International Women’s Day is a chance to celebrate the women of Associated Ambulance who bring skill, compassion, and quiet strength to every call. This year, we interviewed Leas, Kaitlin, Brittney, Nadine, and Grace, whose stories show how competence, courage, and care are moving paramedicine forward every day.
What first sparked your interest in becoming a paramedic, and what keeps you passionate about the work today?
Leas:
“I was initially drawn to paramedicine because it combines science, critical thinking, and human connection in a very real and immediate way. There’s something powerful about being invited into someone’s worst moment and having the knowledge and skills to make a difference.
What keeps me passionate today is watching growth in patients, in students, and in colleagues. As my role has evolved into clinical education, I’ve found just as much fulfillment in mentoring and building strong clinicians as I did in responding to calls. Seeing confidence develop and knowing that translates into better patient care is incredibly rewarding.”
Kaitlin:
“I was initially drawn to the autonomy and clinical independence that comes with paramedicine. What continues to motivate me is the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives – even when that difference is small. I’m also continually inspired by new paramedics entering the profession. Their enthusiasm and curiosity are a daily reminder of how rewarding this career is.”
Brittney:
“When I was ten, someone very close to me survived a life-threatening crisis. I wasn’t there when it happened, but I experienced the aftermath, and it had a profound impact on me. As I grew older, I came to understand how critical the emergency responders were in that situation — not only in providing medical care, but in giving my family reassurance during an incredibly overwhelming time.
That experience opened my eyes to how interconnected physical and mental health can be, and how important it is to approach patients with both clinical skills and compassion. It’s what first sparked my interest in paramedicine.
What keeps me passionate today is knowing that many patients aren’t just facing a medical emergency — they’re often facing one of the hardest moments of their lives. Being able to provide competent care while also treating people with dignity and understanding is something I take very seriously.”
Nadine:
“The reason I am in EMS was working at Canadian Tire customer service, a man came in with a defective doorknob and when I could not return it for him he screamed at me and threw it at me…… there was 2 EMS humans standing behind him, when he left they told me I kept my cool easily and maybe I should consider getting into this industry… they said “at least you won’t get stuff thrown at you”, that summer I coached fast ball and my assistant coach was none other than the Johnny Bly, he convinced me it was a great plan, he taught at NAIT and had me register for school…. the rest is history… other than if I find those people I might remind them I have had a LOT worse than a doorknob thrown at me!”
Grace:
“Seeing the level of care and compassion from the healthcare professionals. The times I or a family member went to the hospital or needed the help of paramedics; they were always kind and thoughtful during their work. I strive to be aware and compassionate with everyone I help, because we never know when and who will be there during those vulnerable moments.”
Can you share a call or moment in your career that reminded you why you chose this profession?
Leas:
“There are many, but the ones that stay with me are often not the dramatic saves; they’re the human moments. A calm conversation with a scared patient. Supporting a family through a difficult decision. Or seeing a crew work seamlessly during a high-acuity call and knowing everyone rose to the occasion.
Those moments remind me that paramedicine is about competence and compassion working together.”
Kaitlin:
“It’s difficult to identify a single call because almost every patient interaction reinforces why I chose this profession. Regardless of acuity, there is always an opportunity to provide care, reassurance, or support during a vulnerable moment. Personally, I often find the greatest reward in quieter calls. When someone simply needs compassion, presence, or reassurance. Those moments highlight the privilege and responsibility of being a paramedic.”
Brittney:
“One call that’s always stuck with me was a serious car accident involving a young patient who was critically injured. It took us a long time to get him out of the vehicle, and the whole scene was intense.
When we finally got him out, even with everything he had going on, he kept apologizing to us for being heavy and for making us carry him. I remember telling him that was the least of our concerns, but it stuck with me. In the middle of one of the worst moments of his life, he was worried about being a burden.
I later found out he didn’t survive. What I’ve carried with me from that call isn’t just the severity of it — it’s that reminder of how vulnerable people are in those moments. It reinforced me that this job isn’t just about skills and protocols. It’s about how we treat people when they’re scared and hurting.
That call reminded me why I chose this profession — to show up for people in those moments and make sure they feel cared for, not like a problem.”
