Charleston’s Newest Life-Savers: Graduation of EMS Trainees

Charleston’s Newest Life-Savers: Graduation of EMS Trainees

Charleston’s newest wave of healthcare heroes celebrated their initiation into the world of emergency medical service (EMS) on Friday, May 31, 2024. After completing an arduous 14-week training, 21 EMS students from Charleston County Emergency Medical Services Academy received their graduation certificates during a ceremony at the North Charleston City Hall. This group of dedicated first responders, equipped with expert training and a shared passion for aiding their community, is now prepped to assume their roles as emergency lifesavers.

The Intense Schooling Experience

The academy’s rigorous training was akin to drinking from a fire hose for these budding EMS professionals. Their curriculum involved gaining hands-on experience by practicing CPR, driving emergency vehicles, and preparing for mass causality situations. These challenging schooling conditions have equipped them with essential skills required in high-stress scenarios.

Graduates on Their Academy Journey

Graduates expressed their dedication and deep-rooted desire to serve and help their local community. One standout among the graduates is Valedictorian Matt Jackson who embraced the camaraderie within the class, stating “It feels like everyone has a calling to help other people. We want to be as diverse as the community we serve.”

The EMS training has attracted students from varied backgrounds. Valedictorian Matt Jackson, for instance, holds a doctorate in Chemistry. He expressed his desire to veer away from conventional computer-based work and engage directly with community service.

Inspiration to Serve

For some of the EMS graduates, it was a personal connection that inspired them to follow this path. Among them is Holly Benke, the daughter of Capt. Mike Benke. Her father, a first responder, was one of the Charleston 9 who were tragically killed during a devastating fire outbreak at the Sofa Super Store in 2007. Holly and her sister decided to honor their father’s legacy by serving their community through the EMS Academy.

A Call to New Hopefuls

Following their graduation, the newly minted healthcare professionals are now certified to save lives. Their commencement also marks the prospect for a new influx of trainees. Deputy Chief Nathaniel Bialek expressed his eagerness to usher in the next batch of trainees, emphasizing, “If you want to help people, Charleston County EMS is the place to do it. If you want to truly impact people’s lives, Charleston County is the place to do it. We have a compassionate and integrity program that is second to none.”

The new academy session is slated to commence on Oct. 18, and the criteria for eligibility include being 18 years old and possessing a high school diploma, making this opportunity accessible to a wide range of community members.