Student seeks to serve others, build medical knowledge in EMT program

A Capital Region BOCES EMT student uses scissors to modify a component of a respiratory system model during a classroom lesson. The activity uses balloons, straws and a plastic bottle to demonstrate how the lungs function. — Bianca uses scissors to modify a component of a respiratory system model during a classroom lesson. The activity uses balloons, straws and a plastic bottle to demonstrate how the lungs function.

One wants to be a neurologist, another a firefighter, but all the students in the new Capital Region BOCES Emergency Medical Technician program all have one thing in common – a desire to help others.

Launched earlier this month, the one-year Career and Technical Education (CTE) program is currently preparing nearly 30 high school students, including MCS student Bianca G., for careers in emergency medicine.

“I want to be a neurologist, so I figured this would be a good way to get a better understanding of the healthcare industry,” said Bianca, who attends the Schoharie campus program.

Two Capital Region BOCES EMT students work together at a classroom table while building a model lung from a plastic bottle, balloons and other materials during a lesson on the respiratory system. A CPR training mannequin is visible in the background. — Students assemble a model lung during an Integrated Science lesson on the respiratory system. Using everyday materials, students explored how the lungs, trachea, bronchi and diaphragm work together to support breathing.

The one-year Emergency Medical Technician program is a hands-on program that combines classroom instruction, laboratory skill practice and real-world scenarios to develop the knowledge and competencies required for pre-hospital emergency care. Students will assess, treat and transport patients experiencing medical and traumatic emergencies while emphasizing teamwork, safety, communication and professionalism.

The program also gives students the skills and certifications they need to pursue careers as firefighters.

Capital Region BOCES launched the new program in response to requests from business and community partners.

The number of active EMS responders in New York state declined by 17.5% between 2019 and 2022, according to the NYS EMS Workforce Report, 2024. The decline jeopardizes the ability of communities to respond to emergencies effectively, especially as the demand for emergency medical care continues to rise. Additionally, nationwide, nearly 60% of EMS agencies report insufficient staffing to meet 911 call demands, leading to delayed response times and increased risks for patients in critical need, as revealed by the What Paramedics Want in 2024 report.

CTE Director Jeff Palmer said Capital Region BOCES said the program addresses a critical state and national shortage of emergency medical technicians.

Instructor gives lecture to high school EMT students. “Capital Region BOCES is always ready to rise to the occasion to help with workforce development in industries that are suffering shortages of skilled workers.

There may be no more critical shortage of workers than in emergency medicine, where virtually every provider is in need of skilled workers,” Palmer said.