WVNCC receives grant to fund paramedic training for eligible EMTs
WHEELING -- As emergency medical services across West Virginia continue to face staffing shortages, West Virginia Northern Community College has secured nearly $295,000 in federal funding to help more emergency medical technicians become paramedics at little to no cost.
The college has been awarded $294,616 through the U.S. Department of Labor as part of the West Virginia EMS Workforce Education Grant, a statewide $1.8 million initiative funded through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act.
The grant will cover tuition for eligible students enrolled in WVNCC’s Paramedic Program, which normally costs $6,999, helping address workforce shortages by removing financial barriers for current EMTs seeking advanced certification.
“This grant represents a tremendous opportunity for current EMTs to advance their careers while helping meet the growing demand for highly trained emergency medical professionals throughout our region,” said Mike Freeman, EMS program director at WVNCC. “By removing financial barriers, we can help more individuals gain the skills needed to serve their communities and strengthen emergency healthcare services across West Virginia.”
To qualify, applicants must hold a current West Virginia, Ohio or National Registry EMT certification and meet Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act eligibility requirements.
Students must first complete WVNCC’s Paramedic Anatomy and Physiology course, which runs Aug. 3 through Sept. 13. The $249 course is a prerequisite for the program and is not covered by the grant.
The 14-month Paramedic Program begins Sept. 21 and will be offered two days a week with both daytime and evening classes available to accommodate working professionals.
The grant was awarded to the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission and will support EMS workforce development efforts statewide over the next three years. The initiative is intended to expand access to EMS education, certification and employment opportunities, particularly in rural and underserved communities.
Program officials said the funding is aimed primarily at unemployed and underemployed individuals, young adults, veterans, low-income residents, career changers and others facing barriers to employment.
In addition to tuition assistance, eligible participants may receive help paying for uniforms, licensing fees, career coaching, job readiness training and job placement assistance.
Those interested in learning more about the grant or enrolling in the program can contact Freeman at mfreeman@wvncc.edu or by calling 304-214-8980.