Flight Paramedic

Becoming a Maryland Department of State Police (MDSP) Trooper/Flight Paramedic is a unique dual-role career that combines high-stakes law enforcement with advanced aeromedical critical care. Unlike many civilian flight programs, every flight paramedic in the Maryland State Police Aviation Command is a sworn State Trooper. 

Become a State Trooper 

The most critical part of the process is first becoming a Maryland State Trooper. You cannot apply directly to the Aviation Command as a civilian; you must follow these steps:

1. Academy Training: Complete the rigorous 26-week residential State Police Academy to become a sworn law enforcement officer.
2. Field Experience: Upon graduation, you are assigned to a road patrol barrack to complete Field training.
3. Transfer Request: After gaining experience as a Trooper on the road, you may submit a request to transfer into the Aviation Command when vacancies occur.

Clinical Requirements

In addition to meeting the basic Trooper qualifications, aspiring flight medics must possess:

• Certifications: National Registry Paramedic and Maryland Paramedic certification (or eligibility for reciprocity). A Flight Paramedic Certification or Critical Care Paramedic Certification is recommended.
• Experience: At least 2–3 years of high-volume ALS field EMS experience, with a focus on serious trauma and difficult airway management.
• Advanced Skills: Proficiency in critical procedures such as Rapid Sequence Intubation (RSI), surgical cricothyrotomy, and needle chest decompression.
• Rotor wing flight experience (Recommended)

Become a Flight Paramedic

Once you meet all the requirements, qualifications and Academy training, you'll become a part of a four-person crew (two pilots, two paramedics) performing medevac, search and rescue, and law enforcement missions. The MDSP Aviation Command is a globally recognized for its standard of care and "all-weather" mission capabilities.

Benefits include a take-home patrol car, 12-hour shifts once assigned to aviation, and the ability to earn an Associate’s Degree at no cost during the Academy.