May 18, 2026
Story by Barton Communications
Photo by Scott Andersen
The Barton Community College Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Program recognized graduates during a cording ceremony Friday in the Fine Arts Auditorium, following completion of an intensive 16-month paramedic education program in Great Bend and Topeka.
Barton EMS Program Director Nick Larmer said the ceremony is always a meaningful event.
“It represents not only the completion of a rigorous educational journey, but also the beginning of a career dedicated to serving others during some of the most difficult moments of their lives,” he said. “Barton EMS Education remains proud of these graduates and the impact they will have on the future of emergency medical services.”
Barton EMS continues its long-standing tradition of preparing competent, compassionate caregivers to serve rural Kansas and surrounding communities. It was originally established in 1979 and is nationally accredited through the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) upon the recommendation of the Committee on Accreditation of Educational Programs for the Emergency Medical Services Professions (CoAEMSP).
Larmer said the program focuses on creating a well-rounded knowledge base through an intricate combination of classroom and hands-on learning.
“We do advanced medical simulation, hospital clinical rotations, and field internships alongside EMS agencies and healthcare partners across Kansas,” he said. “Throughout the program, students developed advanced lifesaving skills, including cardiac care, trauma management, airway intervention, pharmacology, critical thinking, leadership, and patient advocacy.”
Making sure students are well prepared is crucial to their ability to pass required certifications and be ready to work immediately upon graduation, Larmer said.
“This cohort has already completed national registry testing requirements, marking another successful year for Barton EMS Education and another group of graduates prepared to enter the workforce serving communities across the region,” he said. "We are committed to expanding access to high-quality EMS education in all communities through innovative hybrid learning models, hands-on simulation, and strong partnerships with local EMS agencies, hospitals, and healthcare organizations.”
Graduates included Kevin Patterson, Richard Plue, Anthony Ramirez, Mia Coley, Bradly Mize, Jordan Hartpence, and Michael Slobodnik.