AWC program aims to fill void in local paramedic shortage
YUMA, Ariz. (KECY, KYMA) - The nationwide paramedic shortage is being seen locally in Yuma County.
One training program at Arizona Western College will increase the number of paramedics in the area.
There are currently 16 people in the 11-month Paramedic Program at AWC, set to graduate in April of 2023.
The class is made up of a majority of firefighters, as well as border patrol agents, contracted EMT's and veterans.
AWC paramedic instructors say the Yuma area is facing a shortage due to several of them retiring, as well as it being high-stress job with a time consuming training program to fill open positions.
