In a significant move to strengthen the quality of Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) education in the district, Pflugerville ISD, in collaboration with Travis County Emergency Services District #2 and the Pflugerville Community Development Corporation (PCDC), is launching a dedicated Fire and EMT Academy Mobile Learning Lab (Ambulance). The ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking the inauguration of this state-of-the-art facility, took place today at 2 p.m. at Hendrickson High School, symbolizing a significant leap forward in hands-on, experiential learning for aspiring EMT professionals in the district.
In May, the PCDC Board awarded a $35,000 Community Engagement Grant to the PfISD, enabling the district to purchase a decommissioned ambulance with the goal of refurbishing it to serve as a hands-on training tool for students and put the program on wheels. Later in August, a second PCDC grant award of $42,000 for ambulance equipment met that goal and now provides a simulation learning experience for all students.
“The PCDC was excited to support our education partners and help put this program on the move so it can provide a realistic training program and literally roll it out at other campuses. Our grant further amplifies the commitment of our community partnership with the PFISD and ESD #2 to nurture the next generation of medical professionals,” said Amy Madison, PCDC Executive Director.
“We always appreciate the help of our sponsors and partners, but it is extra special when it is an organization within our PfISD community,” Superintendent Dr. Douglas Killian said. “We know how important it is for us to prepare our students to join the workforce right after graduation, especially in these first responder roles. This partnership will help ensure that our students will have the knowledge and skills to serve their community.”
The primary aim of this ambulance is to provide students with industry-standard equipment, giving them firsthand experience and preparing them for real-world ambulance ride-outs. Furthermore, the ambulance will play an essential role in training students on operations in confined spaces, imparting essential field-based training exercises, and introducing middle school students to the EMT program, thereby raising community awareness.
Hendrickson High School will be the secure storage site for the ambulance, which houses the Fire/EMT Academy. This strategic decision ensures easy and regular access for both instructors and students alike.
Since its inception in 2020, the Healthcare-EMT Academy has trained 59 students, and the Fire/EMT Academy has trained 41 students. A significant achievement to note is that at least half of these trained students have already earned at least one certificate, showcasing the quality and effectiveness of the training imparted.
This Mobile Learning Lab stands as a pillar of inspiration for students eager to embark on an EMT career, reflecting PfISD’s steadfast commitment to superior education and training.
About the Pflugerville Community Development Corporation
The voters of the City of Pflugerville approved the formation of the Pflugerville Community Development Corporation in 2001. The PCDC is a Type B corporation in the state of Texas and funded by a one-half-cent sales tax collection. The Pflugerville City Council appoints a seven-member board to oversee policy, and the organization now employs six staff members to support programming and operations.
The Pflugerville Community Development Corporation is responsible for attracting, retaining, and expanding businesses to create new jobs and increase tax revenue to support economic development and community development in the City of Pflugerville. The PCDC funds may be used to provide incentives for existing and recruited companies, construct needed infrastructure such as roads, utilities, and drainage, as well as the development of parks and recreation projects.
With a population of more than 74,000, Pflugerville is one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation attributed to its close location to downtown Austin in the desirable Central Texas region. State Highways 45 and 130 and Interstate Highway 35 offer direct access to other nearby cities and a quick route to five regional and international airports. For more information, visit www.pfdevelopment.com.
Press Contact:
Veronica Ramirez
Marketing Communication Manager
512-990-3725
veronicar@pfdevelopment.com
