Alisha Welicki has dedicated nearly two decades to Superior Air-Ground Ambulance of Michigan, where she currently serves as a Paramedic and North Operations Manager. She began her EMS career in 2005 during Superior’s Michigan startup, completing the company’s second Emergency Medical Technician program. Over the years, she advanced through many roles, beginning as an EMT and later serving as a Station Manager while earning her Paramedic license in 2016.

Long before Superior launched a formal Field Training Officer program, Alisha recognized the importance of mentorship and spent nine years training and guiding new EMTs in the field. She remains committed to strengthening and expanding Superior’s FTO program to this day.

In 2020, Alisha stepped into the role of Operations Manager at a time of extraordinary challenge. While managing the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, she simultaneously led Superior through the acquisition of a major southeast Michigan ambulance service, prepared for a CAAS reaccreditation, and welcomed her first child. Despite these obstacles, her self-determination and perseverance were unwavering. With the addition of hundreds of employees, dozens of ambulances, and multiple new stations, her role evolved into North Operations Manager, where she continues to serve with tireless dedication and exceptional leadership.

Alisha is known for her ability to connect with employees on a personal level, ensuring every team member feels valued and supported. She is deeply committed to advancing safety initiatives for crews and patients alike, while upholding Superior’s mission, vision, and accreditation standards.

Outside of EMS, Alisha enjoys exploring the outdoors with her husband, Joseph, a firefighter/paramedic, and their children, Theodore and Charlotte. Together, they have visited 40 states, numerous National Parks, and fondly recall memorable adventures including family road trips, a journey to Alaska, and their honeymoon in Ireland.

Superior Air-Ground Ambulance is proud to recognize Alisha Welicki as a 2025 Star of Life for her longevity, leadership, and outstanding service to the EMS profession.

Michelle Walsh serves as an Advanced Scope Paramedic at Superior Air-Ground Ambulance of Ohio. Her decision to enter EMS was inspired by a deeply personal experience: while volunteering at a charity event, her grandfather suffered cardiac arrest. Michelle performed CPR for 15 minutes until EMS arrived, ultimately saving his life. That moment set her on the path to becoming a professional lifesaver.

Michelle completed EMT and Firefighter I training at Hocking County EMS in 2017, later earning her Paramedic license from Pickaway-Ross Career and Technology Center in 2019. She joined Superior of Ohio in 2020 during its startup and quickly distinguished herself as a leader and mentor. In just five years, she has advanced to Field Training Officer, American Heart Association ACLS Instructor, and Orientation Specialist for new-hire training. She also supports Superior’s Specialty Care Transport education and skills programs, and even obtained licensure in Michigan to assist with staffing needs across state lines.

Michelle’s dedication to professional growth, education, and patient care makes her a vital part of Superior’s team and its success in Ohio.

Outside of EMS, Michelle enjoys traveling and photography, especially architectural photography. She and her husband, John, recently combined both passions on a trip to Barcelona, Spain.

Superior Air-Ground Ambulance is proud to honor Michelle Walsh as a 2025 Star of Life.

Mathew Matouk serves as a Paramedic at Superior Air-Ground Ambulance in Illinois, where he is recognized for his clinical expertise, commitment to patient care, and dedication to mentoring new EMS professionals.

Mathew began his EMS journey in 2015 while attending culinary school. Seeking a career with greater purpose, he enrolled in the Emergency Medical Technician program at Joliet Junior College, later completing the Paramedic Program at Ingalls Memorial Hospital in Harvey, Illinois. In 2019, he expanded his emergency service credentials by earning his Firefighter II certification.

He joined Superior in July 2020, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, and has continually advanced his training. In 2022, he completed the Critical Care Transport Paramedic Program at Mid-State Technical College in Wisconsin. The following year, he became a Field Training Officer, where he assists Superior’s education department with new-hire orientation, skills assessments, and training.

Mathew is being honored as a Star of Life for his life-saving actions during a roadside emergency. While off duty, he and his partner stopped to assist an unresponsive patient experiencing a drug overdose on the side of an expressway. Mathew immediately administered Narcan, secured the airway, and ensured the patient’s safety until fire department EMS crews arrived to continue care. His swift intervention made the difference between life and death. In recognition of his exceptional performance, Mathew received the Top Performer Award at Superior’s inaugural EMS Symposium in Rosemont, Illinois, in February 2025.

