Mercy Flights was awarded over $3 million dollars through two Future Ready Oregon Workforce Ready Grants in 2023 to launch the Southern Oregon EMS Apprenticeship Program (SOEMSAP). Funds were granted to develop and diversify the pool of Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) and Paramedics professionals in our region to address the forecasted healthcare workforce crisis.

During the initial discussion and implementation phase of the SOEMSAP, Mercy Flights worked closely with local EMS agencies and higher education organizations who were interested in joining the project. Applegate Valley Fire District was one of the first to enlist with Mercy Flights, recognizing the impact the program has on the healthcare needs of our region and value it brings to their perspective district and residents.

During the first round of applications, Applegate Valley Fire District hired four EMS apprentices seeking their EMS licenses. The applicants went through a traditional interview procedure, onboarding process, and were assigned a station shift that accommodated their school schedule. Tallie Jackson, Applegate Valley Fire District Administrative Chief stated, “Participating in the SOEMSAP allows apprentices the opportunity to work a shift schedule that puts their educational needs first, while offering a living wage in the career field they are working towards.” Apprentices participate in hands-on learning while on shift, making them more confident in their skills when their education is complete, and they are recruited into the workforce.

Josh Howell, Applegate Valley Fire District Shift Captain states, “In a combination fire and EMS district like ours, apprentices not only get real world EMS experience, but they also help bolster our staffing, which in provides better response times and care for our residents. It is a win-win.”

The second round of SOEMSAP applications are currently open through July 19, 2024, with final selections being made in late August 2024. Sheila Clough, Mercy Flights CEO states, “We are already seeing the positive impact this program is making in our community. As an apprentice graduate with their EMT or Paramedic license, they are entering into the workforce better prepared and adjusted for a career in healthcare”

The apprenticeship program focuses on four pillars, including:

• Inspire: We partner with high schools, community groups, and workforce partners to bring awareness to the many jobs available within the EMS field and encourage interested individuals to apply to become an EMS apprentice.
• Employ: Mercy Flights and other EMS employer partners will hire apprentices while they are pursuing their EMT or Paramedic education and provide them with a livable wage and on-the-job training in preparation for their degree completion.
• Educate: RCC will provide the apprentices with EMT and Paramedic education.
• Support: The EMS apprenticeship program staff will provide support to assist the apprentices achieve their education goals.

If you have any questions about the Apprenticeship Program or the application process, please contact Marcus Allen at marcusa@mercyflights.com or visit us at mercyflights.com.