WESSON – Copiah-Lincoln Community College’s Paramedic Training Program has earned national accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs. This prestigious recognition highlights the program’s commitment to excellence in paramedic education, ensuring that students receive the highest quality training available.
The program, led by Director Brad Shirley, provides an essential step for current EMTs seeking to advance their careers in emergency medical services. Students in the program complete over 1,300 clock hours of intense classroom instruction, hands-on training, and clinical rotations, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to perform at the highest levels in the field.
“We are extremely proud to have earned this accreditation,” said Shirley. “It’s a reflection of the dedication and hard work put in by our faculty and students. Our program’s comprehensive training includes over 1,300 hours of rigorous instruction and ensures that Co-Lin graduates are prepared to meet the demands of their profession and serve our local communities.”
The program’s Lead Instructor, Jerry Fry, underscored the significance of the accreditation and the program’s comprehensive approach.
“Our students enter the program as EMTs, and through intense training, we build on their field experience with advanced skills and knowledge,” said Fry. “This accreditation reaffirms that we are delivering an education that exceeds national standards.”
Crystal Conn, the program’s Clinical Coordinator, highlighted the role of clinical experience in the program’s success.
“Our students spend hundreds of hours in diverse clinical settings, working directly with patients,” said Conn. “This hands-on experience is critical for developing the competence and confidence they need to excel as paramedics. CAAHEP accreditation confirms the strength of our clinical training.”
Graduates of the program are well-prepared to pursue licensure and employment in emergency medical services, contributing to the health and safety of communities throughout the region.
What is a Paramedic?
As students complete their training at Co-Lin, they step into the critical role of paramedics within the healthcare system. A paramedic is an allied health professional specializing in advanced emergency medical care for patients in critical and emergent situations. Paramedics possess the knowledge and skills to provide life-saving interventions, manage complex emergencies such as cardiac, respiratory, and trauma events, and transport patients safely to medical facilities. Under medical oversight, paramedics are licensed to administer medications, perform and interpret electrocardiograms (EKGs), conduct endotracheal intubations, and operate advanced medical equipment typically found on ambulances. They serve as the vital link between the scene of an emergency and the healthcare system, ensuring that patients receive essential care during transportation.
For more information about the Paramedic Training Program, visit www.colin.edu or call 601-643-8397.
