The Demand for EMTs Remains High

By Deborah Jeanne Sergeant

If you are interested in the medical field and enjoy high adrenaline situations, working as an emergency medical technician might be for you.

Abby Harning, professor of emergency medical technology at SUNY Erie in Williamsville, felt initially drawn to EMT work as she wanted to enter the medical field.

“I heard you could do EMT work without a lot of education, so that’s what I decided to do,” she said.

Compared with that of a physician, it’s a much shorter academic career. EMT programs at community colleges or other schools last one semester (about 100-150 hours) and accept applicants as young as 17 (must be 18 upon completion). After successfully passing the exam, EMTs must complete 36 hours annually as a refresher and recertify every three years to maintain their credential.

In addition to the education, Harning said that candidates should be willing to work in inclement weather, possess patience and demonstrate an ability to cope with stress.

“Have some healthy hobbies to distract yourself when you’re away from work,” she said. “Have friendships away from emergency medical service. We’re great support to each