Meet-A-Medic: Ross Copland, Clinical Specialist — Field
I’m Ross Copland and work as a Paramedic in downtown Austin. I was a fire-fighter EMT for 5 years prior to starting my career here in Austin. I have 2 fluffy dogs and an amazing wife whom I met while going through the academy process. I enjoy wake surfing, riding horses, and working in my veggie garden.
Where are you from originally and what brought you to Austin?
I’m originally from Johannesburg, South Africa and moved to Austin to work for Austin EMS.
What inspired you to become a medic/What attracted you to this career choice?
I was working as a firefighter/EMT-B in King County, Washington and wanted to take the next step in becoming an advanced provider after seeing what an impact paramedics made on patient outcomes.
How long have you been with ATCEMS and what motivated you to work here?
I have been with the department for nearly 3.5 years. I was drawn to the diverse work opportunities within the department (tactical team, CHP, rescue team, etc…) and the progressive medical direction focused on outcome-based medicine.
What is your favorite part about working here at ATCEMS?
Working downtown with some high-speed medics who are enthusiastic about their job and love to have fun while doing it
If you had guests visiting Austin for the weekend, where is the first place you would take them?
Anywhere outside, but you can’t beat Lake Austin!
What is your favorite taco joint in town?
Torchy’s
What do you do on your days to relax and unwind?
Workout, spend time in our home vegetable garden, and wake surf on the lake.
Who inspires you?
My mom- her work ethic is unbeatable and she always puts others first.
What is the next place you would like to visit? Why?
Croatia for the beautiful beaches, architecture, and food!
Word of advice for an aspiring medic?
As long as you have a good attitude and are willing and eager to learn, we’d love to have you! Remember, you’ll never stop learning in this profession.
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*
