The San Diego Workforce Partnership (SDWP) today announced $4 million in critically needed funding for regional Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and firefighting training programs. This investment will expand the pipeline of trained emergency responders, diversify the EMS and fire workforce, and strengthen wildfire preparedness across the region.
“We are creating the next generation of firefighters and paramedics in partnership with high schools, community colleges and emergency services providers,” said Rachel Bereza, President & CEO of the San Diego Workforce Partnership. “By investing in our partners and creating more accessible entry options into EMS and fire service, we’re strengthening San Diego’s resilience while also opening doors of opportunity for veterans, career-switchers and communities historically underrepresented in these critical jobs.”
The awards enable the Chula Vista Fire Department, City of Vista, County of San Diego, Southwestern Community College, San Diego Miramar College, San Diego Regional Fire Foundation, San Diego Fire-Rescue Foundation, 1904 Cadets and the San Diego & Imperial Center of Excellence to expand EMS and fire training programs, provide wraparound support for participants, and address systemic barriers in the career pathway. These organizations were chosen for their demonstrated ability to reach underserved populations, foster equity and prepare job seekers for high-demand careers in emergency response.
This initiative will strengthen the career pathway and pipeline for recruiting and training fire and EMS professionals by engaging new and diverse communities, analyzing workforce trends through research, and supporting new entrants into these careers. The goal is to expand vital public safety staffing to better protect neighborhoods and communities across San Diego County.
Funded by the California Workforce Development Board’s Priority Sector Programming in Healthcare & Public Administration Grant, the initiative supports the EMS-Fire Pilot Pathways Initiative, which will:
- Enroll 250 participants in EMS/fire training programs
- Provide wraparound services to help 200 participants complete training
- Place at least 150 graduates into EMS and fire service roles
The program is part of the broader Fire & EMS Pilot Program funded by the CWDB under the Priority Sector Programming in Healthcare & Public Administration Grant. The grant period runs now through Sept. 30, 2026.
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