New Paramedics Welcomed to Essex-Windsor EMS

Ten paramedics were formally welcomed to Essex-Windsor EMS during a ceremony at the Essex County Civic Centre on Monday.

“Be proud of the work you have done to get this far and know that you are prepared and equipped for the challenges yet to come,” Chief Justin Lammers told them. “You are exceptional recruits and you are joining an exceptional team. We are honoured and excited to welcome you to the ranks of Essex-Windsor EMS.”

The commencement ceremony was held immediately after the recently hired paramedics completed extensive screening and a lengthy orientation. During the ceremony, the paramedics were presented with certificates for completing the orientation, as well as their service coins and epaulettes.

They were also welcomed to the County of Essex staff by CAO Sandra Zwiers, who talked about the range of services provided by the County.

“You don’t need to know all of this to do your jobs, of course, but it’s important for you to know that you are not alone, that you are an essential part of larger public service organization that champions the interests of the residents of this region,” Zwiers told them.

James Jovanovic, president of CUPE Local 2974, which represents Essex-Windsor EMS paramedics, thanked the new recruits for choosing the service and told them they represent hope for the future.

“In assuming your position with Essex-Windsor EMS, you accepted a role as a leader – one that our community will look up to for many years,” Professional Standards Captain Larry Trpkovski told them.

Of the paramedics being welcomed, advanced care paramedic Christina O’Neill, and primary care paramedics Jake Bailey, Francois Bernatchez, Christopher Chiesa, Tyler Glenn and Stephen Smith attended the ceremony. Primary care paramedics Arthur Albrecht, Adam Belisle, Jordan Lessard and Francesco Lo Iacono were not able to attend.