AMR Northwest Strengthens Diversity in Workforce Through EMS Scholarship Program
1.7.2025
The initiative is aimed at creating a more inclusive and representative EMS workforce in Southwest Washington and the Portland area.
American Medical Response (AMR) Northwest is proud to announce the launch of its 2025 Diversity Scholarship Program, an initiative aimed at creating a more inclusive and representative emergency medical services (EMS) workforce in Southwest Washington and the Portland area. The program will offer eight emergency medical technician (EMT) and paramedic scholarships to aspiring first responders from diverse backgrounds.
“Research shows that a diverse EMS workforce leads to stronger patient connections, more effective care, and improved health outcomes. Yet, current data suggests that the EMS workforce remains predominantly white. This scholarship is designed to help address that disparity by creating more pathways for people from diverse backgrounds to enter the field and bring new voices and experiences to EMS,” said Weston Perkins-Clark, Senior Community Education Coordinator for AMR Southwest Washington.
AMR paramedic Tiffany Kanaka, a 2023 Diversity Scholarship recipient, shared her experience: “I really love this job. I am so grateful for the AMR Diversity Scholarship, which allowed me to complete paramedic school without financial setbacks, accelerating my path to achieving my career goals.” Kanaka now proudly serves the citizens of Multnomah County, contributing to the vital work of saving lives and improving community health outcomes.
The AMR Diversity Scholarship Program covers tuition, textbooks, uniforms, and course fees required to complete EMT and paramedic certification courses at approved institutions. In addition to financial support, recipients will gain invaluable mentorship and guidance throughout their training journey, ensuring they have the resources to succeed in their careers.
“At AMR, we are committed to providing the highest level of pre-hospital care, and that means fostering diversity in EMS and creating opportunities for professional development and growth within our own community,” added Perkins-Clark.
The scholarship program is open to individuals who identify as members of racial or ethnic minority groups. Applicants must demonstrate a strong interest in EMS and have a successful high school academic record. While bilingual candidates and those with financial need will receive additional consideration, these are not mandatory criteria for eligibility.
Kanaka emphasized the program’s comprehensive support: “Working with AMR has been the best experience. The scholarship program provided not just financial assistance but also ongoing mentorship and direction from program coordinators, ensuring I felt supported every step of the way.”
AMR invites aspiring first responders from diverse backgrounds to apply and take the first step toward a rewarding career in emergency medical services. Applications for the 2025 Diversity Scholarship Program will be accepted through January 15, 2025. Interested candidates can learn more and apply at https://amr.jotform.com/242677066515058.
“Research shows that a diverse EMS workforce leads to stronger patient connections, more effective care, and improved health outcomes. Yet, current data suggests that the EMS workforce remains predominantly white. This scholarship is designed to help address that disparity by creating more pathways for people from diverse backgrounds to enter the field and bring new voices and experiences to EMS,” said Weston Perkins-Clark, Senior Community Education Coordinator for AMR Southwest Washington.
AMR paramedic Tiffany Kanaka, a 2023 Diversity Scholarship recipient, shared her experience: “I really love this job. I am so grateful for the AMR Diversity Scholarship, which allowed me to complete paramedic school without financial setbacks, accelerating my path to achieving my career goals.” Kanaka now proudly serves the citizens of Multnomah County, contributing to the vital work of saving lives and improving community health outcomes.
The AMR Diversity Scholarship Program covers tuition, textbooks, uniforms, and course fees required to complete EMT and paramedic certification courses at approved institutions. In addition to financial support, recipients will gain invaluable mentorship and guidance throughout their training journey, ensuring they have the resources to succeed in their careers.
“At AMR, we are committed to providing the highest level of pre-hospital care, and that means fostering diversity in EMS and creating opportunities for professional development and growth within our own community,” added Perkins-Clark.
The scholarship program is open to individuals who identify as members of racial or ethnic minority groups. Applicants must demonstrate a strong interest in EMS and have a successful high school academic record. While bilingual candidates and those with financial need will receive additional consideration, these are not mandatory criteria for eligibility.
Kanaka emphasized the program’s comprehensive support: “Working with AMR has been the best experience. The scholarship program provided not just financial assistance but also ongoing mentorship and direction from program coordinators, ensuring I felt supported every step of the way.”
AMR invites aspiring first responders from diverse backgrounds to apply and take the first step toward a rewarding career in emergency medical services. Applications for the 2025 Diversity Scholarship Program will be accepted through January 15, 2025. Interested candidates can learn more and apply at https://amr.jotform.com/242677066515058.
