Monroe County announces a fully funded program to train new EMTs and paramedics and remove barriers to joining the emergency services workforce

Monroe County, New York – Monroe County is making a bold move to strengthen its emergency response system—and it starts with training the next wave of lifesavers. With the launch of a fully funded EMT and paramedic training program, the county is removing financial and logistical roadblocks that have long kept many from pursuing careers in emergency medical services (EMS).

The initiative is backed by $4.2 million in federal funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). With this support, Monroe County aims to ease the growing pressure on its EMS infrastructure and ensure that residents receive fast, skilled care during emergencies.

“By investing in EMS training, we’re not just filling jobs—we’re protecting our neighborhoods and building a more resilient community,” said county officials.

Read also: Two Gouverneur men face charges after a violent fight escalates across multiple locations

Offered in partnership with Monroe Community College (MCC), the program covers nearly every cost that aspiring EMTs and paramedics typically face. Tuition, textbooks, supplies, certification fees—it’s all included. But the support doesn’t stop there. Participants also benefit from wraparound services, such as paid training hours, academic help, transportation assistance, and even child care, ensuring students can stay focused on completing the program without outside distractions.

This is more than a classroom effort. It’s a hands-on, community-centered investment in public health.

“Emergency responders are the first to arrive when someone is in trouble, and they need to be ready,” a program spokesperson noted. “With this training initiative, we’re ensuring our future EMTs and paramedics get the best start possible—without the stress of figuring out how to afford it.”

Monroe County is currently recruiting for the program, which makes now an ideal time for those interested in public service, healthcare, or fast-paced, high-impact careers to take the first step.
MCC will begin its EMT and paramedic courses with the Fall 2025 semester. Applications for the next EMT student cohort are already open. Interested individuals can learn more and apply by visiting the Public Safety Training Facility at Monroe Community College’s official website.

Meanwhile, training opportunities extend beyond MCC. American Medical Response (AMR) is also offering an EMT class that is currently underway, with another round beginning on August 6, 2025. Applications for that class open on May 19 and close June 16. Those interested in joining AMR’s training should reach out to Captain Casey Link at [email protected] for details.

Read also: Travis Lisena is honored by Supervisor Leenhouts for his outstanding dedication to maintaining Penfield Little League fields year after year

Monroe Ambulance, another key EMS provider in the area, will kick off its next class on May 27, 2025. Applications are already open, and candidates can apply through the recruiting link provided by Monroe Ambulance.

While the long-term goal is to increase the number of licensed EMS professionals in the county, the short-term effect is already clear: more people are getting the chance to pursue a meaningful, respected career—without shouldering the usual cost.

And with that, Monroe County is setting an example for how to build stronger, safer communities from the ground up.

“Emergency Medical Technicians and paramedics are critical to the safety and well-being of our residents,” said a Monroe County official. “This program helps ensure that every corner of our community has access to the emergency care they deserve—when they need it most.”

For many, this program could be the turning point—a fully supported path into a profession where every day could mean saving a life.