.png)
WSESI October 2025 News
- WSESI
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 1 day ago
New Wisconsin EMS Laws Strengthen Training and Support
Governor Tony Evers recently signed two bipartisan bills (2025 Wisconsin Acts 35 and 36) aimed at bolstering EMS training programs and reimbursement across the state. These changes will directly impact instructors, students, and EMS programs statewide.
• Senate Bill 182, now 2025 Wisconsin Act 35: Creates grants for Wisconsin Technical College System EMS programs and reimburses individuals and employers for EMS training expenses.
• Senate Bill 183, now 2025 Wisconsin Act 36: Increases Medicaid reimbursement for non-transport ambulance calls and requires annual EMS Board reports on training and scope of practice changes.
Why it matters: This funding provides new opportunities for EMS education programs to expand capacity and better support instructors and trainees. Programs should review how they can leverage tuition assistance and update curriculum for non-transport care.
Addressing Systemic Challenges in Wisconsin EMS
The Wisconsin Policy Forum recently published a report on fire and EMS services in Walworth County, highlighting major challenges such as staffing shortages, rising costs, and declining volunteerism. These findings underscore the critical importance of training and education in sustaining emergency services.
As instructors, your work directly shapes the next generation of responders. By training more qualified personnel, you help address workforce gaps and strengthen community safety. Consider how your curriculum and outreach efforts can help recruit and retain students to meet these statewide needs.
Resources & Grants
Wisconsin EMS Grant Warehouse: The Wisconsin EMS Association maintains a list of available state and federal grant programs for departments and training centers. Review current opportunities and deadlines here: https://www.wisconsinems.com/grants
CTE Incentive Grants: The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction offers incentive grants for Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs. These grants can support partnerships between high schools and technical colleges for EMS education. Learn more: https://dpi.wi.gov/cte/technical-incentive
Wisconsin Youth Firefighter Training Grant (DSPS): Supports fire departments, technical colleges, and school districts that establish or expand youth firefighter recruitment and training programs for middle and high school students. Awards up to $25,000. Learn more: https://dsps.wi.gov/Pages/Programs/FirefighterTrainingGrant/Default.aspx
Forest Fire Protection (FFP) Grant – Wisconsin DNR: A 50 % cost-share grant for Wisconsin fire departments and area fire associations to strengthen initial-attack and forest-fire suppression capabilities. Awards are up to $25,000 (approximate) Learn more: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/aid/ForestFireProtection.html
Federal Shutdown Disrupts Fire Training and Funding Programs
The ongoing federal government shutdown continues to affect the fire service across Wisconsin and beyond. While politics make headlines, the real consequences are hitting training programs, grants, and professional development opportunities for instructors.
State emergency officials report that FEMA grant disbursements and federal training schedules have been delayed, putting equipment upgrades, readiness initiatives, and disaster-response programs at risk. Departments and training centers that depend on federal pass-through funds may face temporary gaps.
For instructors, this means reviewing your calendars and ensuring your programs can withstand the delays. If your training relies on federal partners or equipment grants, anticipate longer turnaround times.
65th WSESI Conference Sessions Finalized!
Mark your calendars and plan on attending this years 65th annual conference. Our host for 2026 is Nicolet College in Rhinelander. The line-up this year includes an all star group including Famed Chief and Firefighting legend Forest Reeder, DSPS April Hammond and Gary Peck, Lt. Paul Vind, DCI Special Agent Eric Baine, NFA ISO & PICO courses, and our own Dave Yakowenko.
This year’s theme, “Collaborate. Connect. Conquer.”, focuses on strengthening instructional leadership, improving communication, and building the next generation of emergency service professionals.
Week-long Course is $400. Limited to 20
Ice-Rescue Technician Course is $175. Limited to 15
Friday & Saturday Sessions are $150, WSESI Members $125
NFA courses are $25, Limited to 25
Make your Hotel Reservations at the Clarion Pointe – Rhinelander Downtown
Group Name: Wisconsin Society of Emergency Services Instructors
Sign-up today at wsesi.org/conference
Membership Renewal Reminder
It’s that time again — your Wisconsin Society of Emergency Service Instructors membership renewal is due. Staying current ensures your voice and experience continue to shape instructor standards, course development, and educational policy across the state.
Membership supports:
Advocacy for instructor recognition and certification standards.
Access to training opportunities, conference discounts, and instructor resources.
Networking with peers who share your same challenges and passion for teaching.
👉 Renew today to stay connected and continue supporting the mission of advancing fire and EMS education in Wisconsin. Renew Your Membership Here
From the Secretary's Desk
The role of our instructors has never been more vital. As we move through another training cycle, remember that each student you teach represents the future of Wisconsin’s fire and EMS services. Take pride in your influence, stay adaptable, and continue to lead by example. Thank you for your dedication to the mission.
Area Training Opportunities
Beaver Dam Fire Department:
Comments