Harnett County is proud to announce the graduation of Cohort Class 2 of the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Paramedic Academy Program. The graduates were celebrated at a ceremony held on Wednesday, November 6 where family, friends, and colleagues gathered to celebrate and honor their hard work and commitment.

This exceptional group of six has successfully completed a rigorous 30-week accelerated training program equipping them to respond to a range of emergencies.

“I know the last seven months has been hard,” said Laura Barney, Harnett County EMS Captain. “There is no doubt in my mind that each of you worked your tails off to be sitting in that chair today."

Harnett County Emergency Medical Services Chief, Alex Belanovich, established the idea of creating an in-house Paramedic Program over five years ago. The Paramedic Academy launched in 2023 and is a partnership between Harnett County and Central Carolina Community College to meet the industry needs and fill paramedic vacancies in the County. As demand for skilled emergency medical professionals grows, Harnett County is committed to providing top-notch training for those called to this vital career.

“You have learned to think critically, act swiftly, and compassionately, often in the face of the unexpected. The skills you have acquired will not only prepare you to provide the highest level of care to your patients but will also enable you to be a source of comfort and hope during some of their most difficult time,” said Belanovich.

Harnett County would like to congratulate the following graduates: Samantha Barnes, Brittani Bischoff, Antonio Brown, Haley Parham, Kayla Retsch, and Alixsandra “Ren” Subella.

Antonio Brown began with Harnett County in November 2023 and participated in the program to make a difference.

“I strive to be a better provider every day for the people of Harnett County. I can make a difference in someone’s life when they are in a time of need. I want to be there for people,” said Brown.

Barnes began her career with Harnett County in 2019.

“This career allows me to take care of people the way that I would want someone to be there for my family in their time of need,” said Barnes.

Individuals interested in participating in the Paramedic Academy Program can contact Chief Belanovich at abelanovich@harnett.org

To learn more about Harnett County EMS visit https://harnett.org/ems/

Harnett County is one of the fastest growing counties in North Carolina with approximately 140,000 residents. Harnett's tagline of "Strong Roots, New Growth," describes a county in transition, one that values its rural agricultural heritage while also embracing new growth and industry. Harnett County is optimally located just between North Carolina's capital city of Raleigh and the internationally recognized Research Triangle Park to the north, and the nation's largest military installation in Fort Liberty to the south. 

For more information, contact Community Relations Director, Desiree Patrick at publicinfo@harnett.org or 910-893-7555.