Cadets also were offered medical, dental, vision and 401(k) benefits. With the support of the Conrad Prebys Foundation and other private donors, Miramar College is covering the cadets’ national EMT exam and credentialing fees, as well.
Women are under-represented in the field of emergency medical services, so AMR and Miramar College accepted only female applicants for the program, making it the first all-female EMT academy in the region. Nationally, women make up only about one-third of all EMTs.
“The program was a huge accomplishment for me,” said 20-year-old graduate Camryn Leon. “I never even thought this opportunity would be available to someone like me. They made this entire program an amazing experience. I got to become close to these amazing ladies, and I am excited to make a difference.”
During the 16-week academy, which began in September at Miramar College, the six cadets learned a wide variety of EMT skills, including driving an ambulance, delivering a baby, performing CPR, using an Automated External Defibrillator, and administering an EpiPen to someone experiencing a life-threatening allergic reaction.
“We are extremely proud of this special group of women who have stepped forward to serve their community,” said Eric Nixon, community relations coordinator at AMR San Diego. “This academy will put more women on a rewarding career path while bolstering the ranks of female EMTs and paramedics in the San Diego region.”
Upon completing the academy and passing an exam administered by the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians, the graduated cadets will be hired by AMR, the largest ambulance transport company in the nation.
“We are truly grateful for the opportunity to partner with AMR, as this collaboration was essential to our students’ success,” said Jacqueline Hester, dean of the School of Public Safety at Miramar College. “The financial support provided was not just a number; it was a vital lifeline for our students who have completed our EMT program, especially those who faced financial challenges. This assistance allowed them to fully engage in their journey, offering invaluable educational and learning opportunities. Together, we are dedicated to closing the equity gap for women pursuing careers in emergency medical services.”
The graduation ceremony took place in Kearny Mesa at AMR’s regional headquarters.
While this was the first all-female Earn While You Learn academy in the region, two other academies have been held at Miramar College within the past year and a half and included both women and men.