Category Archives: From the Team

Meet the Newest Members of the Team: ASM Hires Six – 2016

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MANCHESTER — On February 3, 2016 five EMTs and one Paramedic were added to the ASM team. As part of our continued growth Aetna and ASM seek out only the best candidates. We look for employees who are focused on high-quality patient care, are team oriented and conduct themselves in a professional manner. During the orientation, employees learn about company philosophy and goals, quality assurance, and policies and procedures.

Justin Craig:    FULL TIME EMT. My name is Justin and I am 24 years old. I graduated from Central Connecticut State University with a bachelor’s degree in Sociology.  Soon after graduating I started pursuing my EMT certification. I applied at ASM because I had my ride a long there and really enjoyed my experience. I was recently accepted as a Volunteer Fire Fighter in South Meriden and plan on getting my Firefighter-I certification in the near future. I am really big into the outdoors; love to go fishing and camping all around New England. I have two dogs Cody and Bear, which I go on hikes with. I am looking forward to starting my career at ASM and getting started in the EMS field.

Kaylyn Fuller:    FULL TIME, EMT. Hi, my name is Kaylyn Fuller.  I am 23 years old and live in South Windsor.  I graduated from Eastern Connecticut State University with a B.S. in Biology in May of 2015.   Eventually, I would like to go to school for Physician’s Assistant.  During my time shadowing doctors and PA’s in preparation for PA school, I was able to spend time in the Harlem, New York Emergency Department.  I fell in love with emergency medicine and decided that this was how I wanted to spend my time before PA school.  I felt that emergency medicine gave the most immediate gratification by giving the greatest help in the shortest amount of time.  For me, being an EMT is the best way to combine my love for medicine, science and being around people.  I have worked in the restaurant business since I was 16.  Most recently, I left to start EMT work from bartending and restaurant management.  Though I enjoyed being around people in food service, I really wanted to be in the medical field and be hands-on in pre-hospital care.  I am so excited to finally be in the field I love, practice emergency medicine and gain as much experience as possible.

Michael Karanda:   FULL TIME, EMT. My name is Michael Karanda. I am 25 years old originally from Glastonbury, CT. I graduated from Central Connecticut State University in 2013 with my bachelors degree in Criminology and a Minor in Psychology. I  first became an EMT in 2013 through Bristol Hospital. I recently attended Capital Community College to become a Paramedic. During my spare time I volunteer for the Glastonbury and Hebron Fire Departments. I also enjoy spending time with family and my three Bull Terriers. Emergency Medical Services is a field in which I truly enjoy. I am thankful for the opportunity and I look forward to working with ASM and with the communities in which they serve.

Elizabeth Miller:   FULL TIME, EMT. My name is Liz Miller and I am 22 years old. I recently graduated with a B.S. in Allied Health Sciences from University of Connecticut. For the past nine months I have been working as a private patient care assistant in Storrs. I am thrilled to become a part of ASM and to be working as a full-time EMT. During the summer I volunteer for a week at Camp Amerikids, recently renamed The Elm Project, which is a summer camp for children who are affected by HIV/AIDS or Sickle Cell Disease. In my free time I enjoy swimming, hiking, and surfing. I love traveling; I lived in Scotland for my Junior year in college which gave me the opportunity to visit a few different countries in Europe. I have a deep love for SmartWool socks and I also enjoy eating Nilla Wafers in my pajamas, building miniature snowmen when it only snows two inches, and dodging jellyfish when I go swimming in the ocean.

Meghan Pierce:   FULL TIME EMT.  Hi, my name is Meghan Pierce I’m 31 years old.  I’m a CT native currently residing in Coventry; however, I previously resided in Kentucky where I obtained my BS in Wildlife Management from Eastern Kentucky University. I went to SOLO Wilderness Medical School in New Hampshire and received a Wilderness EMT certification. I was able to obtain a job with North Conway Ambulance and have enjoyed working in the EMS field.  I also have a Firefighter-I certification and while I’ve enjoyed structural firefighting, my favorite is the Wildland  firefighting aspect.  In my free time, I enjoy being outdoors, hiking, kayaking, and fishing.  I’m looking forward to joining and contributing to the ASM Team.

