Meet-A-Medic: Patrick Jacobsen, Clinical Specialist — Special Operations (Rescue)
I’m Patrick Jacobsen. I am a Clinical Specialist currently assigned to the Special Operations-Rescue team. I moved here from Washington State. I got my paramedic in spring of 2011 and was hired with the city that summer. When I’m not at work, I’m usually working on a project at home or enjoying the outdoors.
Where are you from originally and what brought you to Austin?
Originally from a little town in eastern Washington near the Idaho panhandle. I moved in 2005 looking for adventure and decided to stay.
What inspired you to become a medic/What attracted you to this career choice?
Honestly, I never really enjoyed the traditional education model. EMS has a nice blend of theory and practice. Now that I’ve been a paramedic for a few years, I really enjoy our schedule and autonomy.
How long have you been with ATCEMS and what motivated you to work here?
I have been with Austin-Travis County EMS for nine years and the last six of them have been assigned to EMS Special Operations-Rescue. Like many of my coworkers, we had heard or read that ATCEMS was a front runner in EMS with chances to improve our own clinical performance, promote through the ranks or specialize in disciplines such as rescue, tactical and community health.
What is your favorite part about working here at ATCEMS?
The best part about working at ATCEMS is working and training with EMS Spec-Ops and the motorcycle division. I’m assigned to a rescue ambulance in my day-to-day, but when large special events envelope the city or the Circuit of the Americas I’m assigned to a motorcycle, providing rapid response and ALS care.
If you had guests visiting Austin for the weekend, where is the first place you would take them?
I would likely take visitors to the Texas Capitol, then to the Texas Chili Parlor, followed by Deep Eddy Pool, Mount Bonnell or the green belt — avoiding 6th street at all costs.
What is your favorite taco joint in town?
The Taco-Mex off of Manor Road — it’s nom.
What do you do on your days off to relax and unwind?
You can usually find me mountain biking, running, hiking or dirt biking.
Who inspires you?
Liv Tyler from 9–1–1: Lone Star. I kid, I kid. My wife and family who continually support me and encourage personal and professional growth inspire me. But seriously…Liv.
What is the next place you would like to visit? Why?
Vietnam, Iceland, Argentina, and more — I like to travel.
Word of advice for an aspiring medic?
Be nice.
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*
