Columbia State Community College recently recognized 11 emergency medical technicians and 21 paramedics upon completion of their programs during the Summer 2022 EMS pinning ceremony held in Cherry Theater.

“I continue to be amazed at the success of our student graduates and the level of professionalism they display,” said Greg Johnson, Columbia State EMS Academy program director. “Their commitment to excellence both academically and in their chosen career field make this an exciting group of students to watch enter our EMS workforce. EMS Academy faculty should be commended for their work in preparing these students for success. Our faculty continue to provide nurturing support and academic rigor to our students.”

These graduates are the fifth group of EMT graduates in the past year to achieve a 100% first-attempt credentialing exam pass rate for the national registry. The success of these students is phenomenal when compared to a national average first-attempt pass rate of 59-68% across the same time period. The paramedic class also had a 100% first-attempt pass rate on the paramedic national registry psychomotor exam.

An EMT provides basic life support at the site of illnesses and injuries, assisting with transport to the hospital. Paramedics are health care professionals trained in the advanced skills needed for rendering care to the critically ill or injured patient in the pre-hospital, industry or emergency room setting. Paramedics perform all of the procedures described for EMTs plus give oral or intravenous medications, read EKGs (electrocardiograms), do endotracheal intubations, and use additional complex equipment. 

EMT certificate completers also have the option to pursue the General Technology Associate of Applied Science degree by combining coursework from two certificates with general education courses to complete a personalized degree program.

“EMT and paramedic graduates consistently pass boards on the first attempt and are promptly employed in-field,” said Dr. Kae Fleming, Columbia State dean of the Health Sciences Division. “These results are evidence of the dedication and commitment of both the learners and the instructors!”

The program provides students with the necessary didactic and practical training to perform life-saving skills. Additionally, students learn to work alone, as well as in a squad-based (team) environment.

For more information about the EMS program, visit www.ColumbiaState.edu/EMS or contact Johnson at 931.540.2792.