Outside of work, Mathew enjoys spending time with family and friends, exploring new cuisines, and pursuing his passion for the arts. A drummer and theater enthusiast, he has even appeared as an extra in an episode of Chicago Fire. Looking ahead, he aspires to become a Registered Nurse and is a strong advocate for paramedic-to-RN bridge programs.

Superior Air-Ground Ambulance is proud to celebrate Mathew Matouk as a 2025 Star of Life.

Dustin Williams serves as an Emergency Medical Technician, Assistant Manager of Critical Care Transport (CCT), and Manager of Ground Organ Transport (GOT) at Superior Air-Ground Ambulance in Illinois. Since joining Superior in 2022 after completing the EMT program at the Technology Center of DuPage, Dustin has distinguished himself through leadership, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to excellence.

He began his career in the field as an EMT and Field Training Officer, mentoring new hires and ensuring they were well prepared to serve patients and the community. His leadership potential quickly became evident, and in 2023 he was promoted to Assistant Manager of CCT. In this role, he oversees a team of more than 120 critical care paramedics, nurses, EMTs, and Emergency Medical Responders across multiple stations. At the same time, Dustin serves as Manager of GOT, leading a team of 15 drivers who support surgical teams across Chicagoland.

As Superior’s youngest manager, Dustin has embraced responsibility with enthusiasm and professionalism. He ensures the operational readiness of medical equipment and fleet resources, supports compliance and accountability, and prioritizes safety across all operations. He personally meets with new drivers to review responsibilities and expectations, and he plays a key role in safety education, including Certified Emergency Vehicle Operator (CEVO) training and Superior’s annual “Safety Road-e-o” driving assessments.

Dustin was nominated as a Star of Life for his outstanding leadership, positive attitude, and transformative contributions to both patient care and safe ambulance operations. His colleagues praise his willingness to help, his ability to mentor across all levels of staff, and his dedication to building a culture of safety and excellence at Superior.

Superior Air-Ground Ambulance is proud to recognize Dustin Williams as a 2025 Star of Life.

Rachelle Hallett serves as a Critical Care Paramedic at Superior Air-Ground Ambulance of Wisconsin, where she is recognized for her passion for patient care and her commitment to mentoring the next generation of EMS professionals.

Rachelle began her EMS journey in 2017 while still in high school, completing her Emergency Medical Responder training at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College so she could volunteer with her local EMS agency in Pulaski, Wisconsin. Captivated by the profession, she shifted from nursing school aspirations to pursue a career in EMS. She went on to earn her Emergency Medical Technician certification, began working professionally as an EMT at 18, and completed her Paramedic license in 2019. In 2021, she obtained her Critical Care Transport Paramedic endorsement through the University of Wisconsin Health Emergency Education Center in Madison.

That same year, Rachelle joined Superior, where her dedication to providing exceptional care quickly became evident. In 2022, she was promoted to Field Training Officer, a natural progression given her drive to instill professionalism and high-quality care in newly hired EMTs and Paramedics. Her colleagues describe her as a welcoming resource and trustworthy mentor who embodies Superior’s high standards of excellence.

Outside of her career, Rachelle enjoys reading, hiking, and spending time with family. In July 2025, she and her husband, Seth, eloped during a memorable hiking trip in Glacier National Park. Looking ahead, Rachelle aspires to serve as a Critical Care Registered Nurse in Superior’s flight program while also pursuing a career in pediatric oncology.

Superior Air-Ground Ambulance is proud to recognize Rachelle Hallett as a 2025 Star of Life for her dedication, leadership, and unwavering passion for EMS.

Tom Felter Jr. serves as a Paramedic and Station Manager at Superior Air-Ground Ambulance of Indiana, where he oversees a team of more than 50 EMTs and Paramedics while continuing to serve patients in the field when needed. With 42 years of experience in emergency services, Tom brings unmatched knowledge, leadership, and compassion to his work.

His career began with service as a volunteer firefighter, industrial firefighter, 911 dispatcher, and police officer before he found his true calling in Emergency Medical Services. Tom worked as an EMT for 13 years before becoming a Paramedic, a role he has held for 25 years, responding to countless 911 emergencies at the Advanced Life Support level.

In 2015, Tom created The Emily Talk, a groundbreaking program designed to help first responders safely and respectfully interact with individuals with Down syndrome, autism spectrum disorder, and other disabilities. Named in honor of his daughter Emily, who was born with Down syndrome, the program has since been shared with audiences nationwide. Over time, it has expanded beyond EMS to include hospital staff, teachers, and students, fostering greater understanding and inclusion.

