Where Are They Now: Zachery Ebersold
Where Are They Now?
Meet Zachery Ebersold, Oneida City School District Alumnus, Class of 2013
For Zachery Ebersold, some of his most meaningful memories from his time at OCSD were made alongside friends—on the field, under the Friday night lights, and competing in games at the Dome. He also fondly recalls his involvement in after-school activities such as jazz band and mock trial, experiences that helped shape his high school years and remain close to his heart.
Zachery began his journey in public service at just 16 years old when he joined the Verona Fire Department and earned his EMT certification. Following graduation, he volunteered with Central Oneida County Ambulance and, by age 20, became a New York State AEMT–Critical Care Technician. In 2023, he earned his New York State Paramedic certification through the MVHS Paramedic Program and completed training at the Utica Fire Academy later that same year.
During his time with Central Oneida County Ambulance, Zachery served as a supervisor and gained experience working with several other agencies, including Vineall Ambulance. He continues to serve the community today with Madison County EMS. After eight years with the Verona Fire Department, he relocated and joined the Vienna Fire Department.
Zachery is currently a Firefighter/Paramedic with the Utica Fire Department, continuing his commitment to public safety and service.
To future graduates, he offers this valuable advice: “At some point, life will test you, and things will get hard, whether it is financial hardship, personal health, or family troubles. Remember to stay positive. I’ll give you an example, I had fallen in love with being a firemen and I wanted to do it as a career, but my personal health was in the way. I was dieting and working out, and things didn’t seem like they were getting better, and it was discouraging. But thankfully, I had a friend who kept pushing me to be better and to keep going, and after 2 1/2 years, I had lost 130 pounds, achieved my goal, and became a career fireman. So my advice to future graduates is, no matter how hard life can get, remain positive. There’s always light at the end of the tunnel. And always look out for your friends, family, etc., be that person to cheer them on or be that shoulder to lean on!”
Thank you, Zachery, for being an inspiration to our future graduates! #oneidaproud