Nadine:
“There is probably a call a week that reminds me why. And for all different reasons. When someone is just so thankful we can explain things better cause we have some time, when family members get the bridge of information and you can see the lights return to their eyes, palliative care patients with the ability to stay home thanks to ambulances. And this is just the tip of the iceberg”
Grace:
“Every call to help someone who fell and can’t get back up. They are in a vulnerable state at the expense of their dignity, and it’s our job to make them feel comfortable and cared for. A call in the early stages of my career that remind me of this was an elderly woman who fell after attempting to sit on the toilet. She felt the urge to have a bowel movement but, when attempting to get on the toilet again, she fell and had her bowel movement on the floor. In her filth, my partner and I helped her up on to a chair and cleaned her up before heading to the ambulance. It was our job to help her feel as comfortable as possible during what could be a humiliating experience.”
How have you seen the role of women in emergency medical services change over time?
Leas:
“The profession has grown significantly in terms of representation, leadership, and visibility of women in EMS. Women are now leading services, shaping policy, teaching, conducting research, and driving clinical innovation.
There’s also been a shift in culture toward inclusivity, psychological safety, and recognizing that strength in this profession comes in many forms, not just physical presence.”
Kaitlin:
“I have seen a clear and encouraging increase in representation, leadership, and influence of women within EMS. More women are entering advanced clinical roles, education, and leadership positions. The culture continues to move toward greater inclusion, support, and recognition of diverse perspectives, which ultimately strengthens patient care and team dynamics.”
Brittney:
“EMS has traditionally been a male-dominated field, but over time I’ve seen a real shift. There are more women entering the profession, and not just in entry-level roles — in leadership, training, and command positions as well.
Some of the strongest leaders I’ve worked with have been women. They bring clinical excellence, emotional intelligence, and strong communication skills to the job. I think the culture has evolved to focus more on competence and teamwork rather than gender.
It’s encouraging to see the profession becoming more representative and inclusive. Ultimately, what matters in EMS is capability, professionalism, and how well you care for your patients — and I think the increasing presence of women has strengthened the field as a whole.”
Nadine:
“I feel like we are starting to dominate! I used to come to work and be one of the only females on! And one case I was the only female in the WHOLE company. Now I see more and more that it’s dual females in the ambulance”
Grace:
“I am proud to say that more and more women are getting into EMS. More women are going for further education, fully engaging in their work and realizing their potential. I hope that more women will continue to feel compelled to offer their talents and care in this field.”
What unique strengths do women bring to EMS and patient care?
Leas:
“Women bring diverse strengths, emotional intelligence, communication skills, adaptability, and strong collaborative leadership styles. These are incredibly valuable in de-escalation, patient advocacy, mentorship, and team dynamics.
That said, excellence in paramedicine isn’t gender-specific. It’s about competence, character, and compassion. Women contribute meaningfully because of their expertise and professionalism.”
Kaitlin:
“Women often bring a strong capacity for empathy, communication, and relational understanding to patient care. Many women have navigated adversity in different forms, and that lived experience can enhance our ability to connect with patients during difficult circumstances. This perspective supports compassionate, patient-centered care and helps build trust in high-stress situations.”
Brittney:
“I think women have brought incredible strength to EMS — and not just physically, but in leadership, communication, and patient advocacy. As more women have entered the field, we’ve proven over and over that we’re just as capable in high-acuity, physically demanding environments.
Many women in EMS bring strong emotional intelligence, adaptability, and the ability to quickly build trust with patients. That can make a huge difference, especially in situations involving trauma, pediatrics, or mental health crises. Patients often open up in ways that directly impact their care.
I’ve also seen women step into leadership roles and change the culture of crews — promoting teamwork, accountability, and professionalism. It’s empowering to be part of a profession where women continue to break stereotypes and raise the standard.
At the end of the day, EMS is stronger because women are in it — not to replace anyone, but to elevate the field as a whole.”
Nadine:
“Patience. Empathy. Strength. Determination. The ability to multitask like no one’s business.”
Grace:
“Women bring their experience, whether it be from being a mother, a daughter, a friend, or previous work opportunities. Women show up and give their hearts when helping others. Our instinct to care for others is the characteristic needed in this field, along with resilience and strong communication.”
Have you faced any challenges as a woman in this field? How did you navigate them?
Leas:
“Like many women in traditionally male-dominated fields, there can be moments when you feel you need to prove yourself, whether clinically, physically, or in leadership roles.
