<p>COLUMBIA — Emergency medical services students from Columbia State Community College made Maury County proud at the fourth annual Battle of the Smokies competition, held March 4 in Sevierville, Tennessee. Competing against more than 25 teams from community colleges, county EMS agencies, and mine rescue crews across the state, Columbia State's students won first place in both the Student Advanced Life Support and Student Basic Life Support divisions — and added a second-place finish in Basic Life Support for good measure.</p><p>The competition placed teams inside a simulated crash scene — a side-by-side utility vehicle that struck a telephone pole — complete with smoke and other hazards testing situational awareness alongside medical skill. Teams were scored on patient assessment speed, quality of medical interventions, and transport readiness. EMS Program Director Gregory S. Johnson said the students performed at an incredible level of skill and showcased their ability to think critically in a very complex situation.</p><p>It's worth noting that these are the same students who, in January, celebrated a 100% first-attempt national registry pass rate for both their EMT and accelerated AEMT cohorts. Columbia State's EMS program is producing first responders who can handle real emergencies — and winning championships in the process. Learn more at <a href='http://www.ColumbiaState.edu/news/details/2026/04/battle-of-the-smokies-2026.html'>ColumbiaState.edu</a>.</p>