Columbia State Community College recently recognized 8 emergency medical technicians and 28 paramedics upon completion of their programs during the Summer 2024 EMS Pinning ceremony held in the Cherry Theater.

“The Columbia State community is fortunate to have these eight basic and 28 advanced care providers amongst the first responders handling calls for service,” said Greg Johnson, Columbia State EMS Academy program director. “EMS Academy Cadre once again showed excellence in instruction in educating these skilled clinicians to success both in, and out of, the classroom.”

The Summer 2024 paramedic cohort earned a 100% first-attempt pass rate on the paramedic national registry cognitive exam. In addition, three out of the last four paramedic cohorts have achieved a 100% first-attempt pass rate for the national registry, further illustrating the long-time success of this program. The national first-time pass average for the paramedic national registry exam is 73%.

Likewise, the Summer 2024 EMT cohort earned a 100% first-attempt pass rate on the EMT national registry cognitive exam. The national first-time pass average for the EMT national registry exam is 77%.

“These student cohorts continue to show the quality of a Columbia State education,” Johnson said.

EMT and Paramedic 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, of which three graduates completed.

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.

Each 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.

"What a wonderful compliment near the end of the program when peer evaluators confidently said these new grads are ready to take care of family members,” said Dr. Kae Fleming, Columbia State dean of the Health Sciences Division. “A gritty blend of passion and perseverance has resulted in success and completion.”

Students who complete the one semester EMT-Basic certificate are promptly hired for entry-level EMT positions and have the option to continue at Columbia State for Advanced EMT and Paramedic credentials. Students who complete the 12-month Paramedic certificate are in high-demand for exciting positions with great earnings potential. 

For more information on attending Columbia State as an Emergency Medical Services student, please visit www.ColumbiaState.edu/EMS or email EMS@ColumbiaState.edu.