hybrid classes include face-to-face format on campus at the time listed in the class schedule. The other part will be held online either without a set time to attend or a Live Online session. Students enrolling in a hybrid class acknowledge they already possess the skills described in the Minimum Computer and Technology Requirements at https://www.mesacc.edu/online/get-started for additional information.

Class 13507 is located at the Mesa Public Safety Training Facility: 3260 North 40th Street, Mesa, AZ 85215. Course fees are $30 payable at time of registration. Student will be required to purchase other learning supplies such as uniform items. Students registered for FSC102 (11 credits) must concurrently enroll in a designated section of FSC134 (3 credits). This course utilizes a blended learning component for enhanced learning. Students will be expected to complete on-line assignments and exams. Special registration is required through the Fire Science Department; please visit http://www.mesacc.edu/departments/fire-science-emt to download an application, view prerequisite courses, or contact the department. Students may contact instructor at: elizabeth.sambach@mesacc.edu
FSC202 Supervisory Training For Firefighters 3 Credits

Administrative methods applied to the fire service, departmental organization, and personnel management. Includes fire alarm signaling systems, fire service planning, and relationships with other city departments. Prerequisites: None.
Section Location Delivery Dates Days Times Availability
16220

Online Course
Online (On Your Time)
Lecture
08/17/2024 – 10/12/2024

Class Ended

Notes: This is an Online class that does not meet at specific class times. Students are required to have access to a computer or mobile device, and Internet access, unless otherwise specified. Before enrolling in their first online class at MCC, students need to view the online orientation and complete the readiness survey on https://www.mesacc.edu/online/get-started for additional information.

Students may contact instructor at: hans.silberschlag@mesacc.edu

Fall Flex Start 2024

FSC101 Introduction to Fire Service Selection and Entry 4 Credits

Overview of the application and selection processes used by various fire departments and fire service organizations. Focus on the skills and abilities required for entry-level positions in the fire department, including oral and written communication skills, mathematical and mechanical skills, problem-solving skills, and physical agility and stamina. Elements of fire service culture and their effects on personal growth and interpersonal relationships. Major components of written application processes, requirements, preparation of resumes and their effect on employment prospects. Preparation for the interview to include communications skills, mental preparation techniques, behaviors, and the importance of the interview in the pre-employment process.

Prerequisites: None.
Section Location Delivery Dates Days Times Availability
13518

Online Course
Online (On Your Time)
Lecture/Lab
08/26/2024 – 11/12/2024

Class Ended

Notes: This is an Online class that does not meet at specific class times. Students are required to have access to a computer or mobile device, and Internet access, unless otherwise specified. Before enrolling in their first online class at MCC, students need to view the online orientation and complete the readiness survey on https://www.mesacc.edu/online/get-started for additional information.

Class 13518 Students may contact instructor at: hans.silberschlag@mesacc.edu
FSC174 Functions of Command 2 Credits

Basic functions of command in the fire service. Includes brief history and future trends of incident command. Analysis of recent local, national, and international tactical and strategic concerns. Utilizes a Command Training Center to provide real-time, computer- and prop-enhanced simulations.

Prerequisites: Permission of Instructor. Corequisites: FSC102.

Course Notes: Special registration is required through the EMT/Fire Science Department; please visit www.mesacc.edu/departments/fire-science-emt to complete the registration form, view prerequisite courses, or contact the department.
Section Location Delivery Dates Days Times Availability
15140
Downtown Center

DTC/Centennial Way Room 451
Hybrid
Lecture/Lab
08/30/2024 – 12/13/2024
Fr
10:30 AM – 12:00 PM

Class Ended

Notes: Hybrid classes include face-to-face format on campus at the time listed in the class schedule. The other part will be held online either without a set time to attend or a Live Online session. Students enrolling in a hybrid class acknowledge they already possess the skills described in the Minimum Computer and Technology Requirements at https://www.mesacc.edu/online/get-started for additional information.

There will be five (5) In-Person simulations occurring on November 8, November 15, November 22, December 6 and December 13.

Class 15140 Students may contact instructor at: hans.silberschlag@mesacc.edu
FSC204 Firefighting Tactics and Strategy 3 Credits

Methods of coordinating personnel, equipment, and apparatus on the fireground. Practical methods of controlling and extinguishing structural and other types of fires. Includes simulation exercises.

Prerequisites: A grade of C or better in FSC113 or permission of Instructor or current employment as a firefighter and/or Firefighter I and II Certification and/or related experience as determined by the Program Director.
Section Location Delivery Dates Days Times Availability
16232
Downtown Center

Downtown Center/Centennial Way
Hybrid
Lecture
10/04/2024 – 12/13/2024

Class Ended

Notes: Hybrid classes include face-to-face format on campus at the time listed in the class schedule. The other part will be held online either without a set time to attend or a Live Online session. Students enrolling in a hybrid class acknowledge they already possess the skills described in the Minimum Computer and Technology Requirements at https://www.mesacc.edu/online/get-started for additional information.

Class 16232 Hybrid course, There will be five (5) In-person simulation days required at the Virtual Incident Command Center on November 8, November 15, November 22, December 6, and December 13.

Students may contact instructor at: hans.silberschlag@mesacc.edu

Spring 2025

FSC105 Hazardous Materials Awareness and Operations 3 Credits

Basic methods of recognition and identification based upon the chemical and physical properties of hazardous materials; basic safety procedures when utilizing specific types of protective clothing and equipment; basic tactical information relating to scene management. Satisfies minimum standards for certification testing set forth by the current ProBoard and/or Arizona State Training and Certifying Authority.

