BOSTON — Thirty-two new EMTs and seven promoted members are joining the ranks of Boston EMS, marking a major boost to the city’s 911 ambulance and dispatch operations as call volumes reach record highs.
Mayor Michelle Wu joined Boston EMS and the Boston Public Health Commission at Faneuil Hall on Oct. 10 to mark the graduation.
All graduates are state-certified and have completed the Boston EMS Recruit Academy, an intensive program that prepares them for field operations, the department stated. The additions will bolster the city’s 911 ambulance and dispatch services amid rising call volumes.
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“Today, we proudly welcome a new generation of EMTs into the Boston EMS family,” EMS Chief James Hooley said. “You’ve taken on a role that demands strength, skill, and deep compassion. Over the course of your training, you’ve responded to hundreds of real emergencies — gaining experience, earning trust, and proving yourselves time and again. With EMS call volume reaching record highs, your service is more vital than ever. You are stepping into this career at a critical time — and we need you. Boston needs you. Your badges may be new, but your commitment is already clear. We are proud of everything you’ve accomplished and honored to have you join our ranks.”
The full-time, paid academy blends classroom and field training for high-risk scenarios such as mass casualty incidents, active shooter, hazmat and human trafficking responses. During training, recruits handled over 4,700 911 calls, treating cardiac arrests, childbirths, major trauma and behavioral health crises.
Boston EMS is widening career access with a multi-pronged recruitment push. Twelve graduates came through the relaunched Cadet Program, which fully funds EMT training and creates pathways into EMS.
The department also promoted two to superintendent and five to deputy superintendent, adding nearly 175 years of combined service to its leadership ranks.
