SUPERIOR, Wis. (Northern News Now) – Advanced Emergency Medical Technicians (AEMT’s) are highly trained professionals who do more than basic first aid, they act as the crucial link between basic EMTs and full paramedics. Now, the city of Superior is considering a partnership with Northwood Technical College to train these lifesavers right here.
The Superior Fire Department already works closely with Mayo Clinic paramedics, offering initial first aid care until they arrive.
So why add advanced training now? The Blatnik Bridge replacement project is kicking off this year—and they say that changes everything.
Battalion Chief Joe Tribbey said, “understanding that with only one operating bridge, that we may be with patients longer and we may have some delays in other levels of care getting to us.”
Training for 27 firefighters kicked off today, that happens in a hybrid format with two live lectures a week, which is six hours a week of classroom training. Firefighters will also have an additional physical lab day each week, along with 72 hours of clinical practice. After that, they will be able to take the final test and receive certification.
It costs $62,000 for the department to undergo the training, but a state grant and the Fire Department’s EMS budget cover it entirely, leaving zero impact on resident tax dollars.
“It’s just going to enhance our already really good patient care, and I think they’ll learn things about themselves that maybe they didn’t realize they could do,” said Tribbey.
They’ll learn advanced skills like starting IVs and giving medications, which firefighter Juliet Homme says means better care for patients when it matters most.
“Just having more tools in your toolbox is always beneficial, and more knowledge and more ability to help on a deeper level when people need help,” said Hommes.
Superior’s firefighters aren’t waiting until the deadline—training is already underway, despite having nearly a year to prepare.
“Between now and the end of June, is going to be classroom and clinicals, and then between June and the end of the year we will be purchasing equipment and then hit the ground running,” said Tribbey.
The Superior Fire Department hopes to have the trainings fully implemented starting next year.
Click here to download the Northern News Now app or our Northern News Now First Alert weather app.
Copyright 2026 Northern News Now. All rights reserved.
link
