Victoria College has implemented a state-of-the-art driving simulator to enhance its Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Program, providing students with valuable hands-on experience before entering the field.
Previously, the program’s training on the use of emergency vehicles primarily focused on classroom instruction about the rules of the road and emergency vehicle operations. Recognizing that EMTs spend a significant portion of their time driving ambulances, the program sought to improve its training by adding another hands-on component with the new simulator.
"With the support of the Johnson Foundation, we were able to acquire an EMS Driving Simulator, making Victoria College one of the few programs in the state to offer this advanced training," said Amy Mundy, Executive Director of Advancement and the VC Foundation.
The simulator allows students to practice driving maneuvers in both routine and emergency situations, including evasive steering, in a safe and controlled environment. Students experience realistic scenarios, such as encountering unexpected obstacles like pedestrians or cyclists, emphasizing the importance of situational awareness and defensive driving techniques.
"This simulator is a valuable addition to our EMS Program," said Susie Jechow, VC’s EMS Program Coordinator/Associate Professor. "It provides our students with crucial real-world experience and better prepares them for the challenges they will face as emergency medical professionals.”
For more information on the EMS Program at VC, visit VictoriaCollege.edu/PublicService.