Emergency Services

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Emergency Services

Emergency Services are a crucial component of any community, encompassing a diverse range of professionals and organizations that are dedicated to ensuring public safety during crises. Fire Department Emergency Medical Services (EMS) are one part of a community backbone. EMS and Fire Services play a pivotal role in safeguarding lives and properties during a crisis. EMS departments, equipped with skilled Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs), Advanced Emergency Medical Technicians (AEMT), Paramedics, and life-saving equipment, provide immediate medical care to patients in different situations. Simultaneously, Fire Departments respond to fires, rescues, and hazardous incidents, utilizing specialized training and advanced tools to combat emergencies effectively. Together, these dedicated individuals collaborate seamlessly to ensure a rapid and comprehensive response, embodying the frontline heroes who stand ready to protect and serve communities in their times of need.

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Some of the classes at Iowa Western Continuing Education include:

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Available Courses

This course is paired with an in-person skills session that will need to be completed and scheduled separately by contacting Continuing Education at 712-325-3255 or by email at ce@iwcc.edu.
These courses are structured to meet the certification and training needs for those involved in healthcare, or those who plan to enroll in healthcare courses (nursing, physicians, dentistry, EMT or paramedic, CNAs, and others).
This course will include training on AED (Automated External Defibrillator) infant, child and adult CPR, foreign body obstruction, and the use of bag-value mask device for the healthcare provider.

Start Date: 02/09/25
End Date: 02/15/25
Seats Available: 7
Cost: $80
Location: Online

This course is paired with an in-person skills session that will need to be completed and scheduled separately by contacting Continuing Education at 712-325-3255 or by email at ce@iwcc.edu.
These courses are structured to meet the certification and training needs for those involved in healthcare, or those who plan to enroll in healthcare courses (nursing, physicians, dentistry, EMT or paramedic, CNAs, and others).
This course will include training on AED (Automated External Defibrillator) infant, child and adult CPR, foreign body obstruction, and the use of bag-value mask device for the healthcare provider.

Start Date: 02/16/25
End Date: 02/22/25
Seats Available: 8
Cost: $80
Location: Online
Start Date: 02/16/25
End Date: 02/22/25
Seats Available: 9
Cost: $80
Location: Online

This course is paired with an in-person skills session that will need to be completed and scheduled separately by contacting Continuing Education at 712-325-3255 or by email at ce@iwcc.edu.
These courses are structured to meet the certification and training needs for those involved in healthcare, or those who plan to enroll in healthcare courses (nursing, physicians, dentistry, EMT or paramedic, CNAs, and others).
This course will include training on AED (Automated External Defibrillator) infant, child and adult CPR, foreign body obstruction, and the use of bag-value mask device for the healthcare provider.

Start Date: 02/23/25
End Date: 03/01/25
Seats Available: 10
Cost: $80
Location: Online

This course is paired with an in-person skills session that will need to be completed and scheduled separately by contacting Continuing Education at 712-325-3255 or by email at ce@iwcc.edu.
These courses are structured to meet the certification and training needs for those involved in healthcare, or those who plan to enroll in healthcare courses (nursing, physicians, dentistry, EMT or paramedic, CNAs, and others).
This course will include training on AED (Automated External Defibrillator) infant, child and adult CPR, foreign body obstruction, and the use of bag-value mask device for the healthcare provider.

Start Date: 03/02/25
End Date: 03/08/25
Seats Available: 9
Cost: $80
Location: Online
   03/05/25 - Council Bluffs

Wednesday, March 5th 10:00AM - 1:00PM - Looft Hall - Room #112
This course is intended for those interested in becoming a CPR instructor.  Check out AHA Instructor Requirements before registering for this course.  Candidates interested in becoming an instructor must complete instructor paperwork and show their current BLS provider certification prior to registration. Call 712.325.3294 or 712.325.3255 or email ekea@iwcc.edu with current certification.

