Military Medic to Mentor: Training Next-Gen EMTs

Mike M. is the Director of the Emergency Medical Technician program (EMT) Program at Ultimate Medical Academy (UMA), where he leads strategic development, implementation, and continuous improvement. Below, he discusses his unexpected journey into emergency medicine, how his diverse experience shaped his philosophy, and UMA’s approach to preparing the next generation of EMTs.

What inspired your journey into emergency medicine and education?

I initially enrolled in an EMT class because I was told I needed first aid training to become a scuba instructor. What I didn’t realize at the time was that this class — my very first in college — would completely change the course of my life. Becoming an EMT opened doors I never expected, including the opportunity to serve in the military.

During my time in the military, I served as an Air Force Medical Specialist, which is where I first stepped into the role of an instructor. I found that the more I taught, the more confident and skilled I became — and I genuinely enjoyed helping others grow. That experience sparked a passion not only for emergency medicine but also for education. Now, years later, I’m still just as committed to inspiring and training the next generation of EMTs.

You’ve worked in hyperbaric medicine, offshore rescue, and dive safety — how have those experiences shaped your approach to training EMTs?

Working in hyperbaric medicine, offshore and remote medicine, and dive safety has given me a very real-world, high-stakes perspective on emergency care. These are environments where there’s no room for error — and often no second chances. Whether treating a diver with decompression sickness in a hyperbaric chamber or responding to a medical emergency miles offshore, I learned the importance of staying calm under pressure, thinking critically, and relying on strong foundational skills.

That mindset directly influences how I train EMTs today. I don’t want learners to simply memorize protocols — I want them to understand the “why” behind what they’re doing and to be prepared for the unpredictable nature of emergency medicine. My goal is to create confident, adaptable professionals who can handle whatever situation they’re faced with — because in this field, that can mean the difference between life and death.

What makes UMA’s EMT program unique compared to other training programs in the country?

What sets UMA’s EMT program apart is our student-centered approach and our commitment to producing field-ready EMTs — not just test-ready graduates. We combine foundational knowledge with hands-on skills training, all delivered in a structured, supportive environment designed to build confidence and competence.

Our curriculum goes beyond the basics by incorporating real-world scenarios, emphasizing critical thinking, and preparing students for the emotional and physical demands of the role. Many of our instructors bring decades of field experience, offering learners the opportunity to learn from those who’ve worked in the trenches — from 911 systems and disaster response to military medicine.

The program launched in August 2022 — what were the driving forces behind its creation?

While I wasn’t involved in the launch, it’s clear that the program was created in response to the increasing demand for first responders. Since then, the program has consistently met or exceeded state and national standards, while preparing learners to be successful EMTs — something I’ve been proud to lead since joining UMA in 2024.

How does UMA’s partnership with the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay and TransCare Ambulance Service enhance student training?

UMA’s partnerships with the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay and TransCare Ambulance Service provide learners with meaningful hands-on experience, as many seek valuable exposure to the full scope of the role. This direct involvement enables learners to apply classroom knowledge while developing critical decision-making skills, adaptability, and confidence through diverse emergency situations.

What kind of hands-on experiences do students receive, and how do these prepare them for real-world emergencies?

At UMA, hands-on training is at the heart of everything we do. Our learners don’t just learn from textbooks — they practice real skills in real-world scenarios. From the very beginning of the program, learners are introduced to simulated emergencies that mirror what they’ll encounter in the field: trauma scenes, cardiac arrests, vehicle accidents, and more.

Our learners engage with high-fidelity mannequins, medical equipment, and scenario-based training that emphasizes decision-making under pressure. As they progress, they participate in clinical rotations and ambulance ride-alongs, applying their training in live settings and caring for patients under the guidance of experienced EMTs.

This combination of simulation and field experience builds confidence, reinforces critical thinking, and prepares our learners to step into EMT roles with the skills and mindset needed to succeed from day one.

With the U.S. facing a nationwide EMT shortage, how is UMA helping to close that gap?

UMA is addressing the EMT shortage through a blend of innovative training approaches, comprehensive student support, and strategic collaborations. Programs such as the EMT initiative — developed in partnership with the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay and offered to its employees — help reduce financial barriers by providing tuition assistance and paid, hands-on experience.

By focusing on learner retention and certification preparation, UMA is producing confident, job-ready EMTs who are making an immediate impact in their communities.

How do wraparound services and grant support help students overcome barriers to completing the program?

Supportive wraparound services — including academic tutoring, mentoring, transportation assistance, and career guidance — help learners overcome real-life challenges that hinder their progress. When paired with grant funding and tuition assistance from the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay, these resources remove financial and personal barriers, empowering students to stay focused, complete their training, and successfully launch their careers as EMTs.

How do you see the role of EMTs evolving, and how is UMA preparing students for that future?

The role of EMTs is evolving far beyond the traditional 911 response. Today’s EMTs are increasingly involved in community paramedicine, disaster response, behavioral health crises, and even preventive care in underserved areas. They’re becoming frontline public health professionals — bridging gaps in access and care.

At UMA, we prepare students for this future by focusing not only on core EMT skills but also on adaptability, communication, and critical thinking. Our training incorporates real-world scenarios, interprofessional collaboration, and emerging trends in healthcare delivery. We’re not just teaching students how to respond — we’re teaching them how to lead, adapt, and thrive in a rapidly changing healthcare landscape.