CiTi BOCES Launches EMT Certification Program to Address Regional Shortage

In response to a growing regional need for first responders, the Center for Instruction, Technology & Innovation (CiTi BOCES) has launched a new Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification through its Public Safety & Justice program aimed at preparing qualified professionals.

“There is a large shortage of EMTs in the area,” said CiTi Public Safety & Justice Instructor Jon Chawgo. “So CiTi put together a group to help address that. When I was brought on board, I helped them form a consortium with Oswego County Emergency Management, the City of Oswego Fire Department, the Workforce Development Program and Menter Ambulance Incorporated. We were able to get a basic EMT program off the ground starting in December.”

The program is rigorous, preparing students for the demands of the job through realistic, hands-on scenarios. “We do training in the rain. We do training in the snow. We do training in other adverse locations and under other adverse conditions,” Chawgo noted.

Students see the program as a launchpad into meaningful careers. “I want to do something to help people, and I know that this program will help me leave with something.” said Miles Newton, a trainee in the program.

Participants also praised the hands-on nature of the training. “There’s so much I love about this program. It's the physical training and hands-on skills, those are the two things I really love.” said student Jayden Revette.

 “There's a lot more hands-on work. It's a lot of fun. It's not just the typical day-to-day sit in the class lecture. It's get up and go do stuff.” added Christina Legrow, who is enrolled in the program.

For more information about the Public Safety & Justice program, the EMT certification and other career and technical education programs offered at CiTi, please visit CiTiboces.org.