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Ulster County is partnering with the State University of New York (SUNY) Cobleskill to bring advanced emergency medical technician (EMT) and paramedic training directly to local residents. The new program is scheduled to start in August, with the first cohort of 15 students expected to graduate in August 2027.
The Ulster County Legislature approved the partnership on Wednesday, allowing the county to invest $326,000 in the program for 2026, with an additional $7,070 reserved for any unfilled seats, according to Mid Hudson News and Daily Freeman. The collaboration will allow EMTs to pursue paramedic certification without having to leave Ulster County, making advanced training more accessible.
In a statement, Jen Metzger, Ulster County Executive, said, "By bringing high‑quality paramedic training close to home, we are opening doors for our EMTs to advance their careers while strengthening the emergency response system our residents rely on." Metzger called the partnership "a major investment in the future of emergency medical services in Ulster County," as reported by SUNY Cobleskill Media Hub.
Everett Erichsen, Ulster County Emergency Services commissioner, added, "Bringing paramedic education to Ulster County is a major step forward for our EMS system. This creates new opportunities for our EMTs, strengthens our local workforce, and helps ensure our communities receive the highest level of emergency medical care" (NEWS10 ABC).
The SUNY Cobleskill Paramedic Education Program, accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs, has operated since 1996 and is recognized for setting a high standard statewide. The training location for Ulster County will be announced soon.
This initiative builds on earlier efforts: in 2025, Ulster County’s Division of Emergency Medical Services received approval to offer basic EMT courses, which has already increased the number of EMTs in the area. The new program aims to address ongoing needs for a resilient and skilled emergency medical workforce.
For more information on the SUNY Cobleskill Paramedic Education Program, visit SUNY Cobleskill.