JEMS Spotlight: How Memphis Fire Department Cracked the Code on Recruitment and Retention

JEMS Spotlight: How Memphis Fire Department Cracked the Code on Recruitment and Retention Memphis (TN) Fire Medic Stephen Zachar breaks down how his department tackled the nationwide recruitment crisis in firefighting and EMS. Moving past outdated hiring tests, Memphis revamped the entire process by prioritizing interviews, valuing real-world experience, and replacing the traditional Candidate Physical Ability Test with a coachable physical fitness matrix. Stephen reveals how placing paramedics strategically across all units, not just ambulances, slashed burnout and boosted job satisfaction. Their innovative approach cut paramedic attrition by 60% and achieved a remarkable 75% retention rate overall. With over 800 hires from 40 states, Memphis offers a blueprint focused on respect, career growth, and financial literacy from day one.