David Thiery Jr:   FULL TIME, PARAMEDIC. Greetings! My name is David Thiery Jr and I am 26 years old. I hail from northwestern,CT and currently live in Waterbury,CT with my lovely fiancée. I just recently attended Yale New Haven Sponsor Hospital’s critical care transport program, and I have received the designation of FP-C (Flight paramedic certified) from the Board of Critical Care Transport Paramedic certification. I graduated from Bridgeport Hospital Emergency Medical Institute’s Paramedic program in 2014. My goal is to further my career in critical care medicine, I will be pursuing my RN to obtain my flight nurse, and I have been considering a masters degree in cardiovascular perfusion. In my spare time, I volunteer with New Hartford Ambulance and I am a per diem Paramedic with Stamford EMS. I also enjoy being an amateur musician. I am very excited to be joining the ASM team and look forward to working for a progressive company.

CT Children’s and State Police Toy Drive in Pictures – 2015

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ASM’s Mikhail Khan Becomes a Citizen of the United States

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HARTFORD — On December 4, 2015, surrounded by his friends and family, ASM EMT Mikhail Khan took the Naturalization Oath  of Allegiance to the United States of American and officially became a US Citizen.

Mikhail Khan Oath of Allegiance

On behalf of the ASM Family, we are tremendously proud of Mikhail. Please take a moment to congratulate him.

Aetna’s Matt Campbell Promoted to Field Supervisor

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Matt Campbell AHARTFORD — On December 4, 2015 Aetna’s Matt Campbell was promoted to the position of Field Supervisor.

According to Matt, “I have been with Aetna Ambulance since September 2011 and have enjoyed every day coming to work since.  I have been in EMS since 2007 and have not looked back. I started out my career in Boston at a private service. When I realized that I love this job and wanted to become a Paramedic, I enrolled in Paramedic classes at Comprehensive Medical Teaching Institute (CMTI).

“When I was in school I met my wife while she was attending college in Boston. We now have a family that is growing very fast. My wife and I have a two year old boy and are now expecting twin girls. I have been a Paramedic for over six years now. I became a preceptor for Aetna in early 2012. I am very exited to work with all my colleagues in my new position as Field Supervisor. Aetna is in a true fashion is a family; we stick side-by-side and work day-by-day together. I work with the highest level of professionals In the business every day.  I want to thank all of my Aetna family for all of your support. Let’s wish and hope for further success in our careers together.”

On behalf of the Aetna family we would like to congratulate Matt on his promotion and look forward to great things from him.

Meet the Newest Members of the Team: Aetna Hires Six, 2015

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HARTFORD — On November 6, 2015, three EMTs and three Paramedics were added to the Aetna team. As part of our continued growth ASM and Aetna seek out only the best candidates. We look for employees who are focused on high-quality patient care, are team oriented and conduct themselves in a professional manner. During the orientation, employees learn about company philosophy and goals, quality assurance, and policies and procedures.

Amy Bastien:   FULL TIME, EMT. Hi, my name is Amy Bastien, I’m 27 years old, and I live in New Britain, CT. I graduated from UMass Amherst in 2010 with a B.S. in Business Management. After college, I spent a few years traveling and living abroad. In that time, I learned a lot about myself volunteering at clinics in underserved populations, and began to feel compelled to help those who cannot help themselves. It is my hope to gain as much experience as possible as an EMT with Aetna, in order to proceed to a physician assistant program. It is my life goal to continue on a path of providing comfort and care to those in need. In my spare time, I hang out with my dog, play co-ed soccer, and train Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with Team Link. I am greatly looking forward to working with Aetna and am very thankful for the opportunity to do so.

