Catawba Valley Community College Department of Emergency Medical Science

In 1979, the EMS landscape looked very different, but history was made right here at Catawba Valley Community College. We are incredibly proud to share that our program was the very first accredited EMS program in North Carolina.

While the technology, protocols, and equipment have changed drastically over the last four decades, our core mission has remained unshakable: providing the highest quality education in prehospital medicine.

What’s Changed?

Then: Analog communication, basic life support foundations, and the very beginning of formal accreditation.

Now: High-fidelity simulation labs, advanced clinical diagnostics, and a statewide reputation for producing elite Paramedics.

What Stays the Same?

Our commitment to our students and the communities they serve.

Whether you graduated in the '80s or are walking across the stage this year, you are part of a legacy of excellence that started right here in Hickory.

We’ve come a long way since '79, and we’re just getting started! Are you a CVCC EMS alum? Drop your graduation year in the comments!

Are you ready to make a difference when every second counts? 🚑

Join us for the Catawba Valley Community College Open House! Whether you’re a high school student exploring your options or someone looking for a meaningful career change, this is your chance to see what it takes to become a Paramedic or EMT.

Why Visit?

See our advanced simulation equipment in action. We pride ourselves on providing realistic environments that prepare our graduates for the high-pressure demands of the field.

Talk one-on-one with our experienced instructors who bring years of real-world expertise into the classroom.

Learn about the rewarding paths available in Emergency Medical Science and how our program sets you up for success from day one.

Come see how we bridge the gap between the classroom and the emergency scene. Your career in lifesaving starts here!

Do you have a heart for service? Whether you're interested in firefighting, law enforcement, emergency management, or EMS, CVCC’s Community Development & Public Safety Education programs prepare you for careers that make a real impact!

Meet instructors and explore career paths at CVCC’s Open House on March 23rd at 5:30 PM!

RSVP today at cvcc.edu/openhouse and receive a FREE T-shirt at the event while supplies last!

What an incredible day at Catawba Valley Community College! 🚑

We were honored to host the Regional Paramedic Competition, and the energy on campus was electric. Watching the area's top paramedic teams compete was an invaluable masterclass for our Paramedic Students; seeing that level of skill, composure, and teamwork in action is truly inspiring.

A huge congratulations to all the competing teams! The talent on display was world-class, and every participant should be proud of the dedication they brought to the floor.

The "Industrial Scene" simulation was a realistic challenge for the competitors. This level of realism wouldn’t have been possible without the generous prop donations from Arrow Door & Hardware in Hickory, NC. Thank you for investing in the future of emergency medicine and helping us create a top-tier scenario environment!

We are already looking forward to next year. Stay safe out there!

The Paramedic Class of 2026 has officially completed their third semester and are now stepping into Capstone, the final stretch before graduation!
Their hard work and dedication has been inspiring, and they finished the year strong with an amazing high-fidelity simulation lab led by our outstanding Medical Director Dr. Jason Coffey and guest lecturer PA Hunter Hardaway.
A special thank you to A & H Meats for their generous donation and support—this event wouldn’t have been possible without you!

We are proud to recognize and sincerely thank Catawba Valley Medical Center for over 15 years of unwavering support and collaboration with the CVCC Paramedic Program.

This enduring partnership has provided our students with exceptional clinical experiences, mentorship, and real-world learning that truly prepares them for the demands of the EMS profession. CVMC’s commitment to education has made a lasting impact on countless future paramedics.

Here’s to continuing this incredible journey of shaping the next generation of EMS professionals!

Wearing that badge is no small feat; it carries the weight of responsibility. Remember, you’re not just saving lives; you’re giving hope. Stand tall and let that pride fuel your passion!

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Do you have a heart for service? Whether you're interested in firefighting, law enforcement, emergency management, or community leadership, CVCC’s Community Development & Public Safety Education programs prepare you for careers that make a real impact!

Meet instructors and explore career paths at CVCC’s Open House on March 31st at 5:30 PM!

RSVP today at cvcc.edu to receive a FREE T-shirt at the event while supplies last!

Students have been working on their physical fitness all semester. This summer they were introduced to the CrossFit gym. They have been able to work on new skills and increase confidence in themselves.

A huge thank you to Crossfit Catawba Valley for letting our students come in and use the facilities.

*TECC First Responder Course Announcement*

We are running two NAEMT TECC First Responder courses. One on Friday June 28th and another one on Friday August 2nd.

This 8-hour course provides essential training to law enforcement and fire/rescue personnel on the concepts of tactical scenario patient care and operations.

To register email [email protected]

Paramedic Class of 2024! Over the past 16 months these individuals have put in the hard work, blood, sweat and maybe a few tears to get to this point. Finals are done, clinical time is done, and you all have made it! Congratulations!

All pictures made possible by Mills & Co. Photography at our annual Night Simulations event. Thanks Elizabeth for some amazing pictures!

Fire Instructor dates are up! See flyer for all the details