McDowell Technical Community College completed the 48th Annual Fire, Rescue and EMS College this past weekend, welcoming emergency responders from across Western North Carolina and beyond for a week of intensive, hands-on training.
Held throughout the week and concluding Sunday afternoon, the annual college provided critical instruction designed to strengthen the skills, coordination and readiness of fire, rescue and emergency medical personnel. Participants engaged in a wide range of courses focused on real-world response scenarios, reinforcing the college’s long-standing commitment to practical, high-quality training.
"This event reflects the very best of what community colleges are called to do," said Dr. J.W. Kelley, President of McDowell Technical Community College. "We are proud to support the men and women who serve on the front lines every day. Our Fire, Rescue and EMS College ensures that students leave here better prepared, more confident, and ready to protect the communities they serve.""
The annual training is made possible through strong collaboration between the college and its local and regional partners. The Fire, Rescue and EMS College is co-sponsored by McDowell Technical Community College and the McDowell County Fire and Rescue Training Committee, with additional support from the McDowell County Emergency Management Agency, the McDowell County Fire Commission and the McDowell County Fire and Rescue Association. The McDowell Fire, Rescue and EMS Training Committee oversees the planning and operation of the event.
Stacy Buff, Vice President of Workforce Development at McDowell Tech, emphasized the importance of continued training opportunities for first responders.
"Our emergency personnel face increasingly complex challenges, and training like this is essential,” said Buff. “We are grateful for the strong turnout and the commitment these responders show to improving their skills and serving their communities at the highest level."
"We deliver hands-on, scenario-based training that mirrors what responders encounter in the field,” added Ron Morgan, Director of Fire Training at the college. “That kind of experience is critical when seconds matter and decisions have real consequences."
"It is all part of our shared commitment to creating high-quality public safety across the region and throughout the state," he concluded.
For more information about fire, rescue and EMS training opportunities, visit the college's fire and rescue training website, www.mcdowellfireschool.com, or contact the Fire Training Office at 828-652-0674.