Melissa Bilgen:   FULL TIME, EMT. My name is Melissa and I am 26 years old. Born in Hartford, CT but holding dual citizenship in Turkey. I graduated from UCONN Storrs in 2012 with a B.A. in Biology and minor in Anthropology. I joined the Army National Guard in 2013. I am currently a 68W, Combat Medic, in the 102d Infantry. I am one of two females integrated into the Infantry Unit which is exciting. Ever since I became a Combat Medic I always knew I wanted a career in the medical field. The way the human body works and reacts to things is fascinating to me. I also want to keep my skills set up if I deploy. I strive to one day be a paramedic. In my free time I am very much into fitness. My favorite classes are Core, HIIT, and Yoga.

Michael Bouley:    FULL TIME, Paramedic. My name is Michael Bouley, I am 29 years old and I am originally from Manchester, CT, presently living in Tolland, CT. After high school I attended Central Connecticut State University, studying a broad number of subjects, primarily western philosophy and sociology. I took my EMT course through Hartford Hospital, and absolutely loved the unique experience, and the opportunity to help people that EMS affords. I have been a volunteer EMT with Windsor EMS for the last three years, and particularly enjoyed the responsibility of being a field training officer teaching new EMTs. I recently graduated from the Capital Community College Paramedic program, and I am very excited to begin my career as a part of the Aetna Ambulance team and to further my knowledge and experience in the field. In my spare time I like hiking with my two dogs, camping, painting miniatures, and playing video games, I am an avid reader, and love learning about history, philosophy, and science. I look forward to working for a company that has such a strong reputation, and hope to meet everyone soon!

Tessa Gilbert:  FULL TIME, Paramedic. My name is Tessa Gilbert, I am 25 years old and currently live in Ledyard, CT. When I was younger my dad was in the military so I have lived many places on the East Coast as well as in Alaska. I have been in commercial EMS for a company in Norwich for two years.  I started in EMS after graduating from UCONN with a Psychology degree and really enjoyed many aspects of the job. I decided after about five months in EMS that I enjoyed it so much that I enrolled and am about to complete the Paramedic Program at Goodwin College. When I am not working or in class I like to work out and stay active. This includes hiking, swimming, completing Tough Mudders, volleyball, soccer, traveling, and paddle boarding. I mostly try to stay in good shape since I also really enjoy eating and trying new restaurants/food. I also enjoy watching movies and Netflix binging.  I aspire to eventually become a flight medic and one day a CRNA. I am really excited to begin working and expanding my skills and experience with Aetna.

Ryan Sullivan:   FULL TIME, EMT. My name is Ryan Sullivan and I am 22 years old. I graduated from UCONN in May 2015, with a major in molecular and cell biology and a minor in math. As an undergraduate I thought I wanted to pursue research as a career. But after working in chemical engineering, allied health, and epigenetic labs, I realized that research was not for me. In my final semester I took an EMT training course that UCONN offered, just because I thought it would be fun. I really enjoyed the course and after graduating, I knew I wanted to stick with it. Now I am very interested in the medical field, and I hope to one day go to medical school. In my free time I like to play video games, hang out with friends, and scuba dive. I also want to pick up skydiving as a hobby. I am looking forward to working with everyone at Aetna Ambulance, and I hope my time here will be the start to a great career in medicine.

Meet the Newest Members of the Team: ASM Hires Six – 2015

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MANCHESTER — On October 14, 2015 five EMTs and one Paramedic were added to the ASM team. As part of our continued growth Aetna and ASM seek out only the best candidates. We look for employees who are focused on high-quality patient care, are team oriented and conduct themselves in a professional manner. During the orientation, employees learn about company philosophy and goals, quality assurance, and policies and procedures.

Ashley DeBisschop:    FULL TIME, EMT. My name is Ashley DeBisschop and I am 27 years old from Willimantic, Connecticut. I studied Bio-Chemistry and Anthropology at Eastern Connecticut State University and completed my EMT program through CodeOne at QVCC in Danielson. I am a volunteer EMT for the South Windham Fire Department and celebrated my second year in July. It has been a very rewarding and educational experience. I have gained valuable knowledge and look forward to conintuing that at ASM. I am eager to advance my skills and learn from my fellow colleagues. In the future, I hope to further my education by attending a paramedic or nursing program.

