SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — Ozarks Technical Community College and CoxHealth are working together to offer anyone interested in becoming an emergency medical technician a chance to get free training and even get paid while on an apprenticeship.
The program is a response to the demand for certified paramedics. An OTC press release said students will receive free instruction and training, as they receive hourly pay as CoxHealth employees during the apprenticeship. Those who complete the program according to CoxHealth standards are guaranteed employment.
During training, students will be paid $13.25 per hour. Salaries increase to $16.67 per hour once the student obtains their EMT license.
In exchange for paid tuition, training, and licensing exams, students agree to work for CoxHealth for approximately 18 months.
Students accepted into the program will complete:
- Basic OTC Emergency Medical Technician Course
- 320 hours of on-the-job instruction/training with CoxHealth
- Certification and licensing exams
To be eligible, students must be a high school graduate, be at least 18 years old and pass a background check, according to OTC.
