Meet-A-Medic: Garner Thompson, Clinical Specialist — Special Operations
My name is Garner Thompson, I am a Clinical Specialist at ATCEMS working in the Special Operations Division. I work as a Rescue Paramedic on the Special Operations Rescue Unit, and previously worked on the LakeMed Unit as a Paramedic/Rescue Swimmer working alongside the Austin Police Department Lake Patrol Unit. I have been with ATCEMS since 2016, I started my career here as an EMT-B and later went to Paramedic school through the department hosted program. When I am not at work you will most likely find me enjoying the outdoors with my family.
Where are you from originally and what brought you to Austin?
I am originally from Paso Robles, CA and moved to Austin in 2014.
What inspired you to become a medic/What attracted you to this career choice?
I always wanted a career that would offer me the opportunity to serve others, but I wasn’t sure exactly what field I wanted to go into. I took an EMT class in 2015, sort of on a whim, but quickly realized that I had a particular interest in medicine, so I decided to pursue EMS as a career.
How long have you been with ATCEMS and what motivated you to work here?
After completing my EMT in 2015, I started with ATCEMS in 2016. I had been drawn to ATCEMS by all of the specialty units and programs that we have here, specifically the Rescue unit.
What is your favorite part about working here at ATCEMS?
Working in Special Operations Rescue has been the greatest pleasure of my career with ATCEMS. I’ve had opportunities to do some incredible things that are not available anywhere else in the EMS career field. I get to train and work in a multitude of disciplines of technical rescue; including high angle rope rescue, swiftwater rescue, caves/confined space, and so much more. My teammates in Spec-Ops Rescue are some of the best people and most high-speed paramedics that I’ve ever worked with and make the job truly enjoyable.
If you had guests visiting Austin for the weekend, where is the first place you would take them?
If guests are visiting Austin for the first time I would take them down to see the capitol to take in some Texas history. Aside from that, we would eat some good food and spend most of our time enjoying all of the outdoor activities that Central Texas has to offer. If it’s summertime in Texas I always want to be in the water, and a float down the Comal or San Marcos makes for a great day.
What is your favorite taco or BBQ joint in town?
Cooper’s or Terry Black’s for the best meats, but I would say Stiles Switch has some of the best sides. And it might sound crazy but Rudy’s is always top notch!
What do you do on your days off to relax and unwind?
I love spending time outside with my wife and son. Hikes in the greenbelt, swimming and enjoying all of the water in central Texas are some of our favorite activities. I also am a private pilot and enjoy flying around and exploring the great State of Texas.
Who inspires you?
My grandfather was my greatest role model and inspired me to be driven and always serve others. I am inspired by my teammates who put the work in every day and push me to do better.
What is the next place you would like to visit? Why?
Anywhere with nice weather, cool water and good food.
Word of advice for an aspiring medic?
Work hard. Always have a new goal to be chasing, whether it is work related or personal. Get uncomfortable and do hard things every day. Take care of your teammates. Have a passion outside of work to help you reset and recover.
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.
Follow us on all social media channels, and don’t forget to fill out a connect profile.
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*