I navigated those challenges by focusing on preparation, consistency, and professionalism. Knowledge builds confidence. Strong communication builds respect. Over time, your work speaks for itself.”
Kaitlin:
“While EMS has made significant progress, I have occasionally felt a need to prove my competence. Particularly when assumptions are made about roles or scope based on gender. Patients and other providers may initially direct questions to my male partners or assume they holds the higher clinical authority. I navigate these situations primarily through professional presence and performance rather than confrontation. Demonstrating competence, leadership, and confidence helps challenge assumptions and gradually shift expectations.”
Brittney:
“Yes, there have been moments where I’ve been underestimated because I’m a woman. It’s not uncommon for patients to ask, ‘Where are the men?’ or say, ‘You can’t lift me, you’re just a girl.’
I don’t take it personally. Instead, I usually respond with something light like, ‘We’re stronger than we look,’ and then we just do the job. Once they see us safely move them or handle the call confidently, their concerns usually disappear.
For me, it’s always about maintaining professionalism and focusing on patient care rather than proving a point. I’ve learned that competence speaks for itself. Over time, those moments have reinforced my confidence in my abilities and the importance of teamwork, proper lifting techniques, and staying calm under pressure.”
Nadine:
“There have been many, but my favorite one was working with Corey Mitchell. We picked up an older gentleman who when Corey got into the back and I started to close the doors he said with pure fear… WAIT!!!!! You are going to let a WOMAN drive??!!?? No no no! Please! Get her back! Women are for caring NOT driving AND it’s DARK out. How will she see it?!? Corey and I looked at each other and probably laughed harder than we should have…. and I drove him to the hospital.”
Grace:
“Being kind is sometimes mistakenly seen as an opportunity for unprofessional conversation. I remind the patient that my goal is to help them and make them the center of my attention.”
6) Is there a mentor, partner, or colleague who has had a strong impact on your career? What did you learn from them?
Leas:
“I’ve been fortunate to work alongside leaders and colleagues who value high standards and integrity. From them, I learned that clinical excellence and kindness are not mutually exclusive. You can hold people accountable and still support them.
I’ve also learned that strong leaders create other strong leaders and that mentorship is one of the most important responsibilities we carry in this profession.”
Kaitlin:
“Early in my career, I worked with a mentor named Allisa who had a profound impact on my development. She demonstrated clinical excellence, confidence, and strong advocacy for both patients and paramedics. Over time, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside her in multiple roles and witnessing her leadership in action. She exemplifies professionalism, integrity, and commitment to advancing paramedicine.
More broadly, every woman I encounter in healthcare, from EMRs to physicians, and everyone in between has influenced my career. There is a shared sense of respect and solidarity that continues to shape my growth and perspective.”
Brittney:
“One of the biggest influences on my career was the manager I worked closely with for the first seven years I started in this field. She taught me a lot, not just about the technical side of the job, but about how to grow as a professional and as a person.
She encouraged me to push past my own boundaries, challenge myself every day, and consistently perform at a level higher than what people expect — while still staying humble and kind. She also helped me understand that there will always be random tough days, but what really matters is how you handle them.
One of the most important lessons she passed on was the value of building a strong community. Having a supportive team, inside and outside of work, makes a massive difference in maintaining resilience, learning, and being the best you can for your patients.”
Nadine:
“Johnny Bly. Got me in this career and has been an instructor at the school I choose every step I have taken, even ACP that took me 12 years to go get. He still teaches me; last stars event he taught me how to make Ketamine actually work as he has an old school brain like me
Corey Mitchell. My first long term partner after becoming an ACP. I learned to trust myself.
Joey Manson. To have compassion in this career. To let the water roll right off the duck back and most important to have fun.”
Grace:
“The partner I have worked with for the past year has had a great impact on the goals I have as a practitioner. His passion for his work extends to the wealth of knowledge he continues to pursue as well as his nurturing character while helping patients. The short time I’ve worked with him has taught me much more than school ever could.”
How do you maintain resilience and balance while working in such a high-pressure environment?
Leas:
“Resilience isn’t about being unaffected; it’s about processing experiences in healthy ways. Debriefing, maintaining supportive peer relationships, investing in family life, and setting boundaries are essential.
I also remind myself that we are part of a team. No one carries this work alone. Culture matters and building supportive systems within a service is key to long-term sustainability.”
