CHULA VISTA — Young adults with experience in the juvenile justice or foster care systems now have a new opportunity to begin a career in emergency medical services, thanks to a county-led initiative designed to increase access to healthcare careers.
San Diego County Fire and Emergency Medical Services is recruiting applicants ages 18 to 26 for the San Diego EMS Corps, a free, five-month hands-on training program that prepares participants to become certified Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs).
Nearly 40 prospective applicants attended a recent in-person outreach event hosted by the County Fire Department at the South Region offices of the Health and Human Services Agency in Chula Vista. Organized in partnership with Southwestern College and American Medical Response (AMR), the event introduced attendees to working EMTs and paramedics, and offered live demonstrations of life-saving skills, including hands-only CPR and bleeding control techniques.
“This program is more extensive than a typical three-month EMT course and includes additional hands-on training,” said Tareq Haidari, EMT program coordinator. “It’s specifically designed for youth impacted by foster care or juvenile justice systems who are seeking a direct path into emergency medical careers.”
The first training cohort begins July 7. Although the deadline for that session has passed, applications remain open for two future cohorts starting in January and June 2026. Each cohort will accept 20 participants.
Students will enroll at Southwestern College and receive a $1,500 monthly stipend throughout the program. The curriculum combines classroom instruction, practical medical training, and regular ride-alongs with local ambulance providers.
Nicholas Bye-Carnes, EMS Corps Program Manager, emphasized that the training emphasizes active learning. “We focus on hands-on experiences instead of lectures so students retain what they learn and build real-world confidence.”
Support for participants goes beyond graduation. Through local nonprofit SBCS, students will receive job placement assistance, professional mentorship, career guidance, and help purchasing essential equipment such as uniforms and medical gear.
The County is actively seeking applicants from diverse backgrounds who are motivated to serve their communities through emergency healthcare.
To learn more or apply for the 2026 cohorts, visit: www.sandiegoemscorps.org.