Service, leadership and an unwavering dedication to the future of emergency medical services have been the focus of Tina Jordan’s 36-year career at Blackhawk Technical College.
Tina’s work in Blackhawk’s classrooms began in 1989 when she started teaching CPR and first aid. It wasn’t long before she expanded her role, assisting with EMT courses and developing a deep commitment to educating the next generation of EMS professionals.
By 2002, she had committed fully to teaching at Blackhawk. One of her many pioneering achievements was coordinating Blackhawk’s first Human Simulation Lab—before simulation was even widely recognized as an essential training tool. Her teaching philosophy was always hands-on and scenario-based.
“If it is not in the hand, it is not connected in the brain,” she said.
Today, as her career winds down, she still teaches at all levels of EMS, including Tactical Emergency Casualty Care, ensuring students receive the highest quality training to prepare them for the unpredictable world of emergency medicine.
Real-world experience
Tina’s expertise is not just theoretical—she has spent decades in the field as a Critical Care Paramedic, serving in both Wisconsin and Illinois. Her experience with Green County EMS, Juda Fire and Rescue, and New Glarus EMS has given her a wealth of real-world knowledge, which she has consistently brought back to the classroom.
“Blackhawk’s small class sizes are a great benefit to students. The EMS program gives students a huge advantage with our scenario-based learning philosophy and increased critical thinking skills,” she said.
Awards and leadership
Tina’s efforts have not gone unnoticed, as she has received numerous awards over the years recognizing her outstanding contributions to EMS and education; the most recent award was the 2025 Recognition from Governor Tony Evers for 35 years of extraordinary contributions to the citizens of Wisconsin.
Through her leadership, Blackhawk’s EMS program has flourished, with exceptional EMT and AEMT National Registry pass rates. Her work has ensured that generations of EMS professionals are well-equipped to serve their communities with skill, confidence, and compassion. Her favorite memory, she said, is “the first time a student came into my classroom and said that I had taught his parents EMT.”
Tina has often said, “We never know what will happen next—that’s why we do EMS.” And that is exactly why she has spent 36 years preparing others to face the unexpected, respond with courage and save lives.