While 53 EMTs and three paramedics raised their right hands and took the oath of office in Baltimore on Monday, the 'help wanted' sign isn't going away anytime soon.
There are still 21 EMT and 130 firefighter positions vacant, WBAL reported.
"They're doing an extraordinarily noble job. This group's going to have an immediate impact on service, both for fire suppression and for EMS, and it's our goal, our plan to have more right behind them," Fire Chief-designate James Wallace said.
Proud to be overseeing his first graduation, Wallace said the graduates will have an impact on the significant shortage of EMTs.
"We have a service to provide. We're still able to provide that service, but just like any other department in the country, we want to be fully staffed. We want to have extra people."
Jade George, a graduate, said she and her classmates faced a uniquely tough situation while training during the COVID-19 pandemic. But at Monday afternoon's graduation -- with eight family members by her side -- she told 11 News that she and her classmates are stronger after overcoming those obstacles.
"I feel great. I feel wonderful. I'm blessed and grateful to be here. We're going to have great careers. I know that we were made to be here, all the work that we put in, the academy has prepared us. And I know that when we go out, we're going to help the citizens of Baltimore City."
