Rowan-Cabarrus Community College has announced plans to bring an Emergency Preparedness Technology program to the college fall 2013, pending state approval.
“Development of new programs is part of the college’s vision and enrollment growth strategy,” said Dr. Carol S. Spalding, president of RCCC. “It’s vital that we have the resources to keep our programs current or develop new ones to address our local workforce needs.”
The college board has approved the proposal to apply for an Emergency Preparedness Technology program.
“Being prepared for emergency situations is becoming exceedingly more important in our world. It’s critical to be ready for both natural disasters and manmade situations that are evolving faster than technology,” said Kimberly Boling, program developer of the Emergency Preparedness Technology program and coordinator of the Online Criminal Justice Program.
The Emergency Preparedness program will be designed for individuals who are seeking careers that are related to management of emergency and catastrophic situations. Tornadoes, floods, earthquakes, hurricanes, hazardous chemical spills, and acts of terrorism are all examples of public emergencies in which lives and property are threatened. This degree will prepare students for a position in both public or private sector agencies as well as organizations like FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) that work to minimize the effects of disasters on the public through planning effective response operations and public education.
Students will hone skills including communication, decision-making, problem-solving and effective planning. Students will also learn local, state and federal regulations and how to develop an up-to-date emergency plan that incorporates these regulations. The Emergency Preparedness Technology program would also include an emphasis on leadership and decisive decision making, critical in emergency situations.
For more information about RCCC, visit www.rccc.edu or call 704-216-RCCC (7222).