The Rescue Unit of Saint Michael’s Fire & Rescue is a fully operational, student-staffed ambulance service responding to real emergencies across Chittenden County, Vermont. No experience required to join.
SMFR Rescue Unit
Transporting to a level 1 Trauma center
Responding to 911 medical calls across campus and the Burlington metro area
Running duty shifts with assigned riding positions and in-house crew leadership
Training weekly in high-level prehospital care and emergency response
Making real patient decisions and gaining trust from the local Level 1 Trauma Center
- Responding to 911 medical calls across campus and the Burlington metro area
- Running duty shifts with assigned riding positions and in-house crew leadership
- Training weekly in high-level prehospital care and emergency response
- Making real patient decisions and gaining trust from local EMS systems
You won’t be shadowing. You'll be on scene:
FDNY Officers, Flight Nurses, Coast Guard Rescue Swimmers, Aviators, Military Lawyers, Corporate Leaders, Paramedics, Physicians
From respected departments to military service, med school, and corporate leadership—SMFR members step into high-impact roles with confidence, clarity, and real-world experience that sets them apart. Whether your future is in firefighting, emergency medicine, aviation, or public service, it can all start here.
Our members become
Students become CPR certified, attend EMS lectures, and complete a series of skills sheets. Rookies also conduct interviews with every active member of the unit to build understanding, mentorship, and community. The semester finishes in a "try-out" that includes psychomotor and written tests.
Semester 1
Rookie Class
- Emergency patient care
- Scene management
- Advanced interventions
- Communications
- Crew leadership
Rescue Unit members train on every shift, building skills through hands-on drills, and full-scale scenarios. Trainings include:
Rescue training
Members begin as a "Fourth," assisting with patient care, vitals, oxygen setup, psychological first aid, and other support roles. Once a licensed EMT, "Thirds" taking primary vitals, supporting the Crew Chief, initiating interventions, and directing Fourths. It’s a hands-on, high-growth role.
Next Semesters
Fourth & Third Training
Advanced members progress into leadership roles, leading calls, making treatment decisions, communicating with the hospital, and writing reports. Drivers complete an intensive program of road hours to ensure the safe arrival of crews to scenes and hospitals.
Ongoing
Crew Chief & Driver
Every August, members return early for a multi-day training intensive before the semester begins. "Boot Camp" is led by SMFR alumni who now serve in respected EMS roles around the country. It's equal parts training, tradition, and reunion—a time to sharpen your skills and reconnect with your crew.
Annual
Boot Camp
Riding Positions
Driver
Responsible for safe vehicle operation, scene logistics, and transporting crews and patients. Driver training is rigorous and held to the highest standards.
Crew Chief
AEMT or paramedic leaders responsible for scene management, advanced interventions, hospital communication, and documentation.
Fourth & Third
Hands-on team members certified in CPR or EMT, responsible for assessments, interventions, and patient care.
HS 160 Emergency Medical Technician (4 credits)
Offered every semester with day and evening sections.
HS 260 Advanced EMT (4 credits + 2 optional clinical credits)
For certified EMTs ready for the next level.
HS 140 Wilderness First Responder (4 credits)
For those called to serve in remote settings.
EM 110 SMC Ready: Fire & Life Safety (1 credit)
Open to all students, faculty, and staff. Includes CPR, Stop the Bleed, and fire extinguisher training.
EM 150 A/B Firefighter 1 & 2 (2 and 4 credit options)
Taught in partnership with the Vermont Fire Academy.
EM 499 Emergency Services Internship (2 or 4 credits)
For Fire & Rescue members serving as officers, leading quality improvement, or participating in department leadership.
Emergency Management Series (2 credits each)
EM 101, 102, 201, and 210 — part of the Emergency Management certificate.
Fire and Rescue Courses for Credit
Already certified? You may be eligible for credit based on national certifications, including:
- NREMT (EMT / AEMT)
- ProBoard (Firefighter 1 / 2)
- WFR (Wilderness First Responder)
Learn more about the EMS Minor and Emergency Services Academics at Saint Michael’s College
questions & answers
How much experience do I need to join?
No previous experience is required. Some of our members begin with no EMS background, and we’ll train you every step of the way. You’ll start as a Rookie, gain CPR certification, and move into hands-on training with support from current members and alumni instructors. Many of our members go on to become Advanced EMTs, paramedics, nurses, and healthcare professionals.
Many continue to careers in medicine, aviation, military service, or emergency management. You’ll graduate with confidence, purpose, and real-world skills that set you apart in any career.
Can I join both the Fire and Rescue Units?
Yes, you can do both and some students do. But we’ll be honest: joining both units while being a full-time student is a major commitment. If your goal is to master your craft, grow in leadership, and rise through the ranks, we recommend choosing one and going all-in. That’s where you’ll really shine.
Still unsure? Talk to a current member of Fire or Rescue and hear what their experience has been like. We’re happy to help you choose the right fit based on your interests, capacity, and future goals.
Can I take time off if I study abroad or have an internship?
Yes. We support a full college experience and that includes making time for internships, study abroad, and personal growth. While many students commit fully to Fire & Rescue year-round (including summers and holiday breaks), others take a semester off to travel or do a degree-related internship.
Some students go all-in, becoming drivers, officers, and crew chiefs. Others train hard during their time here, take a semester to explore, and return stronger. Either way, the experience you gain at SMFR will change you and it’ll be one of the most meaningful parts of your time at Saint Mike’s.
What does a typical duty shift look like?
Rescue members are stationed at SMFR for the full duration of their shift. You'll begin by checking your gear, inspecting the ambulance, completing station chores, and attending a crew meeting led by your officer. The meeting covers riding positions, important updates, and anything specific to the shift ahead.
From there, you’re on duty, responding to calls, completing training tasks, cooking meals together, or studying during downtime. Rescue runs 24/7, and being on site is part of what makes the experience so immersive. You’re not just learning in a classroom. You’re living it, alongside teammates who quickly become your second family.
Serving Chittenden County & Saint Michael’s Campus
Exclusively student-run & operated since 1969
Fully operational fire & EMS department
Over 4,000 calls annually
The runsheet:
Or explore the Fire Unit →