Boston EMS Celebrate Academy Graduation and Recent Promotions

Take note, while it's nearly impossible to not hear about cuts due to the "economy" - Boston is still hiring. The Boston EMS Academy graduated 18 new EMTs on Oct. 27.

There were also promotions of Superintendent Tim Holland, two deputy superintendents, and one lieutenant.

“When you wear that uniform, you represent the care and respect that the City of Boston has for our residents and visitors,” said Mayor Thomas Menino. “Not just anyone has the right to wear the shirt and badge of a Boston EMS EMT. It has to be earned, and you have earned it today.”

Roslindale's Robert Grueter decided to work in EMS after seeing a bad car accident, and signed up for an EMT course a week after. “I wanted to be challenged. I wanted to work with the best in the field doing the hardest work.”

Chief James Hooley said, “Remember that this is only the beginning. Stay true to your training and the motivation that brought you here. You have chosen this profession. Starting today you bear as much responsibility to further your profession and the future of Boston EMS as any one of us.”

The Boston EMS Academy is a 6-month training program of classroom work, field instruction, exercises and drills to prepare EMTs. Those enrolled in the accredited Academy are already state certified EMTs, said Boston EMS Director of Media Relations Jennifer Mehigan.