FSW EMS Firefighter Program

Thank You to Collier County MedFlight!

As our paramedic students begin their field internship hours and transition into the trauma section of the program, the opportunity to learn from the professionals at Collier County MedFlight was the perfect addition to their education.

Students gained valuable insight into flight operations, the challenges and expectations of critical care transport, and the importance of thorough assessments and timely interventions. Interacting with such an elite team reinforced the significance of teamwork, professionalism, and proficiency in patient care.

Our students came prepared with plenty of questions, and the MedFlight crew generously shared their knowledge and experiences. They also gave students a firsthand look at the realities of working in the aircraft—including just how confined the workspace can be during patient care!

For several students, becoming a Flight Paramedic is a future career goal, making this experience even more impactful and inspiring.

We are incredibly grateful to the Collier County MedFlight team for investing in the next generation of paramedics and helping our students connect classroom learning with real-world practice.
Florida SouthWestern State College School of Allied Health

Not long ago, they were learning how to take a pulse.

Now, they’re preparing to take on real emergencies.

Finals week marks more than exams, it marks the transformation from student to EMT.

Every late night, every skills exam, every challenge… it all led to this moment.

We’re proud of how far they’ve come—and excited for the lives they’ll impact next. Best of luck to all of our students as the prepare for their exams. 🚑

These Students Don’t Back Down from the Flames!

Our students are putting their training into action during a controlled live fire exercise. This hands-on experience is critical for developing the skills firefighters rely on in real emergencies.

What’s happening here?
Students are working as a team to control and extinguish a contained fire using proper hose handling, communication, and positioning techniques.

We’re proud of these future firefighters as they train, learn, and rise to the challenge!

Ready to Lead? Advance Your Fire Service Career

Florida SouthWestern State College's Fire Officer Supervisor Certificate is designed for YOU—100% online and built around your schedule.

What You'll Gain:
- Leadership & management skills for supervisory roles.

- Coursework to qualify for Fire Officer I certification testing.

- Flexible online format. Only 4 classes (12 credits)

-College credits that transfer to our full AS degree program.

It's your direct path from the engine to the officer's seat. Get the strategic planning and emergency coordination expertise that sets leaders apart.

No full degree commitment required. Just focused, career-advancing training that prepares you for state certification and real-world leadership.

👉 Ready to take command of your career?

Learn more:

Fire Officer Supervisor, Certificate | Florida SouthWestern State College Move your career forward with Florida SouthWestern State College's Fire Officer Supervisor Certificate. Further your career in leadership while also preparing for State Certification Exams.

We’re excited to announce that applications for our August 2026 Paramedic Program open March 1st! Our program is designed specifically to meet the needs of working firefighters and first responders, with schedules built to support shift personnel.

Class Locations & Schedules:

• Lee Campus (A-Shift Schedule) — First day: August 26, 2026
• North Collier Partnership satellite location (C-Shift Schedule) — First day: August 25, 2026

What sets our program apart:
✔ Built-in Spring & Winter breaks to prevent burnout
✔ High-fidelity simulation training before field/clinical rotations
✔ Small cohorts with personalized instructor support from active field professionals
✔ In-person and online tutoring options
✔ Employer billing deferment & flexible payment options
✔ On-site 2-day NREMT test prep included

Our program goes beyond technical skills. We develop confident, competent, and compassionate leaders ready to make an immediate impact in their departments and communities.

Proven Results:
• 2024–2025 National Registry Pass Rate: 92.2%
• Current Pass Rate: 83.3% (with additional students yet to test)

If you are interested in advancing your career through paramedic certification, we’re here to help.

Contact us for more information or to prepare for the March 1 application opening!

https://www.fsw.edu/academics/programs/certparamedic

We want to extend our gratitude to the incredible LCEMS and CCEMS crews for their support of our EMT students this week!

Our students had the opportunity to learn the ins and outs of both agency’s trucks and have thier questioned answered. This experience prepares them for their field internship and introduces them to potenial future employers.

Partnerships like this make a lasting impact on the future of EMS, and we are so thankful for your dedication to education and mentorship.