Dreambound
Blog

How to Become an EMT in Wisconsin (2024)

htba_EMT_in_Wisconsin

Want personalized insights?

Let Skipper help you discover new career pathways

coach

Becoming an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) is a rewarding journey that involves dedicated EMT training, obtaining EMT certification, and eventually seeking EMT jobs that offer a good amount of EMT salary. This blog will guide you through every step of the process, from initial training to finding the right job, helping you embark on a meaningful career in emergency medical services.

Key Points

  • EMTs provide immediate medical care in emergencies, assessing conditions and transporting patients safely.
  • To become an EMT in Wisconsin, complete training, pass the NREMT exam, and seek state certification.
  • In Wisconsin, the average EMT salary is $41,840 annually.

Career Paths and Opportunities after Becoming an Emergency Medical Technician

Becoming an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) can open up a variety of career paths and opportunities within the field of emergency medical services. Here are some of the career paths you can pursue after becoming an EMT:

  1. Paramedic: Many EMTs choose to advance their careers by becoming paramedics. Paramedics have a higher level of training and can provide more advanced medical care. They can administer medications, start intravenous lines, and perform advanced procedures, such as intubation. Paramedics often work on ambulances or in emergency departments.

  2. Flight Paramedic: Some EMTs and paramedics choose to specialize in flight medicine and become flight paramedics. Flight paramedics provide medical care to patients who are being transported by helicopter or airplane. They must be able to work in high-stress environments and make quick decisions in challenging situations.

  3. Emergency Room Technician: EMTs can also work in hospital emergency departments as emergency room technicians. In this role, they assist nurses and physicians with patient care, perform basic medical procedures, and help with the coordination of patient flow. Emergency room technicians often work in fast-paced environments and must be able to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.

  4. Firefighter: Many firefighters are also trained as EMTs. Firefighters respond to a variety of emergencies, including fires, medical emergencies, and hazardous materials incidents. They often work closely with EMTs and paramedics to provide medical care at the scene of an emergency.

  5. Industrial EMT: Some EMTs work in industrial settings, such as manufacturing plants or oil rigs, as industrial EMTs. These EMTs are responsible for providing medical care to employees who are injured or become ill while on the job. They may also provide first aid training and education to employees.

  6. Instructor: EMTs with several years of experience can become instructors and teach EMT training programs. Instructors are responsible for teaching students the necessary skills and knowledge to become certified EMTs. They may work in community colleges, vocational schools, or private training programs.

These are just a few of the many career paths you can pursue after becoming an EMT. The field of emergency medical services is diverse and offers a range of opportunities for growth and advancement.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to become an EMT?

Becoming an EMT typically takes about 6 months. This includes completing an approved EMT training program, which usually requires 150-200 hours of coursework and hands-on experience, followed by passing the certification exam.

How long is EMT school in Wisconsin?

EMT training programs in Wisconsin generally take around 150-200 hours to complete, which can be finished in approximately 6 months depending on the specific program and your schedule.

What is the difference between an EMR and an EMT?

An Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) provides basic emergency care and is trained to assist EMTs and paramedics. EMTs, on the other hand, have more extensive training and can perform more advanced medical procedures, such as administering medications and using medical equipment like defibrillators.

How much does an EMT make?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) in May 2023, the annual salary for an EMT is $38,930. In Wisconsin, the average EMT salary is slightly higher at $41,840 per year.

Final Thoughts

Becoming an EMT is a deeply rewarding path for those passionate about helping others and thriving in high-pressure situations. With the right EMT training and certification, you'll enter a field where every day offers the chance to make a real difference. Start by updating your resume, networking, and seeking volunteer or part-time EMT jobs to gain experience. Further education can increase your EMT salary and open up more advanced roles. Whether you aspire to be a paramedic, flight medic, or emergency room technician, each path brings unique challenges and rewards. If you're driven to support others during their most vulnerable moments, becoming an EMT in Wisconsin could be the perfect fit for you.

Dreambound offers a window into various career paths, so if you're considering a shift in your career, browse through these articles:

Athena Kan
Written by
Athena Kan

Athena is Co-founder and CEO of Dreambound.

Share this post: