EMT
ROOKIE SCHOOL
STEP INTO A CAREER
MEMS Rookie School is an intensive 8–10 week EMT-B training program that prepares you for National Registry testing and a full-time future in EMS. You train with one of Arkansas’ most respected EMS organizations, pay nothing for tuition, books, or testing, and move directly toward employment with MEMS after successful completion and licensure.
Paid Training.
No Tuition.
At MEMS, financial barriers should not stand in the way of starting a career in EMS. Rookie School is offered at no cost to students, with MEMS covering tuition, books, testing fees, and training expenses. During the program, students train full-time and transition toward a career path built around real-world field experience and service to the community
EMT CLASS DATES
Rookie 54
January 19, 2026
Rookie 56
August 17, 2026
Rookie 57
January 2027
What is Rookie School?
Rookie School is MEMS’ in-house EMT training program. It’s a full-time, paid position where you’re hired first and trained second; moving from classroom learning to real-world EMS experience.
How much does Rookie School cost?
$0.00
Rookie School is completely paid for by MEMS. You’ll earn a salary and benefits while you are in class, instead of paying tuition out of pocket.
Do I get paid during Rookie School?
Yes.
You are a MEMS employee from day one, earning pay and benefits throughout the entire training process.
How long is Rookie School?
Rookie School typically lasts 8-10 weeks and includes classroom instruction, skills training, and preparation for the National Registry exam, followed by field training.
What is Physical Agility?
Physical Agility is a structured assessment designed to roughly demonstrate performance readiness.
You’ll move through a series of practical activities that may include:
• Walking, carrying equipment, and navigating real-world environments
• Following instructions and completing hands-on tasks
• Interacting with MEMS employees from both the field and office
It’s not just about strength. It’s about how you move, communicate, follow directions, and operate as part of a team.
Do I need prior medical experience?
No.
Rookie School is designed for individuals with little to no medical background. We train you from the ground up.
What happens after I complete Rookie School?
After successfully completing training and passing your certification, you’ll transition into field operations as a working EMT with MEMS.
Do I have to pass a test?
Yes.
Throughout the course, there are weekly exams, and you’ll need to pass the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) exam to become certified.
Is Rookie School full-time?
Yes.
This is a full-time commitment. You’ll be expected to attend all training sessions and meet performance standards.
What kind of schedule should I expect?
Training is structured and consistent during Rookie School. Once you move into the field, schedules shift to operational EMS shifts.
Where does Rookie School take place?
Training is conducted at the MEMS Training Academy at Station 1, with additional time spent in the field during clinical and ride time.
What about Room and Board?
MEMS does not provide room and board.
Rookie School is a local, in-person training program, and employees are responsible for their own housing and transportation.
What is the NREMT exam?
The NREMT (National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians) exam is the certification test required to become an EMT.
It evaluates both your knowledge and hands-on skills to ensure you’re ready to provide patient care in the field.
Throughout Rookie School, MEMS prepares you for this exam and supports you every step of the way.
What is the Student to Faculty Ratio?
During Rookie School, we aim to maintain a low student-to-instructor ratio, typically around 5:1.
Instructor availability may vary, but the program is designed to provide consistent access to hands-on guidance and support.
MEMS has 8 full-time instructors and multiple adjunct instructors.
How do I apply?
Applications are posted on our careers page when a Rookie School class is open. Look for positions that include “Rookie” in the title.
BILLING QUESTIONS
MEMS is committed to providing quick and accurate responses to your inquiries about your billing statement or any other questions that you might have regarding your bill. Please contact our billing office, Monday to Friday, from 8am to 5pm at 501.301.1403.WHAT IS HIPAA?
HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996) is United States legislation that provides data privacy and security provisions for safeguarding medical information.LEARN MORE