On Monday, May 13, 2024, the Culpeper Technical Education Center (CTEC) held its first Health Sciences Pinning Ceremony for the students of three programs, Health Care Technician (HCT), Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), and Medical Assistant (MA).
The CTEC Blaze Kitchen provided refreshments at the evening celebration where families gathered to recognize our students' dedication, hard work, and accomplishments. From mastering complex medical procedures to demonstrating compassion and empathy in patient care, these students have shown remarkable growth and determination throughout these programs this year.
"CTEC is thrilled to have had the opportunity to celebrate this milestone along with our students and their families,” said CTEC Principal Shaun Summerscales. “We look forward to seeing our skilled scholars embrace every opportunity to learn, grow, and adapt to the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare. I would also like to thank our amazing instructors who made this moment possible," he said, noting that they have poured their knowledge, passion, and guidance into the CTEC Health Sciences students this year. Instructors for these programs include Ms. Barlow, Medical Assistant instructor, Ms. Hart, EMT instructor, and Ms. Brooks, Ms. Stockslager, and Ms. Rumsey, HCT instructors.
The goal of the EMT students was to earn their National Registry EMT certification. The Virginia Office of Emergency Medical Services recognizes all current National Registry certifications for reciprocity. The students all worked very hard, putting in extra hours to accomplish their goals. While some students did not pass the National Registry, they all completed the course and gained life-long skills that will be with them for the rest of their lives.
In its first year, the Medical Assistant program saw great success. Instructor, Jeanie Barlow said, “It is truly a blessing to have started my nursing career through Career and Technical Education in high school and now I am able to pull from my 28 years of nursing experience to mold my MA students into healthcare workers that I would be proud to work alongside in the field.” She continued, “My students took on the challenge of becoming the first CTEC class of Certified Clinical Medical Assistants with grace and professionalism. I am so proud of each of them.”
CTEC would like to give special thanks to educational partners who include Culpeper County Emergency Services - Company 12, Culpeper County Health Department, Culpeper County Sheriff’s Office, Culpeper Health and Rehabilitation Center, Culpeper UVA Hospital Ambulance: Eric Gould, Dogwood Village – Orange County, EMT Medical Director: Dr. Matthew Rhames,
Germanna Community College: Pam Bertone, and Rappahannock EMS Council.
Additional thanks to the Culpeper Wellness Foundation and UVA Health System for their financial support of these programs.