After interviewing my former supervisor, I noticed that there are a lot of similarities between nursing and EMS. Having to continually take education courses to stay up to date with new evidence and protocols as well as implementing new guidelines to streamline their policies is an ever-changing task. Even though things can be slightly different in the prehospital world we both have the same goal, better patient outcomes. As a leader that has been involved in the community for several years, I was excited to get to know more about his journey.

To start off the interview I was interested to see how he decided to take the leap and take on a leadership position in EMS. I learned that his father, a firefighter, was a huge influence and inspiration to him while growing up and he was the driving force that pushed him to step out of his comfort zone. Aside from his dad being his biggest advocate he mentioned that he was also his biggest supporter through today. I think it’s important for everyone to have a solid support system within the job setting but also at home especially in a tough job like that of a first responder or in the healthcare field where we are privileged to be involved in people’s most vulnerable moments. This way, we are able to tend to our mental health and be able to provide more quality care for our patients. With that being said, I inquired about his work-life balance. He admitted to being a workaholic but insisted that since having his kids he began taking time off to spend more time with them. As a first responder and Operations Supervisor his shifts may vary depending on the needs for that week and can be between 24-72hr shifts. So when having to spend that much time working he makes it worthwhile to turn off his phone and notifications from work when at home to provide his undivided attention to his kids. He also engages in hobbies such as watching sports and being outside and active.

When I asked him what were some of his biggest challenges of being a leader he expressed the ability to learn how to be versatile, being knowledgeable, and learning how to set boundaries with coworkers. As a leader I understand that you have to be a team player and wear many different “hats” in order to help the operation (or unit) run smoothly and provide the best patient care. He elaborated and mentioned that he continues to take education courses as well as management/leadership workshops in the community so that he can be a better resource for his employees. As with nursing, EMS policies, procedures and county protocols continue to evolve and staying current with all of those will help you be a more credible, influential, and trustworthy leader. After interviewing him I realized how emotionally intelligent he was. He possesses so many qualities but I think he is an outstanding leader due to his relationship management skills. While working with him I admired his conflict management skills, how selfless he was and open to be my coach and mentor, as well as how self aware he was at all times, and how adaptable he was during any situation.

All in all, I enjoyed learning about his journey and how he went on to become an EMS Operations Supervisor for one of the busiest cities in California. Similar to his experience, I think that I need to find what inspires and motivates me day in and day out when I become a nurse. Finding and establishing that solid support system will also help me stay sane both while at work and while at home. Finding hobbies that distract me and keep my mind off work is also important. One of the reasons I decided to pursue a career in healthcare was due to the fact that we are always learning something new so staying up to date with the newest evidence based research can help transform how we provide care to our patients. I aspire to be a well-rounded emotionally intelligent leader like him one day.