This Remembrance Day, we honor the brave men and women who have served our country and continue to serve in new ways. At Associated Ambulance, we believe in welcoming individuals from all backgrounds, including those with military experience, who bring invaluable skills and dedication to paramedicine. Military-trained paramedics bring not only technical skills but also qualities like resilience, teamwork, and an unyielding dedication to helping others—qualities that lie at the heart of both military and emergency medical service.
Two of these inspiring people, Chi Middleton and Brendan Collins, share their journeys from military service to life-saving careers in EMS.
Chi Middleton
Chi’s journey into paramedicine is a story of passion and purpose. Inspired by her brother’s enlistment, Chi felt a calling to join the military, and in 2016, she enlisted as a Medical Technician. Through challenging field experiences and high-stress scenarios, Chi honed her skills, learning to stay calm and decisive under pressure. She later recognized how her military training could prepare her for a future in civilian healthcare. After moving to Edmonton and volunteering with St. John Ambulance, her passion for health services deepened, and she discovered that paramedicine could combine her love for science, healthcare, and community service.
Chi reflects, “Military has given me skills in maintaining composure and making quick decisions under stress. It also gave me a stepping stone to medical training, it provided me with a solid foundation for furthering my education."
Today, as a paramedic with Associated Ambulance, Chi continues her journey of service, bringing her knowledge and dedication to those in need within her community.
Brendan Collins
Brendan Collins served 19 years in the military, holding roles that ranged from search and rescue to providing essential care in high-risk environments. After years of dedicated service, Brendan transitioned to paramedicine, seeking a role that would allow him to stay closer to his family in Cold Lake. He joined Associated Ambulance, a place he knew had a strong reputation for its quality care and commitment to community, and is currently working to complete the Advanced Care Paramedic (ACP) program.
“I transitioned from the military after 19 years of service to remain with family and continue with my ACP education ... it was an easy choice to apply."
Brendan’s extensive experience in coordinating life-saving missions and providing emergency medical care has made him a reliable and skilled paramedic, committed to making a difference.
Honouring Their Service
Chi and Brendan’s stories highlight the resilience, commitment, and compassion that veterans bring to their roles in paramedicine. This Remembrance Day, we honor all those who have served and the ways they continue to give back to their communities in civilian roles. Their journeys remind us of the strength and dedication required to serve, both in uniform and beyond.