Ashley Linardo:    FULL TIME, Paramedic. My name is Ashley and I am 29 years old currently living in Vernon, CT. I am a recent graduate of Capital Community College Paramedic program. I started off in the medical field five years ago as a Patient Care Technician and a volunteer firefighter. Immediately after volunteering for the fire department, I knew that I wanted to pursue my career in emergency medicine. I got my EMT a few years ago and started working on a town ambulance and also worked in an emergency department. Shortly after that, I started pursing my paramedic degree. In my spare time, I enjoy cooking, hiking, watching football, and doing anything that involves being outdoors. I’m excited and grateful for the opportunity to be part of the ASM family!

Cameron Raymes:    FULL TIME, EMT. My name is Cameron. I am 23 years old and have lived in Connecticut my whole life. I am a graduate of the University of Connecticut Storrs with a bachelor’s degree in economics and a minor in biological sciences. I am an aspiring physician assistant primarily with interests of helping people in emergency medicine.  I have held jobs ranging from a preschool to a research lab to a doctors office.  In my free time, some of my outside interests include traveling, skiing, wake boarding, mountain biking, golfing, and Brazilian jiu jitsu.

Eliot Snoek:     FULL TIME, EMT. Hailing from South Windsor, I am a graduate of the University of New Haven with a B.S. in Biology, and minors in Chemistry and Psychology.  My interests range all over the place, including motorsports, rugby, programming, audio tech, horticulture, scuba diving, and every now and then a musical instrument or two.  As you may have guessed, I’m also into helping people out on some of the worst days of their lives – one of my favorite parts of EMS.  Planning to venture into the nursing field, for now I am enjoying exploring the pre-hospital side of patient care.  I currently volunteer with Bloomfield Volunteer Ambulance, and am excited to get started in my position at ASM!

Tyler Wallace:    FULL TIME, EMT. My name is Tyler Wallace. I am 20 years old and I was born in East Hartford, Connecticut. I obtained my EMT certification at the age of 18, after high school, and started to volunteer to build up my skills. When the opportunity arose to apply for a position at ASM I applied as soon as I could. I did so because I remember at a young age seeing ASM’s EMT’s and Paramedics treating their patients as if they were their own family members and seeing the impact of such care. From that point on I knew I wanted to do something that could impact our community in this way. What better way to do so than to become a team member at the Ambulance Service of Manchester? I look forward in growing and learning with such a positive and rewarding organization.

Luke Zalewski:    FULL TIME, EMT. My name is Luke Zalewski, I am 22 years old, and from Burlington, CT. In my spare time I enjoy participating in physical activities, watching sports, and riding motorcycles. I recently graduated from the University of Connecticut with an Allied Health major and a Psychology minor. During my time at UCONN I competed as a Division I athlete on the Varsity Swim Team. I started my EMT career with the Burlington Volunteer Fire Department two years ago, and soon after became an employee for Bristol Hospital EMS. With the experience gained at these institutions, I was able to solidify my passion for healthcare. My goal is to attend a PA program and enhance my medical abilities. I look forward to becoming an employee at ASM, and improve as an emergency professional.

Aetna On Hand for Rocky Hill Veteran’s Home ‘2015 Stand Down’

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ROCKY HILL — On September 18, 2015 crews from Aetna Ambulance were on hand for the Connecticut Department of Veteran’s Affairs 2015 “Stand Down.” The eight hour event offers veterans access to medical screenings, veteran benefit information (State and Federal), legal and motor vehicle assistance and employment and educational assistance.

ASM On Hand at the Wapping Fair in South Windsor

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Wapping Fair 2015SOUTH WINDSOR — On September 10-13, 2015 crews from the Ambulance Service of Manchester were on hand at the Wapping Fair in South Windsor. The event is organized by the South Windsor Jaycees Foundation and is billed as an exciting combination of fun, unique entertainment and lots of family friendly hands on attractions, two of which were sponsored by ASM.

