OCEAN COUNTY has launched a new Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Academy to address the statewide shortage of trained EMS professionals and ensure that local communities have the necessary personnel to respond quickly in times of crisis.

Housed at the Ocean County Fire and EMS Training Center, the EMS Academy welcomed its first class of 20 students in September. The program represents a proactive investment in the County's public safety network, supporting both volunteer and career emergency response agencies.

"We know that the landscape of emergency medical services is changing, both statewide and nationally," said Ocean County Commissioner Robert S. Arace, liaison to the Fire and EMS Training Center. "Here in Ocean County, we wanted to be intentional and proactive. The EMS Academy enables us to develop our own talent, support our volunteer and career teams, and ensure we're prepared for the future. It's about strengthening the system now, so our communities continue to receive the high-quality care they deserve."

Commissioner Arace added, "What makes this program so meaningful is that these students are training to help their neighbors. They're investing in their community, and we're investing in them. That's how you build a strong and resilient emergency response network, by working together and planning ahead."

The first Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Basic Course (Class #001) is a 224-hour program that includes classroom instruction, hands-on lab training, and clinical rotations. Students learn vital life-saving skills, including patient assessment, CPR, airway management, and wound care.

"The staff at the Ocean County Fire and EMS Training Center worked tirelessly for almost a year to navigate the processes to get the program up and running," said Brian Gabriel, Director of the Training Center. "The inaugural class continues to show dedication and progress as they build the foundation for their future in emergency medical services, and we are excited to see this program grow."

Developed through a shared services coordination grant and in partnership with EMS Consultant Services, the EMS Academy is expected to run two classes per year to meet local and regional workforce needs.

Joint Statement from the Ocean County Board of Commissioners:
"The Board is committed to ensuring that every community in Ocean County has access to skilled, well-trained emergency medical personnel. By investing in education and training today, we are preparing for tomorrow's challenges and strengthening the safety and well-being of residents across the County."