When lives are on the line, there’s no room for guesswork. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) professionals must stay sharp, knowledgeable, and prepared for a wide range of emergencies. One of the best ways to stay at the top of your game is by keeping your certifications up to date—and expanding your skillset as the industry evolves.
At EMS Training Zone, we believe education is a lifelong pursuit. Whether you’re just beginning your EMS journey or you’ve been in the field for years, here are 7 certifications that every EMS professional should strongly consider:
1. Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
Your EMT certification is the foundation of your career. This essential credential qualifies you to provide basic emergency care, assess patients, manage trauma, and transport them to medical facilities. Our state-approved EMT course prepares you not just to pass the NREMT exam, but to excel in real-life scenarios.
2. Basic Life Support (BLS)
Every EMS provider must know how to perform high-quality CPR and use an AED. The American Heart Association’s BLS certification ensures you’re prepared to respond to cardiac and respiratory emergencies with speed and confidence—making it a must-have for all healthcare and public safety professionals.
3. Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS)
ACLS builds on the basics of BLS and prepares EMS professionals to manage advanced cardiovascular emergencies. You’ll learn to interpret ECGs, manage airways, and administer emergency medications in critical situations. Required for paramedics and often recommended for advanced EMTs, this certification is a game-changer.
4. Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS)
Responding to pediatric emergencies requires a specialized skill set. PALS certification helps EMS providers recognize and treat infants and children in distress—from respiratory issues to cardiac arrest. It’s especially valuable for those working in transport, fire departments, or hospital-based EMS teams.
5. Prehospital Trauma Life Support (PHTLS)
Trauma remains one of the leading causes of EMS calls. PHTLS certification teaches evidence-based trauma care techniques focused on assessment, intervention, and transportation. It’s recognized worldwide as the gold standard for prehospital trauma care and is an essential tool for any EMS provider.
6. Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) or TECC
TCCC and TECC are specialized courses for EMS professionals working in high-risk environments, including active shooter situations, disasters, and military operations. You’ll learn how to care for patients under fire, manage bleeding, and prioritize life-saving interventions when traditional EMS isn’t an option.
7. IV Therapy Certification
Being able to initiate and manage IV lines is a crucial skill for advanced EMS professionals. IV Therapy Certification provides hands-on training in venipuncture, drip rates, and medication administration. It’s an excellent addition for EMTs and paramedics looking to expand their capabilities and enhance patient care.
The Value of Staying Certified
In EMS, every certification adds another layer of skill, confidence, and career potential. Keeping your credentials current ensures you’re always ready for the next challenge—and shows your commitment to excellence in the field.
At EMS Training Zone, we make staying certified simple. With small class sizes, flexible scheduling, and highly qualified instructors, we help EMS professionals stay sharp and meet all local and national requirements.
Looking to Get Certified or Recertified?
EMS Training Zone offers all the certifications listed above—plus tailored support for individuals, agencies, and healthcare teams.
📞 Call us at (402) 880-8203 or
📧 Email info@emstrainingzone.com to enroll in your next class.