ASM performed a medical standby alongside South Windsor Fire Department partners. The standby served a dual purpose as the children were able to take tours of the ambulance and fire apparatus. Photos courtesy of Cody Lemire, Cheryl Everest and Brad McDonald.

Meet the Newest Members of the Team: ASM Hires Six, 2015

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HARTFORD — On August 12, 2015 six EMTs were added to the ASM team. As part of our continued growth Aetna and ASM seek out only the best candidates. We look for employees who are focused on high-quality patient care, are team oriented and conduct themselves in a professional manner. During the orientation, employees learn about company philosophy and goals, quality assurance, and policies and procedures.

Valerie Adams:    FULL TIME, EMT. My name is Val Adams, I’m 26 years old and currently reside in Ellington, CT.  In my free time I enjoy volunteering on the Ellington Volunteer Fire Department. I have been a member of the department for just over ten years and have been a lieutenant for the past two years. I recently became involved with helping out with the cadet program and love being able to teach new skills to the kids. In addition to volunteering I also enjoy running on a regular basis and try to run a few 5k races every summer. I attended college at Worcester Polytechnic Institute where I received a BS degree in Civil Engineering and an MS in Fire Protection Engineering. Although I have enjoyed learning about both fields of work, I quickly determined that it was not the right career choice for me. Through volunteering I was able to find that I loved to help people and decided to get my EMT license after being an EMR for about ten years. I have also decided to go back to school and am working towards a degree in nursing.

Ryan Bochman:    FULL TIME, EMT. My name is Ryan and I am 32 years old.  My wife and I recently bought a house in East Hampton.  I have been a volunteer firefighter on and off for almost seven years in various location.  I had my Intro to EMS while I was still in high school as an MRT (now EMR).  I later chose to pursue my EMT certification and have been volunteering with the Manchester Fire Department 8th District as a firefighter/EMT for 1 1/2 years.  In my free time I enjoy doing pretty much anything outside from fishing to golfing, or just playing with my dog Jake.  I’m looking forward to what the future holds, whether it be Paramedic school or an RN degree.  But I am looking forward to starting a new career with ASM and to assist people in their time of need.

James Crompton:    FULL TIME, EMT. My name is James Crompton. I am 22 years old and this is my first job in commercial EMS. I am from Middlefield, Connecticut and have previously attended Middlesex Community College where I received my Associates degree in Criminal Justice. In addition to taking classes at MxCC, I started EMT school where I quickly became more interested in the field. I earned my EMT certification in January of 2015 and soon after joined the Middlefield Volunteer Fire Department. This is the most fun, exciting and rewarding experience I have ever had. At this point was when I decided I am more interested in pursuing a career related to fire and EMS. I enjoy spending time outdoors, hunting, fishing, and camping. I also enjoy watching football, Go Patriots! My plan for the future is to get experience as an EMT, possibly advance to Paramedic school, and eventually become part of a paid fire department. I am looking forward to furthering my skills at ASM.

Andy Hernandez:    FULL TIME, EMT. My name is Andres but everyone calls me Andy and I am 24 years old. I was born in Cali, Colombia and I arrived in the US at the age of ten. I have lived in East Hartford since then and graduated in 2009 with high honors. I have worked in the Emergency Room at Manchester Memorial Hospital as registration staff for approximately three years. I decided to become an EMT as my first step to my career of becoming a PA. I took my EMT course at Code One Training Solutions this past Spring. I am currently enrolled in Manchester Community College as a Business Management student, but decided to take a break from it since working in the Emergency Room made me realize that I enjoy interacting with people as much as providing care for them. One of my biggest goals in life is getting into Quinnipiac, were I hope to resume my studies and obtain a degree. I enjoy different activities on my days off. One of my biggest hobbies is playing soccer because that is one the most popular sports in my country. I also enjoy going to the gym where I had the pleasure of meeting the Great Khali.

