Emergency medical services students from Columbia State Community College were recently awarded in two categories after competing at the Battle of the Smokies.

Over 10 teams representing community colleges and county EMS from Tennessee and Kentucky competed at the March 4 event in Sevierville, Tennessee.

In the Student Advanced Life Support division, Columbia State won first place. Second place went to Walters State Community College. Third place went to Northeast Community College.

In the Student Basic Life Support division, Columbia State won second place. Roane State Community College placed first. Walters State Community College placed third. 

“I am so proud of our Columbia State students competing in this competition, especially our Paramedic students who brought home first place,” said Gregory S. Johnson, Columbia State EMS program director and assistant professor. “These students were challenged to step out of their comfort zone and handle a mass casualty situation, that at times seemed unwinnable. However, like normal, Columbia State students rose to the occasion and knocked this scenario out of the park.”

The EMS competition featured a scenario where patients had to be treated after accidents involving heavy equipment. Teams were scored in four divisions on their proficiency in medical care, communication and overall teamwork, documenting after the incident and a written skills test.

The Battle of the Smokies is put on by the Tennessee Association of EMS Providers and the Tennessee Mine Rescue Association.