Port Jefferson, NY – Last week, Port Jefferson EMS proudly welcomed back one of our support vehicles after it received a fresh, professional repainting, thanks to the talented students and staff at Eastern Suffolk BOCES (ESBOCES).

This project was completed as part of the ESBOCES Auto Body Program under the skilled guidance of Instructor Ryan Degnan. The collaboration not only resulted in a beautifully refinished emergency vehicle but also offered a substantial cost savings to our organization—funds that can now be redirected to better serve our community.

Partnering with educational programs like those at ESBOCES helps bridge the gap between vocational training and real-world experience. Students gain invaluable hands-on learning opportunities, while community organizations like Port Jefferson EMS benefit from high-quality services at minimal cost.

“We’re extremely grateful to ESBOCES and Instructor Degnan for their outstanding work and ongoing support,” said Deputy Chief Michael Presta of Port Jefferson EMS. “This partnership strengthens community ties and supports workforce development while helping us maintain top-quality emergency response equipment.”

The newly repainted van is already back in service, ready to support emergency medical operations throughout the Port Jefferson area.

About Port Jefferson EMS:

Port Jefferson EMS is a combination EMS agency of career and volunteer Paramedics and EMTs providing 24/7/365 advanced life support ambulance service to the communities of Port Jefferson, Belle Terre, and Mount Sinai. For more information on community CPR, medical training, volunteering, or careers in EMS, visit our website at www.pjems.org

About Eastern Suffolk BOCES:

The Eastern Long Island Academy of Applied Technology, referred to as the Academy, is the Career and Technical Education Program of Eastern Suffolk BOCES and has locations in Bellport, Oakdale, and Riverhead. Ward Tech is located on the Riverhead campus.