NORTHERN LAKES COLLEGE
College Launches Integrated Fire and EMS Program

Northern Lakes College is excited to add a new program to its Health Careers program roster. The Integrated Fire and Emergency Medical Services program starts in September 2023, and combines firefighter training with the College's Primary Care Paramedic program. The program is the result of a partnership between the Lesser Slave Regional Fire Service, and Northern Lakes College.

Firefighter training is delivered through the Lesser Slave Regional Fire Service. The hands-on pieces of the training will be delivered at the state-of-the-art training grounds at the Lesser Slave Regional Fire Service Station 1 in Slave Lake. During the training, students will have the opportunity to live and work at the Lesser Slave Regional Fire Service Station, responding to fire-related emergencies. Upon successful completion of examinations and evaluations by an approved proctor/evaluator, students will be eligible to apply for internationally recognized certification from the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC) and Pro-board via the Ministry of Municipal Affairs Technical and Corporate Services.

The Northern Lakes College Primary Care Paramedic (PCP) program is delivered through Supported Distance Learning, allowing students the freedom and flexibility to remain employed in their home communities for the theory portion of the program. Hands-on training is delivered through onsite labs and scenario-based training at the Slave Lake Campus. The theory portion of the program is followed by both a hospital and ambulance practicum. Completers of the PCP program are eligible to apply to the Advanced Care Paramedic program, also offered by NLC.

"The Lesser Slave Regional Fire Service is excited for this partnership opportunity with Northern Lakes College. There is a growing need for EMS and Fire Fighter trained personal, and giving the students the opportunity to learn on the job will allow them to have a better understanding of Emergency Services upon successful completion of the program." Alex Pavcek, Regional Fire Chief.

"Northern Lakes College welcomes partnership opportunities to increase training options for our service region. This partnership with the Lesser Slave Regional Fire Service provides students with an exciting opportunity to work as a firefighter and paramedic in a variety of settings, including fire stations, EMS, and integrated emergency service providers," comments Dr. Michelle Mitchell, Dean, Health, Human Services & University Studies.