Tom is also deeply committed to his community. He plays a leadership role in 500 Turkeys, a charitable initiative that provides complete Thanksgiving dinners to families in need.

Married to his wife Tina for 39 years, Tom is the proud father of two daughters, Sarah and Emily, and grandfather to four grandchildren. His decades of service, advocacy, and devotion to his family and community make him a true Star of Life.

Superior Air-Ground Ambulance is honored to recognize Tom Felter Jr. as a 2025 Star of Life.

Brian Rogers has been an Advanced Scope Paramedic with Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service of Ohio, Inc. since 2020. During his tenure, Brian has played an integral role as a Field Training Officer, guiding new hires through orientation and training. With a career spanning over three decades in emergency services, Brian began as an EMT in 1987, advanced to EMT-Intermediate in 1992, and became a certified Paramedic in 1998.

Brian’s extensive experience includes 37 years with the Springfield Fire Department in Richland County, Ohio, and 32 years with Mansfield Ambulance before joining Superior. In addition, he served in the transportation department of the local school system for 30 years.

Known for his leadership, professionalism, and clinical expertise, Brian consistently demonstrates the qualities of an EMS professional, holding his peers accountable and leading by example. He excels in high-pressure situations, bringing a positive attitude and a “whatever you need” approach to any challenge.

Outside of his professional life, Brian enjoys taking cruises, finding balance between his demanding career and personal life. His unwavering dedication to EMS continues to inspire those around him, making him a strong candidate for the Star of Life Award.

Michael Mitchell earned his EMT certification from Waubonsee Community College, where he was recognized on both the Dean’s and President’s lists. While his ultimate goal is to become a police officer, Michael began his EMS career in February 2024.

Michael and his partner are being recognized as Stars of Life recipients for their life-saving actions during a critical incident. While stopped at a red light, they were approached by an off-duty police officer carrying a pediatric patient who had been shot. Thanks to their quick response, the crew was able to initiate life-saving measures and transport the infant to the nearest trauma center. This event highlights Michael’s dedication and skill in emergency medical services, demonstrating his commitment to providing exceptional care in the most challenging situations.

Alissa (Ali) Krisher, a Critical Care Paramedic with Superior Air-Ground Ambulance of Wisconsin, has been a dedicated member of the EMS community for over 11 years. Originally from Marion, Wisconsin, a small town of around 1,200 people, Alissa began her EMS journey as an EMT and quickly advanced to become a paramedic. She later obtained her Critical Care Paramedic certification, serving many years responding to 911 calls and providing expert care to her patients.

As part of the Critical Care Team at Superior, Alissa has brought her passion for exceptional patient care to every call. She has also dedicated time outside the ambulance, teaching EMS at a local community college and volunteering at numerous medical events. She holds a special place in her heart for pediatric patients, always striving to provide the highest level of care to the youngest and most vulnerable members of the community.

Outside of her professional life, Alissa is a single mother to her 6-year-old daughter, Aubree, who is the light of her life. Aubree is the driving force behind Alissa’s dedication to EMS, inspiring her to be the best version of herself both as a professional and as a mother. Together, they enjoy fishing, riding their family’s SXS, cooking, playing various sports, and spending time with family. Both share a love for reading, and their bond is central to Alissa’s motivation to succeed.

Alissa is deeply honored to have been chosen as a recipient of the Star of Life award and looks forward to many more years in EMS. She hopes to inspire her daughter—and others—to believe that they can achieve anything they set their minds to. Her unwavering dedication to her profession and her commitment to being a role model for Aubree exemplify the values of a true Star of Life.

Brian Keith began his career in the fire service in Arizona, dedicating twenty years to serving his community. Throughout those years, he faced many challenges, but the common denominator in all situations was being part of a team that provided superior care to those in need. Retiring as a Captain/Paramedic, Brian decided to move to Wisconsin to be closer to his family.

Brian is married to his wife Kelly, and together they have a blended family with four children, aged 23 to 31, and two young grandchildren. When not working, Brian enjoys traveling to Arizona and Florida to visit his children and grandkids. He and Kelly are both passionate about golf and enjoy spending time on the course whenever possible. He also loves fishing, kayaking, exploring Wisconsin, and spending time with their two huskies.

