Anna Maria College in Paxton on Thursday announced a five-year partnership with the Paxton Fire Department to offer students real-world experience.
In addition to designating emergency and non-emergency services for the college, the deal provides expanded opportunities for select students to gain firsthand knowledge about operating first responder agencies. At Anna Maria College, fire science and paramedic science are among the most popular majors.
“Each year we look forward to welcoming Anna Maria College students into our department,” said Michael Pingitore, fire chief at Town of Paxton Fire Department, in a press release. “The goal of this program is to give the students the opportunity to gain real-life experience in the professional roles and departments they plan to enter upon graduation.”
The deal will allow certain students planned experiential opportunities through the Paxton Fire Department Student Participation program. Participants will gain operational training skills and an understanding of the services provided by Paxton Fire and emergency medical services.