Kaitlin:
“I focus on identifying meaning in each patient interaction, even when calls are challenging. Reflecting on the impact of our presence and care helps maintain perspective. I also remind myself that it is a privilege to serve in this role. That mindset supports resilience and allows me to carry forward lessons from each call in a constructive way.”
Brittney:
“For me, I think resilience comes from leaning on a crew you trust and a support system outside of work. It’s also about self-care — taking time for hobbies or activities that recharge you. For me, spending time with animals and working on woodworking projects helps me decompress. Those moments let me step away, recharge, and come back focused so I can show up fully for my patients and my team.”
Nadine:
“My kids.”
Grace:
“As a Christian, I turn to the Lord for peace and understanding at all times, but especially after calls that weigh on my mental health. In this, I can always turn to my supportive family and friends for advice and to lend an ear. I have also been blessed with a calm disposition to be able to keep a level head during those high stress situations, to look back on my knowledge and experience during those stressful calls.”
What advice would you give to young women considering a career in paramedicine or emergency services?
Leas:
“If you’re considering this career, know that you absolutely belong here. Prepare well. Build your knowledge base. Seek mentors. Ask questions. Stay humble and stay curious.
This profession will challenge you, but it will also shape you in powerful ways. If you are motivated by helping others and committed to continuous growth, paramedicine can be an incredibly meaningful path.”
Kaitlin:
“Pursue it with confidence. Paramedicine is strengthened by diverse voices and perspectives, and there is a strong community of women ready to support, mentor, and advocate for you.”
Brittney:
“My advice to young women considering a career in paramedicine or emergency services would be to always keep learning. There will be days when you’re challenged just for being who you are, but those moments don’t last — what matters is how you handle them.
Build a strong community, both inside and outside of work, because having people you can rely on makes a huge difference. Take care of your mental health — it really does matter. Be confident that you can do this work but also stay humble. You don’t know it all, and you never will, so ask questions, listen to others, and learn from every experience.
And finally, listen to your patients. Ask them questions, hear their stories, and take the time to understand them. You’ll learn so much personally and professionally from the people you care for, and those lessons will stay with you throughout your career.”
Nadine:
“Have a plan for having kids. Shift work is hard on mothers and hard on their babies.”
Grace:
“Know that you are competent and can do anything you set your mind to. Stand your ground in your convictions as there will be many things (and people) trying to sway your decisions.”
How have you watched Associated Ambulance evolve over the years?
Leas:
“Associated Ambulance has grown not only operationally, but culturally and clinically. There has been a strong emphasis on quality improvement, education, and professional development. The commitment to structured training, mentorship, and evidence-based practice has strengthened the service significantly.
Watching the evolution toward more formalized clinical governance, continuing education, and performance recognition has been inspiring. It reflects a service that values excellence and invests in its people.”
Kaitlin:
“In recent years, I have observed a clear evolution in our organization’s focus on education, culture, and team cohesion. Associated has established dedicated support roles, enhanced educational opportunities, and implemented initiatives that foster a more inclusive environment where staff feel supported, respected, and engaged.”
Brittney:
“I’ve watched Associated Ambulance grow and evolve in a lot of ways over the years. The company has expanded with more stations and employees, strengthened leadership at every level, and continuously updated equipment and practices to stay at the forefront of patient care.
Despite all this growth, they’ve managed to maintain a family-based culture that sets them apart from other services in the province. I’ve also seen a real focus on recognizing and supporting diversity within the company and striving for equality in every area.
It’s been inspiring to see a company adapt and expand while staying true to its values and creating an environment where both patients and employees feel supported.”
Nadine:
“We have gone from mom and pop where we all knew Terry. We knew the whole family really. Everyone had been out to the farm at one point or another. I had left the company to go to a bigger company and found out right away that working where someone knows your name is better than being a number on the wall. I feel that we have grown immensely and although we are not the same mom and pop and the world knows Terry and Faith, we still have the people who know your name. You have the people who still reach out when your mom dies; we are never just a number! Even with 600 employees. I love that about this company and it’s why I have been here for 24 years minus 4 years of going to school and trying out the other company.”
Grace:
“Although I’ve only been in this job for the last year, Associated Ambulance and the members have continued to prioritized inclusion and making sure their employees feel heard and do their best to support our needs.”