Currently working as an EMT in Superior, Wisconsin, Brian and his partner, fellow Star of Life recipient Alissa Krisher, were recognized for their excellent care and assistance provided during an emergent CCT interfacility transport. The patient, who had survived cardiac arrest, required seamless, critical care, and Brian and Alissa’s expertise ensured a smooth transport to a higher level of care. Their teamwork and dedication made a profound impact on the patient’s outcome.

Though unable to attend the Star of Life award ceremony in person, Brian is deeply appreciative of this recognition. He humbly acknowledges the contributions of the first responders and hospital staff involved in the case, emphasizing that saving the patient’s life was a collective effort driven by a shared commitment to providing excellent care.

Diamond Hall, an Emergency Medical Technician with Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service of Illinois, is being recognized for her exemplary dedication to public service and her remarkable life-saving actions. A graduate of Oak Park River Forest High School, Diamond went on to complete her EMT training at Illinois Central College, where she was a member of the honors society and earned two academic scholarships. Her commitment to public service extends beyond EMS, as her ultimate goal is to become a police officer.

Diamond and her partner are being honored as Stars of Life for their swift and heroic response to a critical situation. While stopped at a red light, an off-duty police officer approached their ambulance carrying a pediatric patient who had been shot. Thanks to their quick thinking and immediate life-saving interventions, Diamond and her team were able to stabilize the infant and transport them to the nearest trauma center. This incident is a powerful example of Diamond’s skill, composure, and dedication to Emergency Medical Services.

Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service is proud to recognize Diamond Hall as a 2024 Star of Life for her unwavering commitment to saving lives and serving her community.

Michael Dobrosky has been an Advanced Scope Paramedic with Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service of Ohio since 2021. In a relatively short time, Michael has distinguished himself as a Field Training Officer (FTO), reflecting his strong commitment to mentoring and developing new EMS professionals.

Michael’s EMS career began in 2010 as an EMT with First Care Ambulance, where he advanced to Operations Manager. In 2024, while working at Superior, he earned his Paramedic certification, achieving the highest score in the history of the paramedic program at the University of Toledo Medical Center (UTMC)—a testament to his dedication and expertise.

Michael’s perseverance through personal and professional challenges makes him an exceptional candidate for the Star of Life Award. He has faced significant adversity, including the loss of his father, the birth of his daughter with health complications, and his own battle with cancer. Despite these hardships, Michael consistently maintains a positive attitude, demonstrates an outstanding work ethic, and exercises sound clinical judgment. He is highly regarded by his peers for his professionalism and his ability to inspire high standards in those around him.

In his spare time, Michael enjoys spending quality time with his daughter and family, racing cars, and working on hands-on projects that showcase his skill and creativity. His resilience and dedication to both his profession and his family are truly inspiring.

Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service of Ohio is proud to honor Michael Dobrosky as a 2024 Star of Life for his exceptional contributions to EMS and his community.

John Basile, an Emergency Medical Technician, graduated from Indiana University Northwest in 2013 with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, originally intending to join the fire service in Northwest Indiana. While pursuing his EMT-B certification as a prerequisite, John discovered his true passion lay in the medical field and soon after began his career at Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service of Indiana.

After several years of handling inter-facility transports, John transitioned to emergency medical services, where he has since dedicated himself to serving his community. His efforts extend beyond patient care—he regularly supports local festivals and school sporting events and has been involved in advocacy, meeting with politicians to lobby for critical EMS legislation in Indiana. As a Field Training Officer for the past eight years, John is known for his leadership, mentorship, and positive attitude, earning him the affectionate nickname of the “golden retriever” EMT among his peers.

Outside of work, John enjoys spending time with his wife, Melissa, their two pets, Smoke and Bandit, and his nephew Bentley. He hopes to instill in Bentley a love for community service and compassion for others, values that define John’s own life and career.

Paul began his career in EMS with Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service of Michigan, Inc. in 2009. He currently serves as a Station Manager within the Michigan leadership team.

Paul began his career as a Paramedic. He became a part of the Critical Care Team in 2010 and started on the flight team in 2012. He was Board Certified as a Flight Paramedic in 2013. Paul spent seven years on the rotor service and one year on fixed wing service, prior to his promotion to Warren Station Manager.

Paul has contributed greatly during his time at Superior. As a Station Manager, Paul was instrumental in fostering a strong working relationship with Superior’s NICU team partners. He worked to equip more ambulances across the Michigan fleet to accommodate NICU/PICU patients. He also provided outreach to the NICU departments, giving them training and guidance on transport-related concerns. Another area Paul has contributed to is the mentorship of the station manager group. Paul has personally taken on the responsibility of mentoring and guiding fellow station managers to help them excel.  

