The Manitoba government is taking major steps to strengthen emergency medical services across the province by expanding training opportunities for paramedics, Premier Wab Kinew, Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care Minister Uzoma Asagwara and Advanced Education and Training Minister Renée Cable announced on November 19.
"Our government is rebuilding emergency medical services so Manitobans can get care faster," said Kinew. "We are expanding training in the north and opening new pathways into the profession to make it easier to start a health-care career. These steps mean more trained paramedics in our communities, quicker response times and better care for families provincewide."
The Manitoba government introduced a new direct-entry Primary Care Paramedics (PCP) program this fall at RRC Polytech, allowing students to begin training and working sooner than ever before, the premier noted. The Manitoba government is opening 14 training seats under this new stream to increase enrolment of PCP seats at RRC Polytech to 40.
"Our government is opening doors for more Manitobans to pursue careers in emergency care," said Asagwara. "This will help stabilize emergency medical services staffing, reduce wait times and ensure our paramedic workforce reflects the communities they serve. We're committed to supporting workers from their first day of training through to advanced practice."
To further support northern and rural communities, the Manitoba government expanded training through University College of the North, adding 16 new PCP seats in Thompson for a total of 32 seats between Thompson and The Pas.
"Expanding these training seats is about creating real opportunities for Manitobans and strengthening the front-line services our communities rely on," said Cable. "Our government is helping more students get the skills they need to build meaningful careers right here at home. This investment supports our health-care system, supports our northern and rural communities, and ensures Manitobans can train, work and thrive in the province they love."
"At RRC Polytech, we're committed to removing barriers and creating new pathways so more Manitobans can access the training they need to build meaningful careers in health care," said Fred Meier, president and CEO, RRC Polytech. "By working with our partners in government and community, we're expanding programs and delivering education in communities across the province, as well as strengthening the quality of training through the use of our Simulation Centre at our Notre Dame Campus in Winnipeg. Paramedics are crucial front-line health workers and we are proud to be able to offer training that prepares them to be leaders across the province; from the classroom to controlled simulations, and then on work placements as they prepare to start their careers."
Additionally, the Manitoba government is aligning the Paramedicine - Advanced Care (PAC) program with practicum availability by shifting to a full spring intake at RRC Polytech. This ensures graduates can advance in their training immediately and build their skills. As a result, 13 PAC graduates will complete practicum placements with Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service in fall 2026 and 16 in fall 2027.