Start Date: 03/05/25
End Date: 07/02/25
Seats Available: 8
Cost: $425
Location: Council Bluffs

March 6, 2025 from 6:00pm-8:00pm Shelby County Center

Suicide Prevention training is designed to equip First Responders with knowledge, skills, and tools to recognize, respond to, and intervene in situations involving suicide risk, both for the public they serve and for themselves.  Given the high-stress and traumatic nature of their work, First Responders are particularly vulnerable to mental health challenges including depression, PTSD, and suicide.  This training aims to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and promote early intervention, ultimately fostering a culture of support and care that prioritizes the mental health of First Responders.
Key components of Suicide Prevention:
- Understanding suicide risk factors
- Recognizing warning signs of suicide
- Addressing stigma around suicide and mental health in First Responders
- Intervention strategies and crisis management
- Assessing suicide risk
- Safety plans and referrals

Start Date: 03/06/25
End Date: 03/06/25
Seats Available: 25
Cost: $0
Location: Harlan

This course is paired with an in-person skills session that will need to be completed and scheduled separately by contacting Continuing Education at 712-325-3255 or by email at ce@iwcc.edu.

These courses are structured to meet the certification and training needs for those involved in healthcare, or those who plan to enroll in healthcare courses (nursing, physicians, dentistry, EMT or paramedic, CNAs, and others).

This course will include training on AED (Automated External Defibrillator) infant, child and adult CPR, foreign body obstruction, and the use of bag-value mask device for the healthcare provider.

Start Date: 03/09/25
End Date: 03/15/25
Seats Available: 9
Cost: $80
Location: Online

EMT course emphasizes the development of student's skills in a patient assessment based program, recognition of signs and symptoms regarding illness or injury and the proper procedures when rendering emergency care to the sick or injured. Students will also be required to complete 36 hours of field internship and 24 hours of ER internship.

 

This class will be held at IWCC Cass County Center in Atlantic, IA and meet on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:00pm-10:00pm.

Start Date: 03/11/25
End Date: 06/26/25
Seats Available: 1
Cost: $1395
Location: Atlantic

March 12, 2025 from 6:00pm-8:00pm at Clarinda Center

The Science Behind Trauma is an essential educational training equipping First Responders with the knowledge of what occurs in the brain and body following trauma.  The goal of this training is to enhance the ability of First Responders to recognize, understand, and appropriately address both the psychological and physical impacts of trauma.  It also aims to educate First Responders to reduce the risk of secondary trauma or compassion fatigue among themselves.

Key components of the Science Behind Trauma:
• Understanding trauma
• Understanding brain structure and how it’s affected by trauma
• Recognizing signs of trauma in the body
• Trauma-informed care

Start Date: 03/12/25
End Date: 03/12/25
Seats Available: 25
Cost: $0
Location: Clarinda Center
   03/16/25 - Council Bluffs

This course is paired with an in-person skills session that will need to be completed and scheduled separately by contacting Continuing Education at 712-325-3255 or by email at ce@iwcc.edu.

These courses are structured to meet the certification and training needs for those involved in healthcare, or those who plan to enroll in healthcare courses (nursing, physicians, dentistry, EMT or paramedic, CNAs, and others).

This course will include training on AED (Automated External Defibrillator) infant, child and adult CPR, foreign body obstruction, and the use of bag-value mask device for the healthcare provider.

Start Date: 03/16/25
End Date: 03/22/25
Seats Available: 10
Cost: $80
Location: Council Bluffs
   03/18/25 - Clarinda Campus

CLARINDA LOCATION
Tuesday, March 18th, 2025 starting at 6:00pm
This course is a hybrid class with the in-person skills testing to occur at this time and place.  Heartsaver CPR/AED and first aid covers adult, child, and infant CPR/AED, first aid to include choking.  It is accepted by DHHS and OSHA.  The online eCodes to complete the course will be sent two weeks prior to registration.  If registering after March 4th please send an email to the course coordinator at ekea@iwcc.edu

Start Date: 03/18/25
End Date: 03/18/25
Seats Available: 15
Cost: $85
Location: Clarinda Campus
   03/23/25 - Council Bluffs

This course is paired with an in-person skills session that will need to be completed and scheduled separately by contacting Continuing Education at 712-325-3255 or by email at ce@iwcc.edu.