Additionally, Paul consistently provides oversight and coordination for staff training. He has both developed and coordinated Superior’s compliance and skills training for staff, with a high rate of success. Paul is an active American Heart Association instructor within Superior. Not only does he teach courses for the staff, but he also provides instruction for the residency program at Beaumont Hospital-Farmington Hills where he teaches resident physicians CPR and ACLS.  

Paul has been a part of the US Department of Health and Human Services National Disaster Medical System since 2013 and has worked with several other Michigan providers and providers from other states on his deployments over the years. He considers his time deployed in service to disaster zones across the country and participating in national security special events as very rewarding.

During Paul’s free time, he enjoys boating, snowboarding, mountain biking, camping, and CrossFit with his friends and family.

We are proud to call Paul Tank one of our own and recognize him as a 2023 Star of Life.

Jeffrey Wilken, CCEMT-P, Operations Manager for Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service of Indiana began his EMS career in 2010 as an EMT with a hospital-based county 911 service. During his time there, he earned his Paramedic certification in May of 2014.

After becoming a Paramedic, he set out to further his career and take advantage of better opportunities by taking a position on a 911 contract with Superior of Indiana. While working 911 was a special and rewarding experience, Jeffrey was looking to expand his knowledge of pre-hospital and inter-facility mobile healthcare.  He excelled in his Critical Care Paramedic program and added that certification to his list of accomplishments.  

 Jeffrey’s love for treating patients in the emergency setting as well as the critical care transport setting was extremely rewarding.  However, he still wanted to do more for both his patients and fellow EMS providers. 

“Jeffrey was the station manager for our Valparaiso station when I first met him.  He was loved by his fellow EMTs and paramedics, he was always available and a true employee advocate.  When I was looking for an Operations Manager, I was awe-struck by his compassion, skills, and outgoing personality and knew immediately he would be an asset to the leadership team,” wrote his nominator for Stars of Life.

In his role as Operations Manager, he has continued to sharpen his leadership skills by studying leadership strategies and attending lectures and conferences on the topic. His leadership style closely relates to the ideas of reality-based leadership and extreme ownership. Jeffrey is a graduate of the Ambulance Service Management course in Spring of 2022 and co-authored a research paper about the recruitment and retention of EMTs and Paramedics in our current culture titled Swipe Right to Apply.

Today, six station managers directly report to Jeffrey. He oversees 300 field employees in a diverse company with 911 contracts, inter-facility transfers, critical care services, industrial EMS, and an MIH program. 

Jeffrey attributes his affinity for leadership to his past experiences as a youth sports coach and his ability to connect with his peers through understanding and empathy.

He is married to the love of his life, Ashleigh, and is the proud father to Holden and Wade.  He is active in his community and his son’s school as well as coaching football. 

Superior Ambulance of Indiana is a better company because of Jeffrey’s daily leadership and dedication. 

Leonard Washington is a 9-year military veteran Combat Lifesaver who earned his associate’s degree from Rock Valley College. Leonard joined Superior’s Illinois Division in 2007 as an EMT, then earned his Paramedic certification in 2009 through the Swedish American program.

In 2010, he left Superior to run 911, but did not stay away long. In 2015, Leonard returned to Superior in the Rockford area and became a Critical Care Medic. When Superior opened its Wisconsin operations, he was one of the first to join.

Leonard has played a huge part in Superior’s success in Wisconsin and has moved all over the state to help start multiple stations in Green Bay, Kenosha, Madison, and finally, Janesville. Leonard is always available to help, and his peers and leaders look to him for guidance.

Leonard has a positive work ethic and is always willing to go above and beyond for his patients and coworkers.

Anna Busse, Critical Care Medic at Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service of Wisconsin, has served her community through EMS for 18 years. In that time, she has worked in private ambulance services handling both emergency and non-emergency response. 

Anna is proud to have been a Critical Care Transport (CCT) Paramedic for 11 years and continues to learn something new every day from patients, staff, and coworkers. In addition to her position in the field, Anna continues to work in a hospital Emergency Room.

Anna joined Superior in 2021 and has been an integral part of Superior’s growth in Wisconsin since then by assisting with opening new stations in various areas throughout the state. Anna is seen as a leader amongst her coworkers as a Field Training Officer and CCT Paramedic who people look to for guidance.

Anna has expressed that her role at Superior is the first time in her career where she feels supported and seen along with feeling like she has all the tools needed to do her job.

Anna’s family is her everything. She says that she wouldn’t be here without the support of her husband along with her mixed bag of family, animals, and friends.

Kellie Ruetsch is the Regional Operations Manager for Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service of Ohio, Inc.  She started her career as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) in 1997 and became a Paramedic in 2002. Kellie also worked as a dispatcher for three years in addition to her service working in the field. She attained her firefighter license in 2000.

In 2016, Kellie was offered a leadership position in which she immediately excelled. She continued her professional growth by obtaining her EMS Instructor license in 2017 and completing the prestigious Ambulance Service Manager certification in 2022. 

What makes Kellie so special and a perfect candidate for the Star of Life is how she leads by example. She exemplifies a consummate EMS professional through her consistency, steady demeanor, and the way that she always strives to do her best for patients, colleagues, and the community.

In 2020, Kellie was instrumental in Superior’s launch in Ohio.  Her sterling reputation with local agencies and government bodies aided Superior Ambulance with quick entry into the state. She has been able to maintain 20+ years of excellent service in private EMS while simultaneously holding a position at Clinton Township Fire Department and being a devoted mother of two. 

In Kellie’s spare time, she enjoys going on family vacations to Walt Disney, watching her kids compete in sports, and simply relaxing with her husband. 

Janet Brooks began her career with Superior Air-ground Ambulance Service, Inc. back in December 1992. After spending her early professional career in Food Service, which included management with K-Mart and McDonald’s, she grew unhappy with the inability to do what she really wanted to do—follow in the footsteps of her mother, a cardiac nurse, and help others. 

As a small child Janet would find all types of small, wounded animals and bring them to her mother to see how they could help them heal. Some lived and some died, but that didn’t deter Janet.

At the age of 15 she became “Candy Striper” volunteering her Saturdays to deliver mail and flowers to sick patients at the hospital where her mother worked. After her shift was over, she would go up to her mother’s unit, where (under supervision) she was allowed to help care for patients.

Janet volunteered this way for two years, during which she learned how to perform CPR. It was impossible to predict how this training would pay off in the future, until…

While camping on vacation in Rapid City, South Dakota, tragedy struck. Janet witnessed a young female being pulled from the pool in an apparent drowning.  Janet swiftly swam to the other side of the pool, jumped out of the water, and asked if anyone knew CPR. Janet was met with blank stares and asked someone to call 911. Janet, now 18, tried to remember her CPR training from 3 years back. She performed chest compressions and gave mouth-to-mouth the best she could until the young victim began to cough up pool water. Janet quickly turned the victim onto her side so she wouldn’t aspirate and covered her up with towels to keep her warm. In the distance, Janet heard the wail of the sirens of the inbound ambulance. The victim was then taken to the waiting ambulance and was quickly whisked away.

That is when the shock hit Janet. With the assistance of her friend’s father, Janet was taken to their camper shaking uncontrollably. Doubts ran through her min. “What if I didn’t perform CPR correctly? Did I do more harm than good?” But she guessed doing something, even imperfectly, was better than doing nothing at all.

Once she calmed down, Janet called home to tell her family how her vacation was going so far. She was able to see the Black Hills from their campsite. She was going to see Mt Rushmore and that she had just saved a drowning victim. Her mother began to cry and was grateful her daughter was where she needed to be at that time and place. Janet’s mother contacted the volunteer office and thanked them for requiring that hospital volunteers learn CPR. Janet still has the article that was written about her in the hospital’s newsletter.

Janet attended a local Community College where she has an associate degree in criminal justice. Her desire was to further her schooling, but money was in short supply. So, Janet began to work at McDonald’s on campus. Janet worked her way up to Assistant Manager in just a few short years. Janet worked for Mcdonald’s for 12 years and was also working part-time at a local K-Mart.

The day Janet witnessed a cat being hit by a car changed her life. A woman standing on the side of the street picked up the cat and began to run toward the local Fire Department. Janet, who was driving by in her car, yelled to the woman to get in and she would then drive them to an area animal hospital. Sadly, the cat—who belonged to the woman’s daughter—died of a broken back. Janet then asked where her daughter was, trying to make small talk to take the uncomfortable silence away while driving the woman and the dead cat to their animal hospital 30 minutes away. The woman said that her daughter worked at the local zoo and that she should call her. Janet informed the woman that she should wait until her daughter came home from work to inform her that her pet had been killed. The woman agreed and thanked Janet for helping her out in her time of need. The woman asked Janet what she did for a living and Janet told her she worked for McDonald’s but was unhappy due to her being passed over as a Store Manager. Janet asked the woman what she did for a living and the woman stated she was going to school to become an EMT. Janet always wanted to work on an ambulance but had no idea how to go about doing so. The woman then told Janet that she had what it took to become an EMT, she helped a stranger in her time of need. She told Janet that if she was serious about a career change, she would talk to her instructor and get Janet into the next class. Janet enrolled in the next EMT class.

Following her hire, Janet worked hard at Superior. After her day shift, she would volunteer her time on an ALS rig so she could learn as much as possible.

Janet was the first station manager to have a station at a local hospital where she attended their Paramedic program. Janet was in the 1996-1997 Paramedic class, all the while running a station. Once she graduated, she stepped down as a manager to begin her career as a Paramedic.

Janet tested into one of Illinois’ most prestigious EMS systems, Northwest Community Hospital. Janet is a FTO and a Paramedic Preceptor. Janet was also an EMS Coordinator working between NWC and Superior.

Janet has been influential in helping save the Company thousands of dollars with the development of the pack system. Janet and her former station manager were tired of throwing away dirty supplies and began to use Seal-A-Meal to package supplies to help keep them clean and organized. Superior adapted the program and uses it to this very day.

Janet works a 24-hour shift and serves at special events like concerts, sporting events, and the Chicago Marathon. In 2004, Janet was part of a deployment for then President-Elect Barack Obama’s Inauguration to head to Washington D.C. to provide EMS services while the D.C. paramedics took care of the events at the Capitol. Janet has worked on several movie shoots and an episode of Extreme Home Makeover.

Janet is a team player when it comes to helping new station managers become acclimated to the station and the crew members. She takes on the role of making sure the station has the supplies needed. In fact, Janet is known at her station as Momma Jan. She makes sure that the station is clean, that rigs are stocked appropriately, and reminds the crews to be safe and have a great day.

Janet enjoys listening to music, concerts, and jigsaw puzzles. When Janet isn’t working, she is at home with her wife of 12 years and their two rescue dogs. Janet and her wife are very active with their church. They prepare meals for the food and housing insecure in their community. They serve meals for the PADS Interim Housing Center. As well as two senior complexes for food insecurity with the Northern Illinois Food Bank. Janet also volunteers at the Greater Chicago Food Depository.

Marco Patino NRP, LI, is a dedicated and accomplished healthcare professional who embarked on his career with Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service, Inc. in February 2017. With a commitment to excellence and a passion for serving his community, Marco has made significant contributions to the field of emergency medical services (EMS) in Illinois.

Currently, Marco Patino holds the position of Paramedic and serves as an integral part of the Superior Leadership team as the Manager of Education for Illinois. In this role, he has demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities and a strong commitment to improving the quality of EMS education and training in the region. Marco’s dedication to teaching and his role as a support structure for EMT classes have made him a respected figure in the EMS community.

One of Marco’s notable achievements has been his involvement in implementing EMR (Emergency Medical Responder) programs in high schools throughout Illinois. By introducing these courses, he has played a crucial role in educating the next generation of EMS professionals and raising awareness about the importance of emergency medical services.

What makes Marco’s journey even more inspiring is the fact that he is a DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) recipient. Despite the challenges and uncertainties that come with this status, Marco has shown remarkable resilience and determination in pursuing his career in healthcare. He not only serves as a role model within the EMS field but also advocates passionately for the rights and opportunities of DACA recipients. His advocacy work sheds light on the importance of inclusive policies and support for individuals who, like him, have made significant contributions to their communities.

In addition to his demanding leadership responsibilities and advocacy efforts, Marco remains deeply connected to the field of clinical practice. He actively schedules himself for ambulance shifts multiple times a week, demonstrating his ongoing commitment to providing hands-on care to patients in need. This dedication ensures that he stays connected to the realities of pre-hospital care, which, in turn, informs his leadership and educational roles.

Outside of his professional endeavors, Marco Patino values and cherishes his time spent with his two children, Layla and Troy, as well as his beautiful wife Sabrina. These relationships are a source of strength and inspiration, driving him to excel both personally and professionally.