Emergency Medical Technician
Emergency medical technicians (EMTs) are members of the emergency medical care team. They use their knowledge and skills to provide basic and advanced life support to seriously ill or injured patients before these patients reach the hospital. They are involved in patient rescue and they transport patients by ambulance or aircraft to appropriate medical centers.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
EMTs may be employed by ambulance, rescue or aeromedical services, in specialty areas of hospitals and by private industry, educational institutions and government agencies. On ambulances, EMTs usually work in teams of two and may be exposed to a variety of hazards. They work closely with police and fire departments.

HIGH SCHOOL PREPARATION
A high school diploma or equivalent is required, with courses in biology, math and chemistry recommended. A valid driver's license and a good driving record are also required.

ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS
EMTs complete a 110-hour training program at a community college, a university, or a municipal or county emergency medical service organization. Students in the community college or university curriculum become eligible at different levels in their education to take the exams given by the NC Office of Emergency Medical Technicians and/or the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians for the other levels of EMT certification.

AVERAGE STARTING SALARY
EMT $13,000 - $17,000 EMT-I $16,000 - $20,000 EMT-Paramedic $19,000 - 27,000.