VC's Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Program shaped Tyler's purpose
Tyler Havel grew up in Gonzales, Texas, with a strong work ethic and a desire to make a difference. After nearly a decade working for the Texas Department of Transportation, he realized something was missing. He wanted a career where he could help others the way others had once helped him.
As a child, Havel had two life-changing experiences that shaped his path. At age four, he nearly drowned in a hot tub and had to be airlifted for emergency care. Then again at 13, he was flown to the hospital after suffering a severe seizure. Those early brushes with danger introduced him to the compassion and skill of emergency medical professionals—and left a lasting impression.
“I wanted to be a part of that,” said Havel. “The people who were there for me, who made a difference—that stuck with me.”
Havel enrolled in Victoria College’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Program, where he found both purpose and community. After graduating in 2022 and gaining field experience, he returned to VC—not as a student, but as an instructor.
“I wanted to come back and teach because it keeps me fresh on my skills,” said Havel. “It keeps me up to date on new technology, and I get to share that knowledge while improving myself. I’m not going to be young forever. One day, I’ll be the one calling 911. Being able to help shape the future of EMS by training new professionals—that’s important to me.”
Victoria College’s EMS Program prepares students to become emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and paramedics, offering hands-on training, real-world experience and simulation-based learning. Whether students are new to the field or advancing their credentials, VC’s EMS Program provides the tools and support they need to succeed.
Havel encourages anyone considering the field to take advantage of ride-along opportunities with local EMS agencies, a step that helped him confirm his calling.
“A lot of agencies around here do civilian ride-alongs,” he said. “That was a turning point for me. When I got out there and saw what the job was really like, I knew this was something I truly wanted to do.”
Now, as an instructor, Havel is helping others find that same clarity—and preparing them to be the calm in someone else’s crisis.
Victoria College invites the community to submit success stories in honor of VC’s 100th anniversary. To submit a story, visit VictoriaCollege.edu/ShareYourStory.