Finger Lakes Today

Senator Pamela Helming joined Genesee Valley BOCES to announce the launch of an Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Program at the Mount Morris Career and Technical Education Center. The program aims to prepare students for careers in emergency medical services through classroom instruction, clinical experience at Noyes Hospital, and ambulance ride time. Graduates will earn certifications such as the NYS EMT Certification and dual-enrollment college credits from Monroe Community College, equipping them for roles as EMTs, paramedics, nurses, and more.

"In every conversation with our local EMS providers and fire departments, I hear the same thing repeatedly, we need more volunteers – younger people to consider emergency service as a career," Senator Helming stated. She emphasized her involvement in roundtables and workgroups over recent years discussing this challenge with EMS professionals and fire chiefs. "The opening of this program is a celebration of a solution - that began with a simple conversation during a meeting with Jerry Jackson and Floyd Sick – former Director of Dansville Ambulance."

The initiative's roots trace back to summer 2023 when Senator Helming's office engaged with GV BOCES leadership. A pivotal meeting in September 2023 included discussions between Senator Helming, Floyd Sick, Jerry Jackson from Dansville Ambulance Company, and Matt Flowers, Executive Principal of GV BOCES. This meeting highlighted the urgent need for EMS workers locally and inspired Flowers to create the program in collaboration with Livingston County EMS, Monroe Community College, and the Mount Morris CTE Center.

Matt Flowers expressed his enthusiasm: "We're thrilled to introduce the new EMT program at Mount Morris Career and Technical Education Center... This program not only offers students practical hands-on experience but also instills a sense of responsibility and compassion essential for those who serve on the front lines."

During the announcement event, Floyd Sick was honored posthumously for his significant role in establishing the program. He passed away in October 2023. Senator Helming presented a resolution honoring his contributions to Floyd's wife Shelley Sick and their children Joshua and Hailey.

"Floyd was devoted to his community... He would be so proud by the launch of this program," Senator Helming remarked.

Jerry Jackson added: "The agency and Floyd's family are grateful for all those involved in bringing Floyd's vision to reality... We hope Floyd's legacy will last well into the future."

For further information about this initiative, contact Senator Helming at helming@nysenate.gov.