Newest class of EMS graduates largest, most diverse in Wake County
Wake County's largest-ever class of paramedics graduated Monday.
The new recruits are badly needed as the department faces challenges related to staffing shortages, even forcing them to reserve ambulances for high priority calls at times.
Wake County Emergency Medical Services received more than 123,000 calls for help last year. With a higher demand for services and increased competition for employees, officials said it can be difficult to recruit and retain people.
Recently, however, dozens of new hires have hit the streets providing care. On Monday night, 52 recruits graduated from the county’s 38th EMS academy.
According to Wake County, the graduates completed 999 patient simulations and learned 75 skills, spending 602 combined hours in the classroom.
This is the largest graduating class and a huge milestone. Wake County has tried multiple strategies to fill vacancies by increasing pay and creating a training program for high school students to join the workforce.
“We've seen an increase in call volume," said Dr. Jose Cabanas, chief medical officer of Wake County. "We have seen staffing challenges where we haven’t been able to meet the demand.”
Wake EMS workers are the highest paid paramedics in the state. In April, paramedics' earnings increased from a minimum of $24.91 an hour to $28.13, and shift commanders went from a minimum of $34.82 an hour to $37.43.
"Pay incentive is always a big deal when anyone goes for any job," said paramedic Mitchell Arildsen.
And so is the work environment.
“We look for protocols, how the administration treats us, how are we taught to work here," said Arildsen. "When all those boxes are checked you can look at that.”
After the hugs, tears, and pictures. This class is ready to get to work.
