County Executive Adam Bello and Monroe Community College celebrate the successful course completion of nearly 100 future EMS professionals across Monroe County

Monroe County, New York – Monroe County took a visible step toward strengthening its emergency response system this week as nearly 100 students were recognized for completing Emergency Medical Technician courses at Monroe Community College. The milestone was marked during a ceremony attended by county leaders, college officials, and emergency medical service providers, all of whom emphasized the growing importance of a well-trained EMS workforce.

County Executive Adam Bello joined Monroe Community College leadership and regional EMS partners to celebrate the graduates, calling their achievement a reflection of both personal commitment and community investment. The completion of the EMT courses positions these students at the front line of public safety, at a time when communities across New York State continue to face shortages of trained emergency medical personnel.

To underscore the significance of the moment, Bello formally proclaimed Tuesday, December 16, 2025, as EMS Appreciation Day in Monroe County. The designation was intended to honor not only the graduating students, but also the broader EMS community whose work often takes place out of public view, yet plays a critical role in daily life.

“Today’s graduates represent the very best of Monroe County—people who step forward when others are in need,” said County Executive Adam Bello. “By investing in accessible, high-quality EMS training, we are not only building a stronger workforce, we are strengthening the safety and resilience of every neighborhood in our community.”

The graduating class reflects a broad cross-section of Monroe County residents, many of whom were able to pursue EMS training thanks to targeted financial support. Nearly one-quarter of the students received assistance through $4.2 million in funding from the American Rescue Plan Act. The funding initiative was designed to remove common barriers that often prevent interested candidates from entering emergency medical careers.

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Led by Pittsford Volunteer Ambulance, the program was developed in partnership with Monroe Community College, American Medical Response, and Monroe Ambulance. Together, these organizations focused on creating a pathway into EMS work that addressed both the cost of training and the practical challenges students face while completing demanding coursework.

The ARPA funding covered far more than tuition alone. Students received support for books, medical supplies, and certification fees, along with wraparound services such as paid training time, transportation assistance, child care, and academic support. Program leaders say this approach was essential to attracting and retaining students who might otherwise be unable to commit to EMT training.

Recruitment efforts extended across Monroe County, with a deliberate focus on reaching diverse and historically underrepresented communities. By widening access to EMS education, organizers aimed to build a workforce that better reflects the population it serves, while also expanding the pool of qualified emergency responders available to local agencies.

Congressman Joe Morelle praised the graduates and highlighted the long-term value of investing in workforce development programs tied directly to community needs. “I’m proud to congratulate these graduates and thank them for choosing a profession of service,” said Congressman Joe Morelle. “This is a career that requires skill, heart, and selflessness. Your work will make a real difference in the lives of people across the region. Investments in programs like this help ensure our community has the people and expertise we need to stay safe, healthy, and prepared.”

With their coursework complete, the students’ next challenge will be the New York State Certification Exam. Passing the exam will qualify them to join EMS agencies throughout the region, where demand for trained personnel remains high. Local leaders say the addition of nearly 100 new EMTs could have a meaningful impact on response times and service availability across Monroe County.

Jonathan Smith, Chief of Pittsford Volunteer Ambulance, said the program demonstrates how collaboration and targeted investment can address long-standing challenges in emergency medical services. “As communities across New York State work to strengthen ambulance service availability, our community is leading with innovation and commitment. By investing in our neighbors, we are building a sustainable, community-driven solution. The students we honor today exemplify the success of this approach and the meaningful impact of our investment. Our program is delivering real results—demonstrating that EMS is a rewarding profession people are eager to join, and a powerful pathway to making a difference in every community.”

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Monroe Community College officials noted that the EMT program aligns with the college’s broader mission to provide practical, career-focused education that meets regional workforce needs. The success of the current cohort has already set the stage for future classes, with additional training opportunities planned for the coming year.

MCC is scheduled to launch its next round of EMT and Paramedic courses during the 2026 semester. Applications for the Spring 2026 EMT program are currently open, with a deadline of January 4. College and county leaders are encouraging interested residents to apply, particularly those who feel called to public service and emergency response.

As the ceremony concluded, attention shifted from celebration to anticipation. For the graduates, the path ahead includes certification, placement, and the start of careers defined by urgency, responsibility, and service. For Monroe County, the event marked progress toward a more resilient emergency response system—built one trained professional at a time.