Southern Regional Tech EMT students sign apprenticeship agreements

THOMASVILLE — In a significant milestone for both education and work force development, Southern Regional Technical College announced that Advanced Emergency Medical Technician students at the college have signed apprenticeship agreements with Thomas County Emergency Services.

This is the first cohort of the Southern Regional Tech Street to Station Program, which aims to train fire medics or individuals who are cross-trained in both fire rescue and emergency medical services. The students included James Waldrep, of Pelham.

Apprenticeships represent a crucial intersection of hands-on experience and academic learning, providing an opportunity for individuals to kickstart their careers in a supportive and immersive environment. The apprenticeship agreements signed by SRTC’s AEMT students signify a commitment to fostering talent and preparing the next generation of emergency medical professionals.

“Our mission at Southern Regional Technical College is to equip students with the essential skills needed within the 11 counties we serve,” Special Assistant to the Southern Regional Tech president Amy Carter said. “We are very thankful that Thomas County reached out to us to fulfill a need for emergency medical services. This marks a significant achievement for the students involved. We take pride in their accomplishments and are excited about their promising careers in emergency medical services.”

The apprenticeship model is a comprehensive work-based learning program designed to bridge the gap between education and employment. Under the guidance of seasoned mentors and professionals at Thomas County Emergency Services, apprentices will gain invaluable experience while concurrently pursuing educational coursework. This dual approach ensures that apprentices not only receive practical, on-the-job training but also attain a solid theoretical foundation in their field of expertise.

One of the key advantages of apprenticeships is the ability for participants to earn a wage from day one. By blending paid work opportunities with classroom instruction, apprenticeships empower individuals to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios while earning a living. This approach not only supports the financial well-being of the apprentices but also accelerates their professional development.

SRTC remains dedicated to fostering partnerships with industry leaders to create opportunities for students that align with work force needs. The apprenticeship agreements are a testament to the college’s commitment to practical education and producing job-ready graduates who can make immediate contributions to their respective fields.

SRTC offers more than 150 degree, diploma, and certificate programs that are designed to get graduates quickly into a desired career, and 28 general education courses that transfer to the University System of Georgia institutions and 19 private colleges and universities in Georgia. SRTC has instructional sites located in 11 counties across southwest Georgia for the convenience of its students.

The college is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. SACSCOC is the regional body for the accreditation of degree-granting higher education institutions in the Southern states. For the most up-to-date information on registration, class dates, and program offerings, log on to www.southernregional.edu or call (888) 205-3449.

Summer semester begins May 13.

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