Cochise College, a leading institution committed to accessible education supporting meaningful careers, proudly announces a milestone in first responder training. The First Responders Academy (FRA) has completed two groundbreaking projects, including constructing a 4.8-acre driving track and introducing an immersive ambulance simulator. These state-of-the-art additions revolutionize the training methods employed by first responders.
To celebrate these achievements, Cochise College invites the public to the Driving Track Ribbon Cutting and Ambulance Simulator Showcase. The momentous occasion will occur on Monday, July 31, with the Ribbon Cutting ceremony starting at 5 p.m. behind Sierra Vista Fire Station No. 3, located at 675 Giulio Cesare Ave in Sierra Vista. Following the Ribbon Cutting at 6 p.m., guests are invited to the Ambulance Simulator Showcase at Cochise College’s Downtown Center at 2600 E. Wilcox Drive in Sierra Vista.
Through an intergovernmental agreement between the City of Sierra Vista and Cochise College, the Driving Track is located east of Sierra Vista Fire Station No. 3. It is designed to provide students with a safe and controlled environment to master the challenges on the road. The track allows them to practice and improve their driving skills. By replicating real-life driving scenarios commonly encountered by first responders and commercial drivers, the training on a driving track gives students confidence and proficiency in high-stress situations.
Cochise College continues leading educational advancements by unveiling an innovative ambulance simulator that utilizes virtual reality technology for EMT and Paramedic training. Developed by SimLeader, this cutting-edge simulator offers students an immersive experience in realistic emergency response scenarios. By providing a risk-free environment, the simulator gives students invaluable hands-on experience and training hours before they face real-life emergencies. Installing this revolutionary technology at the Downtown Center signifies the college’s dedication to fostering collaborative relationships and providing innovative education to students and the communities we serve.
The public is cordially invited to attend the Driving Track Ribbon Cutting at 5 p.m. on Monday, July 31, at Fire Station No. 3, 675 Giulio Cesare Ave. in Sierra Vista. Immediately following the Ribbon Cutting, the Ambulance Simulator Showcase will start at 6 p.m. at the Cochise College Downtown Center.
This event offers attendees an exclusive opportunity to witness firsthand the advancements in first responder training. The showcase will allow visitors to explore the ambulance simulator and its capabilities. Appetizers and refreshments will be served. Please RSVP to Amber Baxter at baxtera@cochise.edu or (520) 515-5428 by July 20.
By embracing new learning experiences and innovative training methodologies, Cochise College offers over 90 general and technical education programs leading to associate degrees and workforce certificates. To explore the list of degrees and certificates offered, please visit www.cochise.edu.