Citrus College prepares students for careers in emergency medical care

By Laura J. Bollinger, Citrus College Governing Board Member

When an ambulance ride-along recently brought Sequoia Clark face-to-face with a person shot in the abdomen, she was grateful for the rigorous training she received as part of the Citrus College Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) program. Since enrolling in August 2024, the 20-year-old Claremont resident has developed a strong foundation in emergency medical procedures that proved valuable when treating the patient.

"My favorite component of the program has been having the opportunity to practice my new skills in real-life settings, such as in emergency rooms and responding to 911 calls," she said. "Being able to make a direct impact in patient outcomes is both rewarding and exciting."

Sequoia's experience is not unique. Every semester, anywhere from 45 to 70 students enroll in the Citrus College EMT program. Taught by a team of highly qualified paramedic and EMT experts, the curriculum integrates anatomy and physiology with basic life support skills, trauma care and professional behavior. Ultimately, the aim is to equip students with the knowledge, skills and expertise necessary to pass the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) certification exam and achieve professional success.

For over 50 years, the college's EMT program has been doing just this. Approved by NREMT and the Los Angeles County Department of Health Services, it has garnered widespread recognition for excellence in emergency medical training. In fact, Citrus College was handpicked to serve as the exclusive EMT and tactical medicine training center for Los Angeles-based federal agents.

As a result of its stellar reputation, the EMT program draws students from throughout Southern California. In addition to expert instruction, those who enroll receive access to unique scheduling options, such as one- or two-day-per-week classes. The curriculum also includes clinical rotation at local hospitals and ambulance services.

Another program benefit is hands-on experience using cutting-edge medical equipment. The college has invested over a million dollars in medical manikins, electrocardiogram (EKG) machines, defibrillators and more for use in its health sciences department. At the same time, approximately $250,000 in grant funds were utilized to purchase new and upgraded training equipment. Most recently, Falck donated a functional ambulance for outreach and skills drills purposes.

Of course, the EMT program challenges students with its rigor. Not only must they adhere to strict attendance requirements and follow guidelines for attire, but the coursework itself can be time-consuming. "You are expected to learn and execute new skills on a weekly basis, along with continuous tests on new concepts to ensure that you are on the right track," Sequoia explained. "Despite the daunting course load, these guidelines are essential for preparing us for field training exercises and clinicals."

After successfully completing all EMT program requirements, Citrus College students earn a skill award that demonstrates their competence in providing emergency medical care. They are also well-equipped to successfully complete the NREMT exams that will make them eligible to work as EMTs. In fact, Citrus College students have maintained a 100% pass rate on the exam for several years.

"It's exciting to get feedback from students who pass our program and go on to be hired as ambulance EMTs and emergency room technicians," said Albert Laicans, Citrus College EMT program coordinator. "Many use their emergency services care experience as a stepping stone to higher level careers."

This is exactly what Sequoia plans to do. Having completed her EMT certification in mid-December, her plan is to work for an ambulance company or secure a position as an emergency room technician to gain more medical experience. Additionally, she plans on completing her Citrus College education by summer 2025 and transferring to a four-year school to earn a bachelor's degree in public health. Ultimately, her goal is to attend medical school and become a doctor.

As Claremont's representative on the Citrus Community College District Board of Trustees, I'm thrilled to celebrate Sequoia's achievement. She is a prime example of the college's far-reaching impact on its surrounding communities. From first responders to automotive technicians, Citrus College trains skilled professionals who make a difference in the lives of others. I'm particularly proud of our EMT program, which addresses a critical need, and I am confident it will continue to adapt and thrive in the years to come.