JAMESTOWN, N.Y. -- At ALSTAR EMS in Jamestown, there is a need for paramedics. They are essential more than ever, in more ways than one. We got a special look at the training program that’s about to take place.

The sound of sirens is something you don’t want to hear, especially when it involves you or someone you love. But, on the other side of those sirens are Brian Wilcox and Kelsey Mattison, and maybe one day you.

"(We) probably have one of the most shortages seen in the medical field," Brian Wilcox, ALSTAR EMS paramedic program director said. "So, we are always looking."

That’s why Wilcox invited us to the training facility on Monday. They are preparing for their next session, starting in January.  

"Our paramedic program doesn't just benefit our company, we train through all the three Southern Tier counties," Wilcox said.  

There are looking to have 40 already EMTS fill these seats, virtually. Over the course of 14 months, they’ll learn how to intubate patients, administer IVs, both in through the veins and in the bone. Classes are two times a week. Wilcox says a silver lining to the pandemic is it’s made the training more accessible.  

"The first five months, from January 11 to May 16, we are going to be totally virtual," Wilcox said.  

Labs will then follow at a safe capacity. While the job certainly comes with some drawbacks, like long hours and tough, heartbreaking calls, Mattison explains why the good outweighs it all.  

"It’s nice going home and knowing you did something good for the day," Mattison, a paramedic with ALSTAR EMS said.  

Plus, Mattison says, if you’re sort of an adrenaline junkie, it keeps you on our toes.  

"There’s no set normal day," Mattison said as she smiled through her mask. 

"You see somebody and they come back and thank you, there is no better feeling than that," Wilcox added. 

Applications are being accepted right now. You can call 716-664-8319 or email wilcoxb@upmc.edu for more information.