Senator Helming Joins Genesee Valley BOCES to Announce Launch of EMS Program at Mount Morris Career and Technical Education Center

Senator Pamela Helming was proud to join Genesee Valley BOCES (GV BOCES) to announce the official launch of its Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Program at the Mount Morris Career and Technical Education Center. The EMS Program, designed to prepare students for lifesaving careers, offers classroom instruction, clinical experience at Noyes Hospital, and ambulance ride time. Students graduate with certifications like the NYS EMT Certification and dual-enrollment college credits from Monroe Community College, positioning them for careers as EMTs, paramedics, nurses, and more.

Senator Helming said “In every conversation with our local EMS providers and fire departments, I hear the same thing repeatedly, we need more volunteers – younger people to consider emergency service as a career. Over the last several years, I’ve led roundtables and workgroups talking with EMS professionals, fire chiefs and municipalities discussing this critical challenge and trying to come up with solutions. The opening of this program is a celebration of a solution - that began with a simple conversation during a meeting with Jerry Jackson and Floyd Sick – former Director of Dansville Ambulance.”

This program’s journey began in the summer of 2023, when Senator Pamela Helming’s office initiated conversations with GV BOCES leadership. At a September 2023 meeting, Senator Helming, Floyd Sick and Jerry Jackson of the Dansville Ambulance Company, and Matt Flowers, Executive Principal of GV BOCES discussed the dire need for EMS workers in the area. The meeting inspired Flowers to pursue the creation of this program, supported by partnerships with Livingston County EMS, Monroe Community College, and the Mount Morris CTE Center.

Matt Flowers, Director of GV BOCES, said “We're thrilled to introduce the new EMT program at Mount Morris Career and Technical Education Center, a significant addition that directly addresses the evolving needs of our region. As communities across the area continue to face increased demand for emergency medical services, it became clear that there was a pressing need to train and develop the next generation of skilled first responders. This program not only offers students practical, hands-on experience but also instills a sense of responsibility and compassion essential for those who serve on the front lines. Our goal is to equip graduates with the technical knowledge and confidence to respond to emergencies with professionalism, ultimately making a positive and lasting impact on the health and safety of our community.”

During the event, Floyd Sick was honored for his instrumental role in the launch of this program.  Floyd passed away in October of 2023. Senator Helming presented Floyd’s wife, Shelley Sick, and his kids, Joshua and Hailey, with a resolution to honor Floyd’s contribution.

Senator Helming said “Floyd was devoted to his community and committed to giving back as an elected official, as a volunteer firefighter, a Rotarian and, of course, as an EMT. He would be so proud by the launch of this program.”

Jerry Jackson, President of Dansville Ambulance added “The agency and Floyd's family are grateful for all those involved in bringing Floyd's vision to reality. The resolution from the Senator is well deserved. We hope Floyd's legacy will last well into the future.” 

For more information, please contact Senator Helming at helming@nysenate.gov.

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