High school students are training to become emergency medical technicians (EMTs) before
graduation through a pilot program between Radford University and Montgomery County
Public Schools (MCPS).
The partnerships come at a critical time, as the nationwide shortage of emergency
medical services (EMS) providers continues to impact local communities. Staffing shortages,
turnover rates and providers approaching retirement make it vital for new providers
to enter the field.
Angela Bowles, a Radford University continuing education student, said programs like
this are essential. “They develop caring, educated and well-prepared professionals
who are ready to lead EMS into the future and serve their communities with compassion
and skill.”
MCPS recently celebrated six students’ successful completion of the program, preparing
them to sit for their certification exam. An additional 20 students have completed
training through a similar program within Roanoke County Public Schools.
Hidden Valley High School senior Miya Morton said the EMT program was challenging
yet rewarding. “It was well worth it as the knowledge and life skills acquired are
applicable to daily life as well as situations when things go awry,” she said. Morton
plans to volunteer as an EMT while studying to become a doctor of osteopathic medicine.
These high school collaborations are part of Radford’s larger efforts to strengthen
the workforce pipeline in the region. According to Kari Whitney, Radford emergency
services program director, while enrollment has remained steady, demand has increased,
with applications doubling over the past few years, making acceptance more rigorous.
In addition to its partnerships, the Radford University emergency services program in Waldron College of Health and Human Services continues to build momentum across both its academic and continuing education efforts.
The degree completion track has steadily grown over the past year, with enrollment
projected to increase again in the spring 2027 semester.
“The continued success of our paramedic and EMT students shows there is a strong interest
in EMS education and a real need for trained providers across our region,” said Jake
Stewart, an instructor in Radford’s emergency services program. “Those partnerships
are creating real opportunities for students who want to enter the profession.”
Students interested in emergency services can pursue several pathways through the
program, including the EMT continuing education course, the bachelor’s degree program’s initial paramedic certification track and a degree completion track designed for
working professionals.
With enrollment projections for both the EMT and paramedic education programs increasing,
growth is also evident in outcomes. This spring, 15 students completed the university
paramedic program, while nine EMT students were near completion. Through Radford’s
partnership with Roanoke Fire-EMS, 14 students earned national registry paramedic
certification, while another 15 New River Valley students completed certification
requirements in December 2025.
“This growth isn’t just about numbers,” Stewart said. “It’s about building the next
generation of EMS professionals and helping meet the needs of the communities we serve.”
The program aims to continue expanding, preparing talent for the workforce and solidifying
Radford University as the premier destination for healthcare education in Southwest
Virginia.
