EMS Week spotlight: Joshua Coaker
Posted on May 20, 2026 by Daniel Curtis
As part of EMS Week, the Pat Capps Covey College of Allied Health Professions is highlighting the faculty, students and alumni who help shape the future of emergency medical services.
Among them is Joshua Coaker, lead paramedic instructor in the Department of Emergency Medical Services, whose work reflects the college’s commitment to student-centered teaching, mentorship and compassionate care.
At the Pat Capps Covey College of Allied Health Professions’ 2026 Honors Ceremony, Coaker was recognized with the Excellence in Teaching Award. He was honored for his work in the USA Paramedic Program, including his strong student evaluations, innovative use of instructional technology and clear impact on student success. He was also recognized for helping expand educational access through dual enrollment and for sharing his expertise across the broader academic community.
For Coaker, one of the most rewarding parts of teaching is the time he gets to spend with each cohort as students move through three consecutive semesters together.
“I enjoy the one on one time that I get to spend with each cohort,” Coaker said. “Each group will spend 3 consecutive semesters together, and I am their primary instructor during that time. I get to see them form lifelong bonds and grow as a team.”
He said one of the most meaningful moments in teaching comes when former students return to share stories about their achievements and the difference they are making in the world.
“Seeing how proud they are of making a difference in the world is what it is all about,” Coaker said.
While technical skills are essential in EMS, Coaker said he hopes students leave South with something just as important.
“One of the most important lessons I want our students to learn while they are here is that the knowledge and technical skills are important, but none of that matters if you forget how to first be a good person,” he said. “So when they leave here and go out into the world, it is important to always be kind and bring calmness to chaos.”
Coaker said the Pat Capps Covey College of Allied Health Professions is a special place to learn and grow because of the way faculty and staff work together across disciplines with a shared commitment to patient-centered care.
“The faculty and staff that make up the college are not only the experts in their respective departments, they are also experts in interdisciplinary functions amongst the different allied health occupations,” Coaker said. “We all share a common goal, which is a patient-centered approach to deliver exceptional healthcare.”