NAPA – Thanks to a $400,000 grant from the California Community College’s Chancellor’s office and cooperation with the American Canyon Fire Protection District, Napa Valley College is now offering paramedic training.

Applications are being accepted for the second class, starting fall 2009. Fall application deadline has been extended to April 22.

The American Canyon Fire Protection District is hosting the program at the District’s training facility on James Road. The program runs approximately 18 months and prepares students for a career as a paramedic.

"The development of the Paramedic Program by Napa Valley College is in direct response to the needs of the community. This is what community colleges, and particularly Napa Valley College, are all about," said Sue Nelson, vice president of Instruction.

“There is a national shortage of paramedics and we are thrilled to be able to provide another career option for our local students,” said Dr. Amy LaPan, dean of Health Occupations and co-director of the new program. “This will meet a real need in our community,” she added.

Ted Peterson, who currently serves as EMT instructor, will also be an instructor and co-director of the new program. “Individuals currently working as EMTs will now have an opportunity to obtain additional training locally to take them to the next level of their careers,” he said. “Paramedics are usually found working for fire departments or private ambulance companies. The demand for quality trained paramedics is high in the Bay Area, California and the rest of the country.”

The number of spaces for students is limited. Those interested are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. There are prerequisites to enter this program.

Those interested need to submit a complete application, provide a high school transcript or proof of successful completion of the GED or California High School Proficiency Exam and college or private post-secondary transcripts showing completion of EMT 95 (emergency medical technician basic) with a grade of B or better and Health Occupations 100 (anatomy and physiology) with a grade of C or better.

Students applying also need to have a current Basic Life Support healthcare provider CPR certification, current and valid EMT-1 accreditation/certification, verification from employer(s) of a minimum of 2000 hours pre-hospital work experience within the last three years, and two recommendation letters related to preparedness for paramedic study and promise as a professional in the field.

An EMT assessment examination will then be taken and the top candidates will move forward for an oral/skills interview and assessment.

For more information, call 707-253-3120 or see www.napavalley.edu and click on “paramedic."