These courses are structured to meet the certification and training needs for those involved in healthcare, or those who plan to enroll in healthcare courses (nursing, physicians, dentistry, EMT or paramedic, CNAs, and others).

This course will include training on AED (Automated External Defibrillator) infant, child and adult CPR, foreign body obstruction, and the use of bag-value mask device for the healthcare provider.

Start Date: 03/23/25
End Date: 03/29/25
Seats Available: 10
Cost: $80
Location: Council Bluffs

This course is paired with an in-person skills session that will need to be completed and scheduled separately by contacting Continuing Education at 712-325-3255 or by email at ce@iwcc.edu

The Heartsaver Total course path of he Heartsaver First Aid CPR AED Online course is taught in a blended learning format. Students must complete the online portion, followed by the hands-on skills session conducted by Iowa Western. Students who successfully complete the online course and skills session will receive a CPR/AED/First Aid Course Completion card, valid for two years.

This class is intended for anyone is interested in learning or required to complete a CPR course. It will include Adult-Child-Infant (all ages) as well as CPR/AED/First Aid.

Start Date: 03/23/25
End Date: 03/29/25
Seats Available: 10
Cost: $80
Location: Online
   03/30/25 - Council Bluffs

This course is paired with an in-person skills session that will need to be completed and scheduled separately by contacting Continuing Education at 712-325-3255 or by email at ce@iwcc.edu.

These courses are structured to meet the certification and training needs for those involved in healthcare, or those who plan to enroll in healthcare courses (nursing, physicians, dentistry, EMT or paramedic, CNAs, and others).

This course will include training on AED (Automated External Defibrillator) infant, child and adult CPR, foreign body obstruction, and the use of bag-value mask device for the healthcare provider.

Start Date: 03/30/25
End Date: 04/05/25
Seats Available: 10
Cost: $80
Location: Council Bluffs

This course is paired with an in-person skills session that will need to be completed and scheduled separately by contacting Continuing Education at 712-325-3255 or by email at ce@iwcc.edu

The Heartsaver Total course path of he Heartsaver First Aid CPR AED Online course is taught in a blended learning format. Students must complete the online portion, followed by the hands-on skills session conducted by Iowa Western. Students who successfully complete the online course and skills session will receive a CPR/AED/First Aid Course Completion card, valid for two years.

This class is intended for anyone is interested in learning or required to complete a CPR course. It will include Adult-Child-Infant (all ages) as well as CPR/AED/First Aid.

Start Date: 03/30/25
End Date: 04/05/25
Seats Available: 10
Cost: $80
Location: Online
   04/02/25 - Online

Wednesday, April 2nd - ONLINE (Zoom)
This course is for instructors that are currently aligned with Iowa Western or would like to become aligned with Iowa Western and need their instructor certification renewed.  This course has paperwork that must be completed before class.  The paperwork and Zoom link will be emailed upon registration completion. 

Start Date: 04/02/25
End Date: 04/02/25
Seats Available: 9
Cost: $85
Location: Online
   04/06/25 - Council Bluffs
Start Date: 04/06/25
End Date: 04/12/25
Seats Available: 10
Cost: $80
Location: Council Bluffs

This course is paired with an in-person skills session that will need to be completed and scheduled separately by contacting Continuing Education at 712-325-3255 or by email at ce@iwcc.edu

The Heartsaver Total course path of he Heartsaver First Aid CPR AED Online course is taught in a blended learning format. Students must complete the online portion, followed by the hands-on skills session conducted by Iowa Western. Students who successfully complete the online course and skills session will receive a CPR/AED/First Aid Course Completion card, valid for two years.