Prerequisites: None.
Section Location Delivery Dates Days Times Availability
27820
Downtown Center

DTC/Centennial Way Room 422
Hybrid
Lecture/Lab
01/13/2025 – 05/09/2025
MoWe
10:30 AM – 12:00 PM

Closed

Notes: Live Online classes have sessions that meet online on specific days and times. Attendance in these sessions will be at the discretion of the instructor, and additional work will be required on the student’s own time. Access to a computer or mobile device with Internet connection is required. Before enrolling in their first online class at MCC, students need to view the online orientation and complete the readiness survey on https://www.mesacc.edu/online/get-started for additional information.

Students may contact instructor at hans.silberschlag@mesacc.edu
FSC113 Introduction to Fire Suppression 3 Credits

Introduction to the characteristics and behavior of fire, fire hazard properties of ordinary materials, extinguishing agents, firefighter safety, fire suppression organization and equipment, and basic fire fighting tactics.

Prerequisites: None.
Section Location Delivery Dates Days Times Availability
27556
Downtown Center

DTC/Centennial Way Room 422
Hybrid
Lecture
01/14/2025 – 05/09/2025
Tu
1:00 PM – 3:00 PM

Open

12 of 20
Seats Available

Notes: Hybrid classes include face-to-face format on campus at the time listed in the class schedule. The other part will be held online either without a set time to attend or a Live Online session. Students enrolling in a hybrid class acknowledge they already possess the skills described in the Minimum Computer and Technology Requirements at https://www.mesacc.edu/online/get-started for additional information.

Students may contact instructor at hans.silberschlag@mesacc.edu

Lab Notes: Students registering for class 27556 must also register for .
28105
Downtown Center

DTC/Centennial Way Room 422
Hybrid
Lab
01/16/2025 – 05/09/2025
Th
1:00 PM – 3:00 PM

Open

12 of 20
Seats Available

Notes: Hybrid classes include face-to-face format on campus at the time listed in the class schedule. The other part will be held online either without a set time to attend or a Live Online session. Students enrolling in a hybrid class acknowledge they already possess the skills described in the Minimum Computer and Technology Requirements at https://www.mesacc.edu/online/get-started for additional information.

Students may contact instructor at hans.silberschlag@mesacc.edu

Lecture Notes: Students registering for class 28105 must also register for .

Spring Flex Start 2025

FSC101 Introduction to Fire Service Selection and Entry 4 Credits

Overview of the application and selection processes used by various fire departments and fire service organizations. Focus on the skills and abilities required for entry-level positions in the fire department, including oral and written communication skills, mathematical and mechanical skills, problem-solving skills, and physical agility and stamina. Elements of fire service culture and their effects on personal growth and interpersonal relationships. Major components of written application processes, requirements, preparation of resumes and their effect on employment prospects. Preparation for the interview to include communications skills, mental preparation techniques, behaviors, and the importance of the interview in the pre-employment process.

Prerequisites: None.
Section Location Delivery Dates Days Times Availability
26366
Downtown Center

DTC/Centennial Way Room 422
Hybrid
Lecture/Lab
01/28/2025 – 05/09/2025
Tu
5:00 PM – 7:40 PM

Open

6 of 20
Seats Available

Notes: Hybrid classes include face-to-face format on campus at the time listed in the class schedule. The other part will be held online either without a set time to attend or a Live Online session. Students enrolling in a hybrid class acknowledge they already possess the skills described in the Minimum Computer and Technology Requirements at https://www.mesacc.edu/online/get-started for additional information.

Class 26366 Students may contact instructor at: hans.silberschlag@mesacc.edu
FSC208 Firefighter Safety and Building Construction 3 Credits

Actions necessary to provide for the safety of firefighters operating on the fireground. Effects that fire and heat may have on various types of building construction resulting in the loss of structural integrity. Includes signs and symptoms of structural damage.

Prerequisites: A grade of C or better in FSC113 or permission of Instructor or current employment as a firefighter and/or Firefighter I and II Certification and/or related experience as determined by the Program Director.
Section Location Delivery Dates Days Times Availability
27557

Online Course
Online (On Your Time)
Lecture
03/17/2025 – 05/09/2025

Open

19 of 25
Seats Available

Notes: This is an Online class that does not meet at specific class times. Students are required to have access to a computer or mobile device, and Internet access, unless otherwise specified. Before enrolling in their first online class at MCC, students need to view the online orientation and complete the readiness survey on https://www.mesacc.edu/online/get-started for additional information.

Students may contact instructor at hans.silberschlag@mesacc.edu
FSC215 Customer Service in the Public Sector 3 Credits

Examines the personal and practical skills needed to enhance customer service in the public sector with an emphasis on application, basic management requirements, and training. Prerequisites: None.
Section Location Delivery Dates Days Times Availability
27753

Online Course
Online (On Your Time)
Lecture
03/17/2025 – 05/09/2025

Open

7 of 25
Seats Available

Notes: This is an Online class that does not meet at specific class times. Students are required to have access to a computer or mobile device, and Internet access, unless otherwise specified. Before enrolling in their first online class at MCC, students need to view the online orientation and complete the readiness survey on https://www.mesacc.edu/online/get-started for additional information.

Students may contact instructor at hans.silberschlag@mesacc.edu

Degrees & Awards

A.A.S. Degree - Fire Science

B.S. Degree - Public Safety Management

M.Ed. - Educational Leadership - Community College/Higher Education

Ed.D. - Higher Education Leadership

Executive Fire Officer designation and credentialing from the National Fire Academy

Certified Public Manager designation and credentialing from Arizona State University

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