The San Diego Workforce Partnership Wednesday granted multiple municipalities, nonprofits and community colleges a total of $4 million to fund the expansion of emergency medical services and firefighting training programs.
“We are creating the next generation of firefighters and paramedics in partnership with high schools, community colleges and emergency services providers,” said Rachel Bereza, president and CEO of the workforce partnership. “By investing in our partners and creating more accessible entry options into EMS and fire service, we’re strengthening San Diego’s resilience while also opening doors of opportunity for veterans, career switchers and communities historically underrepresented in these critical jobs.”
The funding is being split up among the Chula Vista Fire Department, city of Vista, San Diego County, Southwestern Community College, San Diego Miramar College, San Diego Regional Fire Foundation, San Diego Fire-Rescue Foundation, 1904 Cadets and the San Diego & Imperial Center of Excellence. It is intended to expand existing programs, as well as provide support for cadets and trainees and “address systemic barriers in the career pathway.”
These organizations were chosen “for their demonstrated ability to reach underserved populations, foster equity and prepare job seekers for high- demand careers in emergency response,” according to a statement from the SDWP.
The grants being distributed come from the California Workforce Development Board and will fund the enrollment of 250 people from historically underserved populations in EMS and fire training programs.
Additionally, the funding is intended to provide services for 200 of those to help complete training and place at least 150 of them in EMS and fire service roles.