Latest Technology Available in BTC Fire Science and EMS Programs

Whether an individual is seeking professional development or continuing education or a degree program, Blackhawk Technical College Fire Science programs have many options to help students advance in their career. “The fire science industry is constantly changing and evolving. To meet those needs, BTC provides classes at a variety of locations and times in Rock and Green Counties. We present the classes in the format that works best for our students,” said Rob Balsamo, BTC Coordinator of EMS and Fire Science Programs. Formal education for firefighters and leaders in fire science has become an expectation, not the exception.

Rob has over three decades of experience in the fire and EMS field. His initial training came from his father who served as a volunteer firefighter. Later, Rob sought out higher education to help advance his skills and career. Fast forward a few decades…today, he is the Coordinator of Fire Science and Emergency Medical Services programs at the college.

“As the program coordinator, I no longer teach but I get to drop in on the classes to help out and observe. It gives me time to visit with students and to continually evaluate our offerings for improvement,” said Balsamo.

Rob’s role in and out of the classroom provides him with valuable insight and information to help continuously improve the Fire and EMS programs at BTC. Continuous improvement in the program is vital to stay up to date on the latest trends and technology in the industry. Some of the new equipment for EMS includes simulated cardiac monitors, several simulated manikins, and casualty care props for wound packing. Fire Science has added search/confined space trailer, mobile forced entry prop, roof simulation trailer, mobile live fire trailer, and more.

The changes and upgrades in equipment mean the program is no longer locked to a single geographic area — the Fire Science and EMS programs are more mobile than ever before. Classes can be provided at a variety of locations and in a variety of times; such as evenings and weekends. That flexibility also includes online, video and flexible labs; formats that work for our busy students.

Rob concluded, “Our industry is always changing and so is BTC. So we work closely with industry partners to adapt and meet the needs of students. We provide students and partners the most up-to-date information and equipment to train on. This has led to better communication and cooperation between us all which has led to a better education system for our firefighters.”

Hear more about the Fire Protection Technician and Emergency Medical Technician programs from Rob Balsamo: