Don Walker

Don Walker began his EMS career with Cataldo Ambulance Service in 2003 as a Paramedic and later became a Field Training Officer. In 2008, he left Cataldo to spend the next decade working in flight critical care. His career subsequently expanded to include hospital-based intercept programs, cardiac catheterization lab experience, international medical retrieval, and austere medicine, giving Don an exceptional breadth of clinical experience.

Don returned to Cataldo Ambulance Service in 2024 and currently serves as a Clinical Field Supervisor, a role he has held since April 2025. His depth of clinical knowledge and extensive experience make him an invaluable resource to providers throughout the organization. On critical calls, Don brings a calm, confident presence that reassures his colleagues and helps teams focus on providing excellent patient care.

One colleague recalled working with Don during a particularly challenging call: “I was a newer BLS provider and felt stressed during a call that suddenly became critical. Don Walker came into the room and immediately began taking charge, delegating roles and ensuring that everything went smoothly. Even though we had very little information and a critical patient, I felt assured and confident having Don with us.”

Throughout his career, Don has assisted with multiple field deliveries and contributed to several successful cardiac arrest resuscitations. Equally important is his commitment to developing the next generation of prehospital clinicians. Through mentorship and education, Don shares the knowledge and experience gained throughout his diverse career, helping other providers grow in both skill and confidence.

Don holds an undergraduate degree in emergency medical services. Inspired by his years in flight medicine, he went on to earn a master’s degree in aviation safety and is currently pursuing his doctorate. He also teaches airway and ventilator management, extending his commitment to clinical education beyond his supervisory responsibilities.

Don’s career reflects a remarkable combination of clinical expertise, leadership, education, and service. His ability to remain composed in critical moments while helping those around him become stronger clinicians exemplifies the spirit of the Stars of Life program. Cataldo Ambulance Service is proud to recognize Don Walker as a Star of Life.