Upper Cumberland Workforce Connections is helping develop Advanced EMS Apprenticeship programs across the area.
Jeremiah Miller is the Assistant Director of the Upper Cumberland Workforce Development Board. He said funding came from the state’s Rural Healthcare Initiative because several area counties needed to address their EMS. Miller said apprenticeships are one of the truest forms of workforce development.
“When an individual is placed in a hands on situation, it allows that person to apply the knowledge from the classroom,” Miller said. “But under the guidance of a trained professional in the field to help them develop those tactical skills that may not be able to be taught in the classroom setting.”
Miller said the has worked directly with EMS directors to create the apprenticeship programs. Miller said apprentices are trained as advanced EMS personnel or paramedics depending on community need.
“The apprentice is an employee of the county EMS department,” Miller said. “They’re in the process of training through a job experience and through the education from a local community college. These individuals will ultimately become the EMT professionals we see in our communities.”
Miller said apprenticeship programs are especially important for people in the medical field. Miller said apprenticeships help employers develop talent on the job.
“You would work with the executive director of the EMS to basically apply to be a part of that program,” Miller said. “They’re consistently training for these advanced EMS personnel and paramedics on a continuous basis.”
Miller said the local workforce board has helped 37 employers develop training programs. Miller said the new funding allowed the board to shift focus to the medical field.
