Over the last five years, Parkland College has been steadily growing its Emergency Services Training programs. Today its firefighting and paramedic programs are popular choices among new students, and have become legacies of the college's commitment to delivering responsive training to the demands of the region.
Parkland College has offered the only full-time professional firefighter training program in Saskatchewan since 2008. It acts as a broker to provide the NFPA 1001 program in cooperation with Lakeland College in Vermilion, AB. The 14-week program provides a comprehensive blend of theory and practical skills required for entry-level firefighter positions. Eight platoons have completed the program at Parkland College. The next program offering is scheduled to begin in March.
Just last year, the college completed an extensive series of upgrades to its Emergency Services Training Site near Melville. The improvements include new chain-link fences and gates, a vehicle storage building, and additional fire props for hands-on training. Plans for the spring include more industrial props and a new road structure.
The site is also used by students enrolled in the SIAST Primary Care Paramedic program at Parkland College's Melville Campus. The 18-week certificate program trains students in recognizing and managing medical and trauma injuries, physical assessment, pharmacology, and professionalism and leadership in Emergency Medical Services. Graduates work in ambulance operations, fire services (in conjunction with fire training), industrial sites, mining sites, military departments, or special care facilities. The next paramedic program begins in November 2013.
The college's programs grow based on demand. The development of the training site and the emergency services programs exemplify the college's commitment to providing the best training opportunities for its students.
