Clay County EMS Expands Workforce Through Apprenticeship Program

Clay County EMS is strengthening its workforce through participation in a state-funded apprenticeship initiative supported by Workforce Connections, creating new opportunities for employees to advance their careers while continuing to serve the community.

Through this program, five EMS employees are receiving educational funding and hands-on training to build critical skills in emergency medical services. Haley Coons is currently pursuing Paramedic certification, while Hailey Mull and Everett Benjamin are enrolled in Advanced EMT programs. Emma Coil and Hailey Mullins have successfully completed their Advanced EMT certifications through the initiative.

The apprenticeship program is part of a broader regional effort led by Workforce Connections to strengthen the healthcare workforce across the Upper Cumberland. These programs follow an earn while you learn model, combining real-world experience with structured classroom instruction to help participants gain certifications without stepping away from their current roles.

Funding for the initiative is made possible through state and regional workforce development efforts, including support from the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development. Apprenticeship programs are widely recognized as an effective strategy for addressing workforce shortages, particularly in high-demand fields like emergency medical services.

“This program is a tremendous opportunity not only for our employees but for the citizens we serve,” said EMS Director Andy Hall. “By investing in the education and advancement of our staff, we are strengthening the future of EMS in Clay County and ensuring our community continues to receive high-quality emergency care.”

Workforce Connections plays a key role in supporting these efforts by helping employers access funding, develop apprenticeship programs, and reduce the cost of training while building a pipeline of skilled, long-term employees.

Clay County EMS continues to prioritize professional development, recruitment, and retention, recognizing that a well-trained workforce is essential to delivering reliable emergency services. Partnerships with Workforce Connections and Apprenticeship Tennessee are helping build a stronger, more resilient EMS workforce that will benefit the region for years to come.