PLATTE CITY, Mo. — EMS leaders and aspiring leaders have a new opportunity to advance their education and professional development.
The Fitch EMS Foundation is now accepting applications for its 2026 scholarship cycle, with opportunities focused on leadership development, mentoring and degree assistance. Applications are open through March 15.
The scholarships are geared toward EMS and industry professionals looking to strengthen their leadership skills and broaden their impact within their organizations and communities.
Among the opportunities available in 2026:
- EMS Leadership Mentoring
- Leadership Education (including Ambulance Service Manager Program; Communication Center Manager Course and the Pinnacle EMS Leadership Forum)
- Degree Assistance for EMS leaders completing post-secondary education
- Jack Stout EMS Fellowship, endowed by FirstWatch
- James O. Page Legacy Scholarship
- National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians (NAEMT) membership
- National EMS ManagementAssociation (NEMSMA) membership
- American College of Paramedic Executives (ACPE) certification waiver
According to the Foundation, recipients will be selected by a scholarship review committee and announced this spring. Those awarded the Jack Stout EMS Fellowship and the James O. Page Legacy Scholarship will be recognized during the 2026 Pinnacle EMS Leadership Forum, scheduled for July 13–16 in San Diego.
“These awards recognize leaders who are actively strengthening the future of emergency medical services and emergency communications,” said Hannah Fitch, executive director of the Foundation. “By investing in education, mentorship, and professional growth, we and our partners are building the capacity of the systems our communities depend on. The Foundation is honored to support individuals who are advancing both their own leadership and the profession as a whole.”
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