Anna Maria College is educating the future leaders of public service. Whether through the development of new training programs or the creation of new learning spaces, Anna Maria College is always thinking of new opportunities and resources for our students.
In the wake of the pandemic, many industries are experiencing worker shortages and sadly the EMS field is no exception. The lack of trained EMS professionals is leading to gaps in services, especially in smaller communities. To address the evolving landscape of first responder professions, Anna Maria College recently created a dual track program for Paramedics and Fire Science that gives students the competitive edge and comprehensive training that they need to succeed as emergency departments increasingly seek professionals with these combined skills.
While the situation is urgent, there is a silver lining for EMS students. Fire departments and ambulance companies need help filling open positions and are actively looking to hire students with competitive training who can hit the ground running. The current state of the industry presents many career opportunities and Anna Maria’s dual track program perfectly positions its students to succeed as both firefighters and paramedics. Our students’ adaptability makes them more competitive in the current job market.
The Dual Track program gives students the best of both worlds. It educates future leaders of the fire service, while also producing highly trained entry level paramedic providers ready to sit for the National Registry Paramedic Certification Exam.
“Anna Maria College stands out as a leader in educating the future public servants who will care for our communities. This dual Fire Science/Paramedic track is a natural progression for the public service vision here at the college,” said Wardwell “Burt” Cox, Director of Anna Maria’s Paramedic and Emergency Medical Services Program
In addition to the new academic track, Anna Maria College is also proud to introduce its new Nursing and Paramedic space in Miriam Hall. Within the 7,000 square foot renovated healthcare space is a training area for students pursuing Paramedic Science degrees and EMT certifications. There, students will be taught the competencies, practices and the skills necessary to become an Emergency Medical Technician and/or Paramedic.
The new space is garnering interest from students in the healthcare and first responder fields who are excited to learn in a renovated facility with faculty who have real-world experience. These new labs and classrooms will provide students with the hands-on learning they need to success in the fast-paced world of emergency service.
Being a Paramedic is a hard job that requires dedication and sacrifice, but the ability to help others is a reward all its own. “At the end of the day, we share experiences that most people don’t. For EMS providers, this is enhanced because the care delivered can be under some pretty austere conditions, so there is a bond there. If you work hard, trust the process, develop friendships, and have fun, you will be rewarded with what I consider to be the best career in the world,” Cox said.
