Becoming an EMT or Paramedic
EMS Careers Are More Important Than Ever
As our communities continue to grow and the population ages, the need for skilled EMTs and Paramedics continues to rise. EMS professionals play a critical role in providing lifesaving care, supporting public health, and responding when every second matters.
Whether you’re starting your career journey or looking to advance in healthcare, EMS offers a rewarding path with opportunities to grow, lead, and make a difference every day.
High School Seniors — Start Your EMS Career Early
Check out Cetronia’s Operation: Pathway to Success program and earn money while learning and advancing your career in the healthcare industry.
Next EMT Class:
National Registry EMT Course – Fall 2026
Cetronia Ambulance Corps is officially recognized by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) as a school for Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) with VA Education Benefits offered through the GI Bill®.
Our EMT students train through simulated scenarios to gain vital real-world experience.
Become an EMT or Paramedic in Pennsylvania
Start your career in emergency medical services with the training, certification, and hands-on experience needed to serve your community.
Become a Certified EMT in Pennsylvania
To become a certified EMT in Pennsylvania, you must be at least 16 years old. EMT training is approximately 184 hours and includes classroom instruction, hands-on labs, and practical scenarios.
After completing the course, students must pass the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) examination to obtain certification. In Pennsylvania, EMT certification is valid for three years.
Cetronia Ambulance Corps is a PA Department of Health EMS Educational Institute for BLS Training Programs and holds accreditation number 023913211 under the jurisdiction of the Eastern PA EMS Council.
EMTs are trained to perform general patient assessments and provide emergency care including:
- Bleeding control
- Spinal immobilization
- Oxygen administration
- AED usage
- Complex immobilization procedures
- Airway management
- Assist in the administration of certain medications
- CPR
Helpful Links:
View Student Handbook
View PA Department of Health Functional Position Description
View EMT Program Outcomes
Now Hiring EMTs
Cetronia is currently offering a $2,000 sign-on bonus for EMTs.
Become a Paramedic in Pennsylvania
To become a paramedic in Pennsylvania, you must be at least 18 years old and have a valid EMT certification and CPR certification.
Paramedic training typically takes 14 months to 2 years, depending on whether the student chooses a certification or degree program. Training includes classroom lecture, practical labs, in-hospital clinical experience, and a field internship.
Paramedics are trained to perform all of the skills as an EMT plus:
- Advanced patient assessment
- Airway management
- Intravenous fluid therapy
- Trauma management
- Pharmacology
- Cardiology
- Other life-saving medical skills
Now Hiring Paramedics
Cetronia is currently offering a $3,600 sign-on bonus for full-time paramedics.