An experienced paramedic and Army veteran, Adam Thompson brings a diverse background to Blackhawk Technical College as its new Program Director for EMS programs.
“The EMS industry is evolving rapidly, and Blackhawk’s commitment to innovation and student success positions us to meet those demands head-on. It’s an exciting time to be involved in this field,” said Adam, who has worked as an Advanced Practice Paramedic in Denver and Frisco, Colorado. He also was a Licensed Paramedic for Fort Bend County in Texas; for Cypress Creek EMS in Spring, Texas; and Lake Jackson EMS in Lake Jackson Township, Texas. He also currently holds a variety of medical certifications.
Adam will be the lead instructor for the EMT-Basic and Advanced EMT courses at the Beloit-Janesville Campus and will support the advancement of all EMS programs, including Blackhawk’s newly accredited Paramedic program.
Thompson’s interest in medical care began in 2005 when he enlisted in the U.S. Army as a military police officer and was assigned to combat lifesaver duty.
“After two combat deployments during Operation Iraqi Freedom, I discovered a strong calling toward medical care. I served for seven years in the 911 emergency system covering the wild areas of North Houston and surrounding communities, followed by a year of Alpine Rescue and Transfer Care in Colorado’s high-altitude summit region. I also trained as a deep-sea commercial diver at the Divers Institute of Technology and worked for Ranger Offshore in the Gulf of Mexico,” he said.
Thompson, a native of Las Vegas, earned his Associate of Business degree from Olympic College in Bremerton, Washington, in 2016. He then received an Associate of Applied Science in Emergency Medical Technology from Alvin College in Alvin, Texas, in 2019. Following that, he completed a Bachelor of Science in Emergency Health Services from University of Texas-Health in San Antonio, Texas, in 2025. Thompson served in the Army National Guard from 2005 until 2013, assisting with Operation Iraqi Freedom before being stationed in Grafenwoehr/Vilseck, Germany.
“In 2010, I volunteered to help the Wisconsin Army National Guard, Delta Company 2-127th Infantry, with a combat deployment to Taji, Iraq. I made many friends during my time, more so than other groups I've been attached to,” Thompson shared. “As I completed seven years of high-intensity 911 service in the North Houston area and a year of Alpine Critical Care in Denver, I began to seek community and recalled my fondness for Wisconsin citizens! So, I decided to relocate upon completing my bachelor's program to join the community I care about and for.”
That brought Thompson to Wisconsin and, subsequently, to Blackhawk.
“What I appreciate most about Blackhawk Technical College is its deep connection to the rural communities of Wisconsin. The staff, leadership and teaching team not only are dedicated professionals—they also live in the areas they serve. Their firsthand understanding of the unique challenges facing rural EMS systems, from Madison to Milwaukee, gives Blackhawk an edge in delivering relevant, effective training,” he said.
Outside of work, Thompson said he enjoys spending time outdoors, often exploring local trails with his dog, BB-8.
“I’m also involved in community activities and value building connections that strengthen the support network around EMS and education. Family and community are important to me, and I try to give back whenever I can,” Adam said.