No matter how much training new emergency medical technicians undergo in paramedic programs, they'll have to learn some of their essential skills from field training officers.
The great responsibility placed into F-T-Os' hands means department leaders must be careful in selecting the right individuals for the role.
Once chosen, F-T-Os need the authority to effectively instruct and evaluate their new team members, even taking disciplinary action if trainees don't meet standards. When supervisors hand down expectations, officers in the field have to make sure their candidates are on track.
Public safety workforce management systems, designed to accommodate the complex rules and unique roles common to fire and EMS departments, can help keep track of such programs. Both trainees' progress and F-T-Os' hours spent guiding them are easy to log and track.
Come back soon for more on public safety workforce management.
