32 New EMTs Graduate in a Dual Commencement Ceremony

Source: Hall EMT Academy

BAKERSFIELD, CA—Over 200 family members, Hall Ambulance leadership, and staff filled the ballroom at the DoubleTree Hotel Bakersfield July 1 for the Dual Graduation of Classes 48 & 49 of the Hall EMT Academy celebrating thirty-two (32) new emergency medical technicians (EMTs). 

Established in 2001, the Hall EMT Academy is an accelerated on-the-job training program designed to prepare individuals for a career as EMTs with Hall Ambulance. Training is conducted at the Harvey L. Hall EMS Academy in Bakersfield over a period of ten weeks. It includes weekly lectures, hands-on skills assessments, quizzes, and tests to prepare recruits for the National Registry of EMTs Examination. After completing their initial training, recruits participate in five weeks of field training with a field training officer to ensure they are ready to respond to medical aid calls in Hall Ambulance's 9-1-1 response areas. 

Class speakers, EMT Angel Loaiza (Class 48) and EMT Philip Garcia (Class 39), did an excellent job highlighting their own and their classmates' experiences of completing the academy. 

Special awards were presented to outstanding recruits based on the highest final exam score, highest overall GPA, and best uniform appearance. The recipients were as follows: 

Class 48 Awards 

Highest Final Exam Score: 100% Jacob Riehle and 100% Kimberly Soto 

Highest Overall GPA: 99% Kimberley Soto 

Best Uniform: Shayla Stucklen 

Class 49 Awards 

Best Uniform: Philip Garcia 

Highest Final Exam Score: 97% Philip Garcia and 97% Makenzie Sisney 

Highest Overall GPA: 95% Makenzie Sisney 

To acknowledge their achievement, each graduate received State of California Legislative Certificates of Recognition from Senator Shannon Grove, Senator Melissa Hurtado, Assemblyman Stan Ellis, and Dr. Jasmeet Bains. 

The starting wage for a new EMT is $46,025.60 per year, along with a comprehensive health, wellness, and benefits plan. 

More information on the Hall EMT Academy is available at hallamb.com/emtacademy.