About EMS Corps
Over the past 10 years, the U.S. has faced a growing lack of emergency medical technicians (EMTs), now at a crisis level. EMS Corps, a national leader in addressing the shortage, partners with HASC to provide career pathways to young people facing barriers to employment. This innovative program is rooted in the belief that those who have overcome adversity are the best candidates to become the healers and lifesavers our communities need.
Addressing the EMT Shortage
Several critical factors have added to the shortage of EMTs and paramedics:
- Pandemic Impact: The COVID-19 pandemic caused training program closures and restricted access to clinical training, reducing the number of new paramedics entering the field.
- Aging Population: As the population ages, the demand for health care services, including emergency medical services (EMS), has dramatically increased.
- National Shortage: The EMT shortage is a nationwide issue, with EMS agencies across the country struggling to recruit and retain qualified staff.
- Recruitment and Retention Challenges: Due to factors such as low wages, high stress levels and mental health concerns, EMS agencies face significant challenges in attracting and retaining staff.
- Lack of Exposure: Many potential candidates don’t learn about EMT careers during their school years, preventing them from considering this vital field.
Potential Solutions to the Shortage
To combat these challenges, several strategies are being employed:
- Training and Recruitment: Community colleges like College of the Desert are expanding paramedic programs to help meet the demand for qualified professionals.
- Retention Strategies: To retain existing EMTs and paramedics, EMS agencies are exploring ways to improve working conditions and address burnout.
- Collaboration: Industry leaders recognize that addressing the staffing crisis requires collective action, with stakeholders working together to find sustainable solutions.
Opportunities for Career Growth
With the growing demand for EMTs, the EMS Corps program offers an excellent opportunity for individuals to:
- Gain job stability.
- Quickly enter the workforce.
- Advance into related health care roles such as phlebotomists, nursing assistants and registered nurses (RNs).
EMS Corps not only trains individuals for EMT positions but also offers a pathway for broader career advancement in the health care field, all while addressing critical community needs.
Upcoming Regional Cohorts
In 2025, EMS Corps has rolled out training cohorts in Ventura and Riverside counties, and will launch more cohorts in:
- San Bernardino/San Bernardino County: July 2025
- Compton/LA County: July 2025
- Southeast Los Angeles/LA County: Aug. 2025
Join us in building a well-trained candidate pool to help address the growing shortage of EMT workers and provide vital support to our communities. To learn more about this program and how your organization can get involved in filling these critical positions, please contact:
Jeff Metcalfe
[email protected]
(786) 877-5375
EMS Corps Website