Three Paramedics in Northern Alberta

Different paths. Shared mission. Real impact.

Behind every siren and every life-saving response, there’s a team of highly trained paramedics working with purpose, precision and heart.

In Alberta’s Peace Region, Emergency Medical Services (EMS) professionals like Alissa Bremmer, Mark Kirby and Marlee Kamieniecki can attest that working in rural EMS isn’t just a career—it’s a calling. Employed by Alberta Health Services (AHS), these local heroes are supported and empowered to make a difference every day.

For many, launching a meaningful career means leaving town, but for Marlee Kamieniecki—who was raised near Peace River—EMS opened a door right in her backyard.

“I’ve lived here my whole life,” said Primary Care Paramedic Kamieniecki. “It’s rewarding on its own to help people, but being able to give back to your community, to serve the place that shaped you, that’s something really special.”

As one of the largest employers in the region, AHS provides options for their paramedics, so they can live where they love while pursuing long-term careers.

Marlee Kamieniecki, Primary Care Paramedic

“I didn’t have to leave my home,” said Kamieniecki. “There’s flexibility and room to grow without uprooting your life.”

Alissa Bremmer came to the Peace Region from New Brunswick to chase a very specific goal: flight paramedicine. She is now an Advanced Care Paramedic and an acting qualified supervisor.

“I came here specifically to fly air ambulance, and that’s exactly what I got to do.”

While Bremmer has since transitioned to ground EMS, her passion for the job remains. In fact, it continues to grow.

“Our scope is huge,” said Bremmer. “We’re trained to do advanced life support, to intubate and administer advanced medications. Most people have no idea just how much we’re capable of in the field.”

Bremmer says paramedics work collaboratively with physicians and nurses as part of the care team, helping to coordinate critical care and making life-saving decisions for their patients in real time.

“We’re autonomous and trusted to act fast,” said Bremmer. “That’s what I love: being the one who brings the chaos back into control.”

Though EMS team members deal with high stakes situations, the management at AHS ensures its people are cared for—both on and off shift. Paramedics are supported with hands-on training, leadership development, health and wellness resources and access to a wide variety of learning tools.

Mark Kirby, Clinical Operations Supervisor

“AHS has backed me at every stage of my career,” said Clinical Operations Supervisor Mark Kirby, who oversees a dozen northern communities. “From leadership mentorship to crisis support, they provide the tools you need to succeed and grow.”

AHS EMS North Zone is excited to announce the upcoming launch of our new EMS Cadet Program, a recruitment initiative designed to inspire and support the next generation of paramedics from local rural communities.

This innovative program is aimed at residents of rural communities who are interested in pursuing a career in EMS. Selected candidates will have the unique opportunity to receive on-the-job mentorship from experienced frontline paramedics, while completing their Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) training.

To support our EMS Cadets in their educational journey, tuition funding for the EMR program will be available to successful candidates.

“We’re hiring from within the community and training people right here,” said Kirby. “It gives local people a path into EMS and helps us strengthen our own workforce from the ground up.”

In an industry known for long hours and emotional intensity, working close to home makes a difference. Bremmer works 12-hour shifts and says being rooted in the Peace Region is the reason she can stay present—for both her patients and her family.

Alissa Bremmer, Advanced Care Paramedic

“I come home every night,” said Bremmer. “If my kid has a baseball game, I can be there. That work-life balance is everything.”

Even for newer team members like Kamieniecki, the connection to place is powerful.

“You’re surrounded by people who share the same desire to serve,” said Kamieniecki. “It creates a sense of unity that strengthens our team and our community.”

EMS work is often unpredictable. For many, that’s the best part.

“You don’t know what’s coming next,” said Kamieniecki. “It might be in town, out on a highway, someone you know or someone passing through from the other side of the world. That’s what makes it exciting.”

Kirby, who still works on the front line, agrees.

“It’s never the same day twice, and that’s what keeps it rewarding,” said Kirby.

If you’re thinking about stepping into the EMS field, these professionals say go for it—but take care of yourself along the way.

“Come do a ride-along, ask questions and see what the job is really like,” said Bremmer. “Once you’re in, make sure you take care of your mental health. This career is powerful, but it can be tough. Stay grounded.”

“Never stop learning. Medicine changes fast, and we have to keep up. The more you grow, the more you can give,” said Kirby.

When asked to describe their job in a single word, their answers speak to the excitement of the career.

“Dynamic,” said Bremmer.

“Rewarding,” said Kirby.

“Unpredictable,” said Kamieniecki.

Different paths. Shared mission. Real impact.

If you’re looking for a career that challenges you, grows with you and lets you serve the community you love—EMS with Alberta Health Services might be a perfect fit for you.

Apply to become an AHS Paramedic: www.albertahealthservices.ca/careers