This class is intended for anyone is interested in learning or required to complete a CPR course. It will include Adult-Child-Infant (all ages) as well as CPR/AED/First Aid.

Start Date: 04/06/25
End Date: 04/12/25
Seats Available: 10
Cost: $80
Location: Online

April 10, 2025 from 6:00pm-8:00pm at the Council Bluffs campus in Looft Hall Auditorium 

Resiliency for First Responders is designed to help individuals develop the mental, emotional, and physical skills necessary to withstand and recover from the challenges they face on the job.  The goal is to help First Responders build the resilience they need to manage stress, cope with trauma, and maintain their well-being over the long term, despite the demands of their profession.  

Key components of Resiliency Training:
• Understanding resilience and stress
• Stress management techniques
• Building emotional awareness and regulation
• Developing a growth mindset
• Cognitive resilience
• Building social support and team resilience
• Physical wellness and self-care
• Mindfulness and mental health awareness
• Work-life balance and boundary setting

Start Date: 04/10/25
End Date: 04/10/25
Seats Available: 100
Cost: $0
Location: Council Bluffs
   04/13/25 - Council Bluffs

This course is paired with an in-person skills session that will need to be completed and scheduled separately by contacting Continuing Education at 712-325-3255 or by email at ce@iwcc.edu.

These courses are structured to meet the certification and training needs for those involved in healthcare, or those who plan to enroll in healthcare courses (nursing, physicians, dentistry, EMT or paramedic, CNAs, and others).

This course will include training on AED (Automated External Defibrillator) infant, child and adult CPR, foreign body obstruction, and the use of bag-value mask device for the healthcare provider.

Start Date: 04/13/25
End Date: 04/19/25
Seats Available: 10
Cost: $80
Location: Council Bluffs

SHENANDOAH LOCATION
Monday, April 14th, 2025 starting at 6:00pm
This course is a hybrid class with the in-person skills testing to occur at this time and place.  Heartsaver CPR/AED and first aid covers adult, child, and infant CPR/AED, first aid to include choking.  It is accepted by DHHS and OSHA.  The online eCodes to complete the course will be sent two weeks prior to registration.  If registering after March 31st please send an email to the course coordinator at ekea@iwcc.edu

Start Date: 04/14/25
End Date: 04/14/25
Seats Available: 15
Cost: $85
Location: Shenandoah

April 17, 2025 from 6:00pm-8:00pm in Looft Hall

The Mental Health/Substance Use training equips First Responders with the tools and knowledge to confidently and compassionately assess, de-escalate, and respond to individuals experiencing mental health crises or substance use-related emergencies.  Designed for law enforcement, firefighters, EMS personnel, and other emergency responders, this training provides actionable strategies to foster empathy, reduce stigma, and enhance public safety.

Key components of Mental Health/Substance Use Training:
• Gain foundational knowledge about mental health conditions and substance use disorders.
• Learn to recognize signs and symptoms in high-pressure situations.
• Master de-escalation techniques to ensure safety for all parties.
• Understand how to connect individuals to appropriate resources and services.
• Build resilience and manage the impact of crisis response on your own mental well-being.

Start Date: 04/17/25
End Date: 04/17/25
Seats Available: 99
Cost: $0
Location: Council Bluffs Campus
   05/07/25 - Council Bluffs

Wednesday, May 7th 10:00AM - 1:00PM - Looft Hall - Room #112
This course is intended for those interested in becoming a CPR instructor.  Check out AHA Instructor Requirements before registering for this course.  Candidates interested in becoming an instructor must complete instructor paperwork and show their current BLS provider certification prior to registration. Call 712.325.3294 or 712.325.3255 or email ekea@iwcc.edu with current certification.

Start Date: 05/07/25
End Date: 05/07/25
Seats Available: 10
Cost: $425
Location: Council Bluffs
   05/07/25 - Online

Wednesday, May 7th - ONLINE (Zoom)
This course is for instructors that are currently aligned with Iowa Western or would like to become aligned with Iowa Western and need their instructor certification renewed.  This course has paperwork that must be completed before class.  The paperwork and Zoom link will be emailed upon registration completion.   

