A group in dark blue EMS polos huddles around a body inside the Grays Peak building.
One wears light blue latex gloves while performing chest compressions. Others prepare equipment alongside a bright yellow stretcher.
Not to alarm: This is a common sight on the Larimer Campus, where students in the EMS program participate in drills to practice life-saving skills.
With industry-grade tools and partnership opportunities, they gain real-world experience.
In the classroom, they have access to a driving simulator: three large screens that portray various ambulance scenarios.
Part of their classroom is a scale-model ambulance, complete with a stretcher and the very medical tools found on the front lines.
Because of the widely unpredictable situations EMTs encounter, a one-size-fits-all training approach doesn’t exist. Hence, the program utilizes many training scenarios.
The program works with neighboring agencies so students can learn how different departments operate. For instance, students get the opportunity to ride alongside first-responders on real emergency calls.
The program has agreements with Greeley Fire, the UCHealth Greeley Hospital, Poudre Fire Authority, and many other organizations to provide field experience.
Andrea Richards, EMS program director for the Larimer Campus, said COVID-19 created a large demand for first responders, specifically EMTs. She said the risks associated with the job, especially during COVID-19, forced many out of the profession.
FRCC is working to close that gap, she said. After completing the program, students are prepared for careers, having gained real-world experience and certifications such as EMT and CPR.
