Photo: Nelson DiVall and Andrew Kontz
The Central Arizona Fire and Medical Authority (CAFMA) is pleased to announce the graduation of Firefighters Nelson DiVall and Andrew Kontz from the Yavapai College Paramedic Program, Class 15. Both firefighters have successfully attained paramedic certification through the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT).
While all CAFMA firefighters already possess certification as Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT), the pursuit of paramedic certification signifies a heightened level of expertise. It is noteworthy that every CAFMA fire engine is staffed with a minimum of one paramedic, and several engines have two or more.
Paramedics play a crucial role in providing extensive, pre-hospital care, often in complex, high stress situations. A paramedic must have a desire to serve, possess critical thinking skills, communicate concise and accurate information, and commit to continual learning and skills maintenance.
The Yavapai College Paramedic Program is comprehensive, with DiVall and Kontz completing an intensive 1600 program hours. This rigorous curriculum included over 150 hours of clinical experience and nearly 400 hours of field internships, equipping them with the essential skills and knowledge needed to excel in their roles as paramedics. CAFMA is confident that their commitment to excellence will significantly contribute to the well-being of the community.
“Well trained, highly skilled, dedicated paramedics are vital to the success of a comprehensive Emergency Medical Services (EMS) system, and we’re grateful to Yavapai College for a fantastic program. CAFMA is proud of our commitment to delivering the best possible emergency medical care for our community,” said Doug Niemynski, CAFMA EMS Chief.
CAFMA is excited to share that eight additional firefighters are currently enrolled in the Yavapai College Paramedic Program, further strengthening the organization’s capabilities.
ABOUT CAFMA
The Central Arizona Fire and Medical Authority (CAFMA) provides emergency services and all hazards response for 369 square miles of Yavapai County, Arizona, including the towns of Prescott Valley, Chino Valley, Dewey-Humboldt, areas of Paulden, and outlying areas of Prescott.
