For Jodie McLean, teaching at the Allegan Tech Center isn’t just a job—it’s a calling rooted in her passion for helping others. With nearly a decade of experience in the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) field, McLean has spent the last seven years sharing her knowledge and expertise, shaping the future of EMS professionals in Allegan County.
McLean began her journey at Kalamazoo Valley Community College, earning her Basic EMT certification before completing her paramedic training in 2013. In 2022, she became a certified Instructor Coordinator, a vital step toward teaching EMS in Michigan. Her transition to education came naturally, driven by a desire to combine her love for EMS with a career that fit her family’s needs.
“I love EMS, but the hours weren’t great for my family life. When I saw the Tech Center offering a brand-new EMS course, I thought, ‘Wow—now I can teach my passion!’” McLean shared.
That passion shines through in her classroom. Whether guiding students through complex medical concepts or sharing stories from her time in the field, McLean brings the realities of EMS work to life. Her favorite moments? When her students experience “aha” breakthroughs. “I love seeing students have those moments when what I’ve been teaching finally clicks,” she said.
Teaching, however, comes with challenges. For McLean, engaging students who may hesitate to participate can be tricky, but she tackles this with persistence and creativity. “I usually reword my questions or guide them back to what they already know and see if they catch on,” she explained.
McLean’s professional experience deeply influences her teaching style. “I want my students to understand that it takes special people to do this job,” she said. “Even if they don’t pursue a career in EMS, they’ll still recognize serious illnesses and know how to respond.”
Her impact extends far beyond the classroom. Graduates of the Tech Center’s EMS program are eligible to take the National Registry exam, and upon passing, they can apply for a state license to work for ambulance services. This pipeline of skilled EMS workers benefits the entire community, reinforcing the importance of vocational training.
“The more skilled trades we have in our communities, the more we can stay local and use those resources,” McLean noted, emphasizing the broader economic and social benefits of skilled trades education.
To those considering a career in EMS, McLean offers candid advice: “It’s a lot of work, and you’ll need to be dedicated to learning about the human body, disease processes, and treatments.”
As a teacher, McLean hopes her legacy will be one of empowerment. “I want to create a lasting impact on my students, help them achieve their goals, and inspire them to believe in themselves. I want them to know I’ll always be here to help,” she said.
And if you’re looking for inspiration outside the classroom, McLean has a fun fact to share: she’s an adventurer at heart, having gone bungee jumping and skydiving.
Through her work at the Tech Center, McLean proves that a passion for helping others can spark transformation—not just in emergencies, but in the lives of her students and her community.