EMTS Academy

Texas is one of the few states growing its EMS workforce while others shrink and the reasons are worth studying.

On the latest episode of the EMTS Academy podcast, Texas EMS Director Joe Schmider joins Matt Nealand to discuss the state’s $10 million whole blood initiative and the goal of reaching every county, how Senate Bill 8 funding helped certify more than 13,000 new providers, and the retention challenge that comes next. As Joe puts it, recruitment means nothing if “we just chase them all away.”

The conversation also covers the shift from “emergency” to pre-hospital healthcare, the expanding role of community paramedicine, and how AI stands to reshape documentation and clinical decision support. Essential listening for EMS leaders, educators, and anyone invested in the future of the profession.

• Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/a3cX9c2JBcQ
• Listen on your podcast app: https://pod.link/1810050200
• EMTS Academy website: https://emtsacademy.com
• Texas DSHS Office of EMS/Trauma: https://www.dshs.texas.gov/emstraumasystems

Should you get your paramedic certification BEFORE you’re hired at a fire department? 🚒
In our newest episode, Battalion Chief Chris Norred of New Braunfels Fire Department answers that question — and shares something a lot of people miss: the firefighters who put in real time on the ambulance often become the best firefighters AND the best leaders.
With 18 years in the fire service, Chief Norred breaks down why departments are hungry for paramedics, how the civil service hiring process really works, the small mistakes that cost good candidates a job (yes — including old social media posts), and why leadership starts on the ambulance.
If you’re thinking about a career in fire-based EMS — or you know someone who is — this one’s worth a watch. 👇
🎥 Watch the full episode: https://youtu.be/-CkzhDyKAh8

🎧 Listen here: https://pod.link/1810050200

🎓 Start your EMS career: emtsacademy.com

🚁 Dive into the world of flight paramedics with Dusty Ross as he navigates the skies, tackling heart and lung emergencies across the U.S. Learn about the critical role of ECMO and the importance of mental health in EMS.

https://na2.hubs.ly/H044lNV0

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Behind the bagpipes and kilts lies a deeply emotional and fulfilling experience. 🚒 Tune in to hear John Concha’s story on balancing passion and duty in the Honor Guard with the El Paso Fire Department.

https://na2.hubs.ly/H044mzZ0