University City District’s award-winning program, West Philadelphia Skills Initiative, which helps unemployed West Philly residents connect with local employers seeking talent, has been on hiatus since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. But here’s some great news: the program is launching its first virtual training.

The Skills Initiative in partnership with Drexel University will train aspiring Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) for the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) exam. Unlike the majority of Skills Initiative training programs, this cohort will serve all Philadelphia residents, regardless of zip code. 

The 13-week curriculum will consist of foundational classes conducted virtually, followed by a hybrid of in-person and virtual EMT training classes. The program concludes with an in-person administration of the NREMT
exam on Saturday, Dec. 19. EMT training is offered at no cost and participants will receive a $150 weekly stipend while enrolled in the program.

The Skills Initiative is recruiting goal-oriented, motivated individuals with high-quality people skills across Philadelphia for this program. Interested applicants must be 18 years of age or older, reside within the city of Philadelphia, possess a high school diploma or GED and valid PA driver’s license, be physically strong and agile, and read at an 11th grade level or higher.

Applications will be accepted through Tuesday, Sept. 1 at 5 p.m.. For more information and to submit an application, go here.