Start Date: 05/07/25
End Date: 05/07/25
Seats Available: 10
Cost: $85
Location: Online

May 15, 2025 from 6:00pm-8:00pm at Page/ Fremont County Center

Thin Line Between Two Families training provides information on how to strengthen and bring balance between your home and First Responder families.  Learn how to improve communication, boundaries, and overall balance while managing the stress of being a First Responder.

Start Date: 05/15/25
End Date: 05/15/25
Seats Available: 30
Cost: $0
Location: Page/Fremont County Center
   06/04/25 - Online

Wednesday, June 4th - ONLINE (Zoom)
This course is for instructors that are currently aligned with Iowa Western or would like to become aligned with Iowa Western and need their instructor certification renewed.  This course has paperwork that must be completed before class.  The paperwork and Zoom link will be emailed upon registration completion.   

Start Date: 06/04/25
End Date: 06/04/25
Seats Available: 10
Cost: $85
Location: Online
   07/02/25 - Council Bluffs
Start Date: 07/02/25
End Date: 07/02/25
Seats Available: 10
Cost: $425
Location: Council Bluffs
   07/02/25 - Online

Wednesday, July 2nd - ONLINE (Zoom)
This course is for instructors that are currently aligned with Iowa Western or would like to become aligned with Iowa Western and need their instructor certification renewed.  This course has paperwork that must be completed before class.  The paperwork and Zoom link will be emailed upon registration completion.   

Start Date: 07/02/25
End Date: 07/02/25
Seats Available: 10
Cost: $85
Location: Online
   09/03/25 - Council Bluffs

Wednesday, September 3rd 10:00AM - 1:00PM - Looft Hall - Room #112
This course is intended for those interested in becoming a CPR instructor.  Check out AHA Instructor Requirements before registering for this course.  Candidates interested in becoming an instructor must complete instructor paperwork and show their current BLS provider certification prior to registration. Call 712.325.3294 or 712.325.3255 or email ekea@iwcc.edu with current certification.

Start Date: 09/03/25
End Date: 09/03/25
Seats Available: 10
Cost: $425
Location: Council Bluffs
   11/05/25 - Council Bluffs

Wednesday, November 5th 10:00AM - 1:00PM - Looft Hall - Room #112
This course is intended for those interested in becoming a CPR instructor.  Check out AHA Instructor Requirements before registering for this course.  Candidates interested in becoming an instructor must complete instructor paperwork and show their current BLS provider certification prior to registration. Call 712.325.3294 or 712.325.3255 or email ekea@iwcc.edu with current certification.

Start Date: 11/05/25
End Date: 11/05/25
Seats Available: 10
Cost: $425
Location: Council Bluffs


Refunds: You may cancel your registration 5 business days prior to the start of the class date and receive a 100% refund excluding the $50 non-refundable processing fee. If contacting outside Iowa Western Community College’s Continuing Education Department business hours, leave a voicemail and or send the department an email. Iowa Western’s Continuing Education is not responsible for refunds if contact is not pursued via voicemail and or email. In compliance with the IWCC policy, refunds will only be produced in the form of a check. A check will be issued within 14 business days after the refund is admitted to the customer. Refund will be sent to the customer’s address that is on file. Certain program restrictions may apply. Contact Continuing Education for more details at ce@iwcc.edu.

Cancellations: Iowa Western reserves the right to cancel any class where difficulties arise in staffing or scheduling or where a minimum enrollment is not achieved. A full refund will be issued for all canceled classes.

Transfers/Withdrawals: Transfers may be subject to $25.00 transfer fee. Non-attendance for a class does not constitute a withdrawal and refunds are not issued for non-attendance. Transfers may be made up to two full business days (unless otherwise noted in the class information) prior to the start date of the class. After that time, transfers will not be permitted and no refund will be issued.