New York National Guard boosts EMS workforce with 150 newly certified EMTs

Albany, NY (WRGB) — In a significant boost to New York's emergency medical services workforce, approximately 150 New York National Guard service members have successfully obtained Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification through a new training initiative. Announced by the New York State Department of Health during Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Week, the program aims to support the National Guard's missions and create essential career pathways for service members transitioning to civilian roles.

State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald emphasized the dual impact of the program, stating,

The impact of this innovative training program goes beyond strengthening the EMS workforce. It is also about creating a bridge for these service members as they transition from military service to civilian roles, utilizing the skills and discipline they’ve gained to serve their communities. We are thankful to the National Guard and the many instructors and training partners whose dedication has made this mission possible.

The training, which ran from January to February 2025, involved intensive, full-time classes in an academy-style environment, covering essential EMT skills and clinical simulations. Conducted at multiple locations in the New York City metropolitan area, the program followed a successful model used during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Ryan Greenberg, Director of the Division of State EMS, highlighted the program's significance during EMS Week, saying,

EMS Week is a time to honor the dedication of EMS providers who serve our communities every day. This initiative not only equips service members with critical life-saving skills that may be used in their roles as National Guard members, but also provides them with valuable career pathways in the EMS field. With many EMS agencies actively hiring in New York City, these newly certified EMTs are well-positioned to join the workforce and address ongoing staffing demands when not on active duty with the National Guard.

To assist with career transitions, the Division of State EMS partnered with agencies such as the Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY) EMS and SeniorCare EMS to offer site visits, agency tours, and hands-on training experiences. Greenberg said,

We are immensely grateful to our partners for their commitment to this initiative. Their willingness to host our trainees, provide guidance, and share career opportunities has been instrumental in making this program a success.

Brigadier General Isabel Smith, Director of Joint Staff for the New York National Guard, noted the program's ongoing benefits, stating,

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the New York National Guard worked with the Department of Health to certify over 320 service members as EMTs. These Soldiers and Airmen worked in nursing homes and designated facilities during the pandemic. More recently, DOH certified 150 New York National Service Members as new EMTs. During the Department of Correction officer strikes in February of this year-- when over 8,000 National Guard service members were called to support that mission—many of these new EMTs assisted the Department of Correctional and Community Services in providing medical support in the facilities. This collaboration has already paid, and will continue to pay, big dividends for the state.