As the new academic year commences, Collin College is welcoming students into its Emergency Medical Services (EMS) program, which is designed to prepare them for careers in a sector that is rapidly expanding in North Texas.
This initiative is particularly relevant for Allen, as Frisco is about 9 miles west of the city, and the demand for emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and paramedics is surging due to the fast population growth in Collin County.
According to Greg Cox, the EMS program director, local fire and EMS officials have indicated a significant shortage of personnel, estimating the need for around 200 new workers each year in the region. Graduates from the program often secure jobs quickly with local agencies, where their expertise is highly sought after.
Interest in EMS careers has risen sharply since the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in a waitlist for prospective students. Cox highlighted the importance of practical training, where students engage in realistic emergency response scenarios using mock ambulances and advanced medical mannequins to prepare for real-world challenges.
Catelyn Barton, a recent high school graduate from Frisco, shared her aspiration for a hands-on career that benefits her community, viewing an EMS career as a viable alternative to a traditional four-year college education. Another student, Greyson Blanchard from Celina, pointed out the increasing need for first responders in his growing hometown, underscoring the significance of training individuals for these essential positions.
