Mid-State Technical College. MWC file photo
WISCONSIN RAPIDS, Wis. (WAOW-WSAU) — Mid-State Technical College is launching a new Fire Medic associate degree program that combines fire service and paramedic training.
The two-year, 65-credit associate in applied science degree allows students to develop the technical, medical, and decision-making skills needed to respond when their communities need them most.
“Firefighter/paramedics play an incredibly important role in the safety and well-being of our communities,” Anderson said.
Rick Anderson, dean of the Adams Campus and School of Public Safety at Mid-State, said the program creates a direct pathway for students who want to serve while helping regional fire and EMS agencies build the highly skilled workforce they need.
The program comes as communities across Wisconsin continue to face challenges recruiting and retaining emergency medical professionals. A statewide workforce report identified an estimated 384 annual openings for EMTs and paramedics in Wisconsin and noted particular recruitment and retention challenges for rural EMS agencies.
The report also found that 41% of Wisconsin EMS agencies reported not having adequate staffing to respond to an ambulance request.
Earlier this year, the Wisconsin Rapids Fire Department announced plans to add three firefighter/paramedic positions through its regional EMS cooperative to improve coverage and help manage call demand. The department has 39 full-time firefighter/paramedics and, together with its regional partners, responds to approximately 4,900 fire and EMS incidents annually.
Students in Mid-State’s Fire Medic program will gain hands-on experience with modern fire service and emergency medical equipment while learning from instructors with current industry experience. Training includes advanced patient care, incident response, fire service operations, communication, and the ability to make confident decisions in high-pressure situations.
“By preparing professionals who understand both the fire and medical sides of emergency response, we are helping develop versatile responders who can make an immediate impact in departments throughout our region,” Anderson said.
The Fire Medic program is offered through Mid-State’s Wisconsin Rapids Campus, with in-person and hybrid learning options. Students may begin general education coursework at any time, with program start opportunities available in fall and spring.
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