Events
New Paramedics Strengthen Emergency Response Workforce
RALEIGH, N.C (January 13, 2026) – Wake Tech is celebrating 32 new paramedics who are prepared to support the region's growing emergency response needs. The college held a graduation ceremony Tuesday for students who completed the non-degree Emergency Medical Technician–Paramedic (EMT‑P) program.
These graduates were already serving on the front lines as experienced EMTs in Wake, Johnston, Edgecombe, Orange and Nash counties. Their new paramedic‑level training gives them expanded skills and greater decision-making abilities, allowing them to deliver an even higher level of care during critical emergencies.
"Thank you for trusting Wake Tech to help you deepen your skills and advance in your career of service," said Wake Tech President Dr. Scott Ralls. "As EMTs, you were already caring for our community. With this additional training, you're even better equipped to deliver life‑saving support when your neighbors need you most. We are incredibly proud of your continued commitment and dedication."
During the ceremony, graduates received special pins and certificates of completion. Several were recognized for outstanding achievement, including Stephen Yakaboski, who earned the Most Enthusiastic Student award from instructor Raven Hutto.
"Stephen studied constantly and always welcomed additional help," Hutto said. "He was never late to class, never missed a clinical and consistently pushed himself to excel. I'm extremely proud of the progress he made throughout the program."
Wake Tech's 12‑month EMT‑P program is designed specifically for practicing EMTs who want to move into roles as paramedics. The program includes nearly 1,200 hours of classroom instruction, hospital clinicals and field training with local EMS agencies. Students develop advanced skills in cardiac care, trauma response, pharmacology and the critical thinking needed to make fast, life‑saving decisions in the field.
Nearly all graduates have already passed the North Carolina Paramedic Credentialing Exam administered by the North Carolina Office of Emergency Medical Services, and several have applied to take the national exam.
State‑credentialed paramedics may also continue their education through Wake Tech's Emergency Medical Science Bridge AAS program, an online degree option designed for working paramedics. The program focuses on EMS management, leadership and advanced pre‑hospital practice – offered fully online to accommodate shift schedules.
The college also offers a traditional two‑year Emergency Medical Science AAS degree for individuals just beginning their EMS journey, along with a rotating schedule of non-degree EMT courses and refresher trainings for current professionals.
