GREENVILLE – In response to the increasing demand for emergency medical services (EMS) professionals across the nation, Spirit EMS is proud to announce the launch of two paid EMT classes beginning mid-October. This initiative aims to equip aspiring EMTs with the skills necessary to succeed in a critical field that is currently facing a nationwide workforce shortage.
Spirit EMS will offer these courses at its satellite facility in Defiance and the established education center in Greenville, in partnership with Four County Career Center. This strategic expansion reflects Spirit EMS’ dedication to enhancing emergency medical services throughout Ohio and Indiana at a time when the U.S. is projected to face a shortage of over 60,000 paramedics and EMTs by 2025.
Brian K. Hathaway, President and CEO of Spirit EMS, stated, “The need for skilled EMS professionals has never been more urgent. We’re excited to provide an opportunity for individuals to enter this rewarding field and serve their communities. Our program not only prepares students for the challenges of emergency response but also offers tangible rewards for their dedication and achievement.”
This year’s program introduces an innovative financial incentive platform, rewarding students with an additional $1,000 for reaching key milestones during the six-week course. These milestones include maintaining perfect weekly attendance, passing the final examination, and successfully achieving EMT National Registry certification.
Classes will run from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, starting October 14 and concluding November 22, 2024. After completing the course, students will take the National Registry test and participate in a month of field training provided by Spirit EMS before serving alongside a partner on an ambulance.
“Our goal is to not only teach the essentials of emergency medical services but also to celebrate our students’ achievements at every step,” Hathaway emphasized. “Research shows a direct correlation between classroom attendance and long-term career success, which our new rewards program aims to highlight.”
Since August 2017, Spirit EMS has invested nearly $1 million in local education through its scholarship fund, which supports the development of new EMTs and paramedics. This investment addresses the acute shortage of qualified emergency personnel in western Ohio and eastern Indiana, areas experiencing high demand for Spirit’s services.
Hathaway added, “At Spirit EMS, we are committed to nurturing a workforce that is not only skilled but also passionate about making a positive impact in their communities. The demand for qualified EMS professionals is significant, and we are dedicated to providing comprehensive training and support to ensure our graduates are fully prepared to take on vital roles.”
Prospective students are encouraged to apply for the EMT scholarship program, which requires completion of the course, achievement of national certification, and a commitment to 2,080 hours of full-time service with Spirit EMS. Following certification, the company also provides a month of paid on-the-job training.
Applications for the program are currently being accepted through the Spirit EMS website (www.spiritmedicaltransport.com) or by contacting Ted Bruner at [email protected] or Anita Miller at [email protected]. The application deadline is September 25, 2024, at 5 p.m.
With facilities in Celina, Defiance, Greenville, Houston, and Van Wert, Ohio, as well as Liberty, Indiana, Spirit EMS is dedicated to strengthening community ties through educational opportunities and healthcare excellence. The scholarship and classes are available to individuals living near these service areas.