ATCEMS Medics and the Inspiration to Pursue Paramedicine
Paramedicine is the totality of the roles and responsibilities of individuals trained and credentialed as EMS practitioners. ATCEMS is comprised of nearly 500 practitioners, making up a dynamic and progressive EMS system in one of the liveliest cities in the nation. This isn’t an easy career choice for these 500 medics. The inspiration and motivation to be in EMS is unique to each and every one them. The hours are long, the calls are frequent, sacrifices are made often. Nonetheless, men and women from all different walks of life have chosen to not only pursue this career, but to work as a public servant and provide high quality, compassionate care to the citizens of Austin. Let’s learn more about what has inspired some of ATCEMS’ medics to live the life of a first responder.
I’ve been interested in public safety and public service since childhood. My mom grew up in a culture where women are given less opportunities and less respect than other people. I chose this career to break those stigmas, and be a unique, positive role model for the community. — N.Ferdous, Medic I-Communications
I spent my high school years volunteering in the Parkland ER and always wanted to practice medicine. I graduated from High School with plans of going to college and then on to Medical School. I got my undergraduate degree from Boston University where I studied Molecular Biology and Biochemistry. During my studies I was diagnosed with cancer. This was a life changing event for me and impacted my ability to continue in school. I found EMS through a medic that was studying Chemistry with me and I fell in love with it. It has been incredibly rewarding and I did not have to take years in school before being able to practice medicine. — J.Gilliam, Captain-Designated Medical Officer
My father was an army medic and some of his stories inspired me. Aside from the medical aspect of this career, I also like the fact that we actually help people at what may be the worst time in their lives. Not every call is going to be an awful trauma, but if I could just be a bright spot in someone’s day, then that makes me happy! — K.Phillips, Medic II-Field Operations
Like most of us, I became a medic so I could help people. I enjoy being able to help bring calm and control to an event that is often chaotic and frightening. — K.Larose, Medic II-Communications
When I was in high school I was trying to figure out my career path. I had a family friend that worked for ATCEMS that took me on a ride-out with him and I was hooked. Working as a medic had everything that I was looking for in a career. I wanted to work in the medical field but I didn’t want to be stuck in a building all day long. Being a medic appealed to me because of the high speed environment in which you get to practice medicine. The unpredictability of your shift is engaging, as you never know where you will being going or what you will be doing on any given day. This spontaneity is what keeps the job fun and interesting. — C.Johnson, Medic I-Field Operations
Being able to see the difference you can make. When someone dials 9–1–1 most of the time it is the worst day of their life. The majority of the public might only dial 9–1–1 once in a lifetime. Every single day I have the ability to impact the lives of the citizens we serve. That’s what attracts me to this career. — T.Green, Medic II-Communications
In 1993, I decided to join the US Air Force Reserve and was a Medical Service Specialist (M.S.S.). Among other clinical aspects of the program, it included the National Registry EMT-B and I instantly loved it and knew that that was what I wanted to do. — S.Cheeks, Medic II-Field Operations
What led you to this career choice? What keeps you inspired? If you’re looking for refreshed motivation, learn more about our medics and their stores in our “Meet-A-Medic” series. In the meantime, share your inspiration in the comments section below.
Thank you to all the men and women who serve as first responders, not only in Austin, but across the nation. You are appreciated and valued!
Interested in a career with ATCEMS? Contact our Recruiting team at EMSRecruiting@austintexas.gov or give us a call at 512–974–1098. You can find dates for the hiring process elements here.
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This publication features ATCEMS work culture and the lives of our medics. *Readings from other publications posted to Medium do not necessarily reflect the views or position of Austin-Travis County EMS, the City of Austin, or Travis County*
