Hutchinson CC Partners with Barton to Expand Respiratory Care Training
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Community College has signed a partnership agreement with Barton Community College to expand access to respiratory care education in central Kansas, addressing a growing workforce shortage in the healthcare field.
The two institutions signed a Memorandum of Understanding establishing a pathway for Barton students to complete general education requirements at their home campus before transitioning into Hutchinson CC's accredited Respiratory Care Program.
The partnership was developed in response to increased demand for respiratory care professionals in Barton's service area, which includes nine regional hospitals.
"This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to meeting the healthcare workforce needs of our communities," said Dr. Tricia Paramore, president of Hutchinson Community College. "By working together, we are creating clearer pathways for students and helping ensure that Kansas hospitals have access to the skilled respiratory therapists they urgently need."
Dr. Marcus Garstecki, president of Barton Community College, said the partnership addresses a significant regional need. The collaboration allows Barton to provide students with access to high-quality respiratory care training while supporting healthcare systems throughout the area.
The agreement aligns with both institutions' missions to provide affordable, accessible and relevant education while serving Kansas communities.
Community Events
Separately, Hutchinson CC hosted its annual Blue Dragon Fanfest Thursday evening at Gowans Stadium. The free public event allowed community members to meet fall sports teams, including football, volleyball and soccer squads, and interact with coaches and student-athletes.
The Blue Dragons compete in the National Junior College Athletic Association and use the mascot selected by student vote in 1930.
Hutchinson Community College, located at 1300 N. Plum St., serves approximately 4,900 students and offers associate degrees in multiple fields. The institution operates additional campuses in McPherson and Newton, along with specialized facilities for cosmetology, barbering and allied health programs.
The respiratory care program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care and admits students annually each August. Applications are accepted from December through May for the following academic year.