ST GEORGE and the Sutherland Shire will welcome new paramedics with three trainees set to join local NSW Ambulance stations.
Gavin Bates and Jody Fardell will join Caringbah station while Erica McKechnie will start at Hurstville station.
Ms Fardell said she was inspired to join after working for NSW Health in Orange.
"It's going to be great to get out on the road, learn new skills, meet new people and explore different areas while conducting my training," she said.
Ms McKechnie also comes from a health background having worked in health roles both in Australia and in her native Brazil.
"'I'm looking forward to making a difference in someone's life — from just being able to comfort them when they are in need to saving someone's life. It will be very satisfying," she said.
It was a complete career change that attracted Mr Bates who previously worked as a carpenter and a TAFE teacher.
"I'm really looking forward to getting out and putting my skills into practice," he said.
The trio are part of the trainee paramedic training pathway which includes three-year on-the-job training and a diploma of paramedical science.
NSW Ambulance Commissioner David Dutton this week presented the new trainees with their NSW Ambulance hat badges.
"These recruits are all about to embark upon a highly diverse and rewarding career path," he said.
"Paramedics are one of the health system's greatest assets and are vital for delivering effective out-of-hospital care."