SWC News Center

Southwestern College Honors the Late Stephen K. Bowlin as Employee of the Quarter

By: Ko Inouye - March 27, 2025

Southwestern College (SWC) is proud to recognize Stephen K. Bowlin, Fire Facilities and Equipment Specialist (FES), as the Employee of the Quarter for April–June 2025. Nominated by Lorraine Hutchinson, Director of Fire Technology, Bowlin’s unwavering dedication, problem-solving abilities, and commitment to student success have left an indelible mark on the Fire Technology Program and the Public Safety Training Center. His contributions continue to shape the future of public safety education at SWC.

For over 12 years, Bowlin served the SWC community, first as a Fire Science Instructor for a decade before transitioning to his role as Fire Science Program FES in August 2021. His expertise and leadership were instrumental in the completion and operation of the state-of-the-art Public Safety Training Center, which serves the Police Academy, Emergency Medical Technician & Paramedic programs, and the Fire Technology Program.

“When the Fire Technology Program was accredited in 2021 to operate an Office of the State Fire Marshal Firefighter 1 Academy, we faced several challenges with the new facility,” Hutchinson shared. “Steve immediately stepped up as a liaison between the bond team, construction team, and facilities maintenance division, ensuring that issues were efficiently resolved. Without his oversight, many concerns would have remained unaddressed.”

Bowlin was known for his sharp problem-solving skills and his ability to identify, analyze, and resolve critical issues while maintaining fiscal responsibility. Some of his notable contributions include:

• Addressing malfunctions in the reclaimed water tank system, coordinating with contractors to find a cost-effective solution.
• Rectifying construction deficiencies in the roof props, ensuring they met safety and operational standards.
• Enhancing facility security after multiple break-ins by reinforcing roll-up doors with metal panels in collaboration with architects and contractors.

“Steve’s ability to think ahead, troubleshoot, and find fiscally responsible solutions ensured the success and safety of the facility,” Hutchinson explained. “His expertise in professional excellence and sustainability of stewardship will have a lasting impact.”

Beyond his technical expertise, Bowlin was deeply committed to student success. He went above and beyond to support faculty and students by:

• Assisting with turnout gear sizing, issuing equipment, and building training props.
  Providing access to classrooms and gym facilities.
• Offering remedial training on his own time to academy recruits needing extra support.
• Supporting students preparing for fire department interviews by serving on mock interview panels.

“Steve truly cared about the success of our students. He not only provided them with the tools and training they needed but also mentored them beyond graduation,” Hutchinson remarked. “His commitment to equity, inclusion, scholarship, and community engagement was evident in everything he did.”

Bowlin’s contributions to SWC and the Fire Technology Program will outlive his time with us, continuing to influence students, faculty, and public safety professionals for years to come.

“Steve’s legacy is one of dedication, leadership, and selflessness,” Hutchinson stated. “His impact on our program, students, and faculty is immeasurable. We are incredibly proud to honor him as Employee of the Quarter.”

SWC extends our deepest gratitude to Stephen K. Bowlin for his years of service and commitment to excellence. His contributions will not be forgotten, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of public safety professionals.