“This investment builds on years of collaborative work to create meaningful, career-ready pathways in public safety,” said Dr. Jeannie Worden, President of NTC. “The Firefighter/Paramedic Apprenticeship Program will help to ensure our communities are prepared with skilled, well-trained professionals today and into the future.”

The Firefighter/Paramedic Apprenticeship Program is designed to expand career pathways through education and hands-on training, preparing individuals for careers in public safety while helping address future workforce needs across the region. The 18-month program will immerse apprentices in the full scope of firefighter/paramedic work through a structured combination of classroom instruction and supervised, real-world experience, while allowing them to earn a wage and complete their education.

“This apprenticeship model directly supports our ability to maintain high service levels as we plan for future retirements and respond to growing community needs,” said Wausau Fire Chief Jeremy Kopp. “It also highlights the importance of sustained investment in public safety at the local and federal level, including the upcoming April referendum to maintain 12 firefighter positions. Together, this funding, our partnership with NTC and continued community support will help ensure we have the personnel, training and resources necessary to keep Wausau and Wausau area residents safe for years to come.”

Each cohort will include nine apprentices. Participants will complete 1,628 hours of instruction through Northcentral Technical College at the Wausau campus and Public Safety Center of Excellence, along with 1,680 hours of paid, hands-on training that reinforces classroom learning through applied experience.

“First responders are the backbone of emergency services in our communities, and I worked closely with Northcentral Technical College to secure federal funding to invest in recruiting firefighters and paramedics, strengthen our workforce and keep families safe across Central Wisconsin,” Senator Tammy Baldwin said.

Federal funding will support curriculum enhancements, program promotion, instruction and training costs, uniforms and safety gear, training equipment, program development and apprentice wages.

“We are incredibly grateful to Northcentral Technical College and Senator Tammy Baldwin for their leadership and support of the Firefighter/Paramedic Apprenticeship Program,” Chief Kopp said. “This federal investment is a major step forward for public safety in our region and reflects the strength of the long-standing partnership between NTC and the Wausau Fire Department. Programs like this help ensure we are building a strong, well-trained pipeline of firefighter/paramedics who are prepared to serve our community from day one.”

This investment supports the College’s continued commitment to preparing highly trained public safety professionals who help keep communities safe across northcentral Wisconsin.

“We are deeply grateful to Senator Baldwin for her tireless advocacy and continued support of NTC and workforce education across our region,” Dr. Worden said. “This is an exciting day for our College, our partners and the communities we serve. Together, we are advancing education and training that keeps our communities strong, resilient and safe.”