January 16, 2025

Clark County Launches EMT Academy to Combat Local Shortage

For Immediate Release

Jan. 13, 2024

Media Contact

Tyler Holder, North Star

E: tyler@northstarideas.com

C: (321) 289-1192

 

Clark County Launches EMT Academy to Combat Local Shortage

 

CLARK COUNTY, Nev. (Jan. 13, 2025) – The Clark County Office of Community and Economic Development (Clark County OCED) today launched and opened registration for an Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT) Academy to address the local shortage of EMTs.

The EMT Academy is designed for Clark County residents seeking a career path in emergency management services, who play a critical role in caring for and assessing the condition of patients at an emergency scene. The nine-week program will provide hands-on training and education that equips participants with the skills and knowledge to work as basic EMTs, a role in high demand locally and statewide. A May 2023 study revealed that Nevada had the fewest ambulance stations per 1,000 square miles of any state.

Clark County’s initial EMT Academy will enroll up to 34 students and is available to all Clark County residents over 18 years old with a high school diploma or equivalent GED and no felony convictions. No industry experience is required and there is no cost to participants. The Academy’s application deadline is Feb. 7, 2025.

“Saving lives in emergencies requires rapid response times, which depend heavily on having enough EMTs available,” said Jennifer Wyatt, deputy fire chief of Clark County. “For those seeking a rewarding career dedicated to helping others and saving lives, the EMT Academy offers an incredible opportunity.”

Accepted applicants will first enroll in a two-week, pre-academy bootcamp from March 3-14. This bootcamp will familiarize participants with the EMT profession before committing to it, offering insights into daily responsibilities, common field scenarios, and the types of trauma experienced in the field. Participants will also gain firsthand experience through ride-alongs with local ambulance companies.

The EMT Academy officially starts on April 7 with training sessions held four days a week. Graduates will complete the program in early June, fully prepared to step into basic EMT roles.

“The EMT Academy addresses a vital community need while opening the door to a meaningful career opportunity for everyone, including women,” said Shani Coleman, director of the Clark County OCED. “Once considered a male-dominated field, emergency medical services are now seeing a growing number of women joining its ranks. This accelerated program is designed to prepare you for the workforce quickly and efficiently.”

The program is funded by $2.4 million in federal coronavirus relief money, which the Clark County Commission approved in late 2023. Clark County has partnered with Workforce Connections to implement the program.

“I am proud of this initiative and the work Clark County has done to make it happen,” said Clark County Commissioner Marilyn Kirkpatrick. “This will help strengthen the pipeline of first responders to help meet the needs of our growing community, especially in rural areas. As the largest fire department in the region, there is a real need for EMTs and paramedics as most of the emergency calls in Clark County are medical.”

Individuals can learn more about the EMT Academy and apply on the Clark County website.

 

About the Clark County Office of Community and Economic Development

The Office of Community and Economic Development (OCED) is the primary resource for new, established, and prospective businesses interested in investing, expanding, or relocating to Clark County, Nevada. With a dedicated team of experts, OCED provides businesses and developers with the answers, tools, and resources needed to start a new project or expand an existing business. Home to 2.3 million residents, Clark County covers roughly 8,000 square miles and is the 11th-largest county in the nation. Committed to enhancing and supporting the economic viability of the unincorporated areas of Clark County and advancing inclusive, sustainable growth, OCED is building awareness of the economic opportunities “bright beyond the lights” of Las Vegas.

 

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