Centre High Career Pathways - Emergency Response

Course Description

Are you interested in a career as a firefighter, paramedic, or police officer? The Emergency Response Career Pathway combines classroom learning with hands-on training, tours, volunteer opportunities, and guest lectures from working first responders.

All students are registered in daily fitness training at the Don Wheaton YMCA to physically prepare for these demanding careers. YMCA membership (~$135/semester, payable in monthly installments) is required. The pathway has two levels, each building on the last.

ERCP Level 1

Explore careers in firefighting, paramedicine, and police/security services. You'll study each field through hands-on training, tours of fire halls, dispatch centres, and STARS air ambulance, and hear from working first responders. You'll earn your Intermediate First Aid certification (Level C CPR and AED).

Prerequisite: None | Credits: 12

Requirements: Must be 17, turning 18 before the Level 2 semester. Medical release and criminal record check required. Uniform shirt (~$20) plus personal black pants, belt, and shoes.

ERCP Level 2

Advanced preparation for an emergency services career with a focus on leadership and organizational training. Depending on your interest, you may participate in live burn training with Edmonton Fire Rescue, community volunteering with Edmonton Police Service, ambulance tours with Alberta Health Services, wildland firefighting scenarios, and visits to the Edmonton Remand Centre.

Prerequisite: ERCP Level 1 | Credits: 12

Requirements: Must be 18 by September 30 (Semester 1) or February 28 (Semester 2). Medical release and criminal record check required. Uniform shirt (~$30) plus personal black pants, belt, and shoes.

Optional certifications: Fall Protection, H2S Alive, Confined Space (fees may apply).

Possible Jobs / Careers

Firefighter — Responding to fires, accidents, and emergencies to protect lives and property
Police Officer — Enforcing laws, investigating crimes, and maintaining public safety
Paramedic — Providing emergency medical care and transport in the field
Security Officer — Protecting people, property, and assets in public and private settings
Peace Officer — Enforcing provincial laws and municipal bylaws
Corrections Officer — Supervising inmates and maintaining security in correctional facilities
Dispatcher — Coordinating emergency response by routing calls to police, fire, and EMS
Conservation Officer — Enforcing wildlife and environmental protection laws
Border Security Officer — Screening travelers and goods at Canadian ports of entry
Private Investigator — Conducting investigations for legal, corporate, and private clients

Post-Secondary Connections

MacEwan University

NAIT

SAIT

Lakeland College

University of Alberta

Bachelor of Arts in Criminology

University of Lethbridge

Bachelor of Applied Science in Conservation Enforcement

Transferable Skills

Leadership — Taking charge in high-pressure situations and guiding others to safety
Teamwork — Working as a coordinated unit where communication and trust are critical
Physical fitness — Building and maintaining conditioning for demanding careers
Decision-making under pressure — Assessing situations quickly and choosing the right course of action
First aid & certifications — Earning credentials valued across multiple industries
Professionalism — Following protocols, wearing a uniform, and representing yourself with integrity

Course Media

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