Texas EMS sees record applicant surge as agency works to fill vacancies

AUSTIN, Texas — Austin-Travis County EMS officials said interest in joining the agency has reached a record high, with 350 applications submitted by the Sept. 15, 2025, deadline — the most in the department’s history, according to Capt. Shannon Koesterer.

Koesterer told KXAN that ATCEMS graduated 17 cadets in December as the agency works to fill about 100 vacancies.

| MORE: Paramedic vs. EMT: Which path is right for you?

She credited the increase to expanded recruiting efforts in recent years. In 2017, ATCEMS launched a recruiting ambassador program to reach applicants nationwide, with staff visiting colleges, high schools and recruitment events to attract potential emergency responders to central Texas.

Acadian Companies, a private ambulance and air medical provider, is also recruiting prospective EMTs to support its operations across 32 Texas counties.

“Over the last few years, we’ve seen experienced medics have opportunities to go work in industry or go work in hospitals,” Acadian’s Ambulance Director of Public Affairs Butch Oberhoff said. “So there is a true career path.”

Oberhoff said EMT shortages are widespread but often worse in rural areas as unincorporated populations grow.

Texas lawmakers also approved House Bill 3000 to create a rural ambulance grant program, with applications expected to open Jan. 1, 2026. House Bill 18 was also passed, which supports rural hospitals and health systems that partner with EMS.

Looking to navigate the complexities of grants funding? Lexipol is your go-to resource for state-specific, fully developed grants services that can help fund your needs. Find out more about our grants services here.