Columbia State Community College recognized eight respiratory care graduates during its annual pinning ceremony.

Students who are trained to work as respiratory therapists provide assessment, diagnostic evaluation, treatment and care for patients with breathing disorders. Upon completion of the program, graduates have become experts in artificial ventilation, resuscitation and airway management.     

“Respiratory therapists, like many other health professionals, are in high demand,” said Pamela Lindemann, Columbia State respiratory care program director. “Our graduates are stepping confidently into their careers, filling critical roles in healthcare and making a meaningful difference in patients' lives. If you are interested in a rewarding career in healthcare, I urge you to consider respiratory care. This field offers incredible opportunities to grow professionally while playing a vital role in improving patient outcomes. Each graduate has accepted a position and will begin their career expeditiously.”

Columbia State’s respiratory care program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care. All students participate in supervised, hands-on care in a variety of area healthcare settings and receive adult, pediatric and neonatal training. 

“New respiratory therapists enter a field which is expanding from almost exclusively critical care to include disease prevention and health promotion and support for patients striving to live full lives with respiratory illnesses,” said Dr. Kae Fleming, dean of the Health Sciences Division and professor of radiologic technology. “These graduates leave Columbia State with rewarding career choices ranging from neonatal to pediatric to adult across in-patient, home care or community health settings.”

For more information about applying to the respiratory care program, visit www.ColumbiaState.edu/Respiratory-Care.