Premier High School – Corpus Christi, serving grades 9-12, and TexasWorks – Corpus Christi, serving adults ages 18-50, are proud to announce a new Career & Technical Education (CTE) Fire/EMT program, designed to prepare students for meaningful, high-demand careers in emergency services in the Spring 2026 semester.
Offered in partnership with the National Fire and Rescue Training Center (NFRTC), the one-year, tuition-free program allows students to earn a Fire/EMT certification while completing their high school diploma. Throughout the program, students will train at NFRTC’s six-acre facility, which features a six-story burn tower, a water rescue pond, and state-of-the-art labs and classrooms. Upon completion, students will graduate prepared not only for postsecondary opportunities but also for immediate employment as certified Fire/EMTs.
Many comparable programs across the country require participants to pay tuition and can take up to two years to complete, making this program a unique, efficient, and equitable pathway for students interested in public safety careers.
Careers in fire protection and emergency medical services are more critical than ever. Through small class sizes, personalized instruction, and hands-on, rea
l-world training, the program prepares students to protect communities, respond to emergencies, save lives, and provide essential medical care in high-pressure situations. These professions offer strong job stability, opportunities for advancement, and the fulfillment that comes from serving others. By offering this program at the high school level, Premier High School and TexasWorks – Corpus Christi are helping students step directly into careers that make a real and lasting impact.
“This program is about opening doors for our students and meeting a real need in our community,” said Christopher Vasquez, Campus Director of Premier High School and TexasWorks – Corpus Christi. “By partnering with NFRTC, we’re able to offer high-quality Fire/EMT training at no cost, giving students a unique hands-on experience and a clear pathway to a respected, in-demand career while earning their high school diploma.”
Why Career and Technical Education (CTE)? Students can begin training for a career while earning their diploma. CTE provides students with the skills and training to further their education and pursue meaningful careers in high-demand professions.
Find a Premier High School or TexasWorks campus near you to learn about the unique educational opportunities these campuses offer students.