Russell Jones:   FULL TIME, EMT. Hello! My name is Russell Jones and I am 25 years old.  I am originally from Wethersfield, CT but currently live in Columbia, CT.  I graduated from Wethersfield High School in 2008.  Having enlisted in the CT Air National Guard my senior year I left two weeks after graduation for basic training.  After returning I started classes at Eastern CT State University for Business Administration in 2009 and graduated in 2013. Upon graduation I started a business with a buddy of mine that I still work with (on the side) today. I recently became very interested in pursuing a career in healthcare after realizing the office setting was not for me.  I finished my EMT class at Code One Solutions in June and could not be more excited to have been offered a job at ASM! I plan to further my healthcare career by pursuing a paramedic license in addition to a second bachelors degree in nursing.  My ultimate goal is to work with LifeStar.  I enjoy playing golf and am an avid snowboarder. I do try and be outdoors as often as possible but at the same time enjoy playing video games.  I have always been very cool headed and excited to help people.  A fun fact about me is that I received this job offer on my birthday and could not have received a better birthday present!  I look forward to working as an EMT with such a great company as ASM and excited to see what the future holds for me.    

Walter Valenica:    FULL TIME, EMT. My name is Walter, I am 24 years old I’ve grew up and lived in Manchester for pretty much my entire life, since 2007 I have been a volunteer firefighter which has introduced me to EMS. Almost immediately I decided to become a career firefighter as my ultimate career goal, I particularly enjoy helping the community especially during people’s time in need.  After high school, I enlisted in the Marine Corps Reserves and speaking to the Corpsmen from the Navy, and watching the EMTs of my fire department really pushed me to obtain my EMT certification, so that I can be an even greater asset to the community. I’m really excited to practice my skills and learn a lot from everyone with ASM.

EMS trained peer counselors to create crisis-support phone line

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Carolyn Edwards 2By EMS1 Staff

Read the full article here…

HARTFORD, Conn. — A Connecticut foundation is raising support to launch a statewide confidential and anonymous Peer Support phone line for EMS providers by the end of 2015.

The Carolyn Edwards Foundation, a Connecticut based nonprofit, was formed after Carolyn Edwards, a Manchester EMT, was involved in a motorcycle accident in 2014. The initial mission of the foundation was to support Edwards, her children, and her recovery from a traumatic brain injury.

During the weeks that followed Edward’s injury and the killing of EMT Donavan Alden, at about the same time by a drunk driver, it became evident to the foundation that the EMS community in the state lacked a support structure for stress release and relief. The foundation is undertaking the effort to create a peer support line, from EMS providers, for EMS providers, to provide the support and resources an at-risk EMS provider may need during a time of crisis.

Read more here…

Meet the Newest Members of the Team: ASM Hires Seven

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MANCHESTER — On March 31, 2015 seven EMTs were added to the ASM team. As part of our continued growth ASM and Aetna seek out only the best candidates. We look for employees who are focused on high-quality patient care, are team oriented and conduct themselves in a professional manner. During the orientation, employees learn about company philosophy and goals, quality assurance, and policies and procedures.

Tiffany George:    FULL TIME, EMT. My name is Tiffany and I am 27 years old. I have worked in commercial EMS since 2008 as an EMT and Dispatcher. I recently moved to Manchester with the intention of pursuing a career as an administrative assistant, but quickly learned the position was not for me. I’m glad to have received the opportunity to continue my work in EMS at ASM. I graduated from Naugatuck Valley Community College in 2010 with a degree in General Studies and along with that came my EMT certification. I have also worked as an ER Tech and have received training in phlebotomy and EKGs.  I’m hoping to someday attend Paramedic school, but until that time I am a junior at Post University working towards earning a degree in Marketing. I’m a former pageant competitor and titleholder in the Miss America Organization and spend as much time as I can volunteering within the program. I enjoy leading an active lifestyle, as well as meeting new people. In the free time that I sparsely have I do enjoy spending time with family, friends, and my dog, Pippa, as well as baking tasty treats.

Robert Grzywinski:    FULL TIME, EMT. Hello my name Robert Grzywinski and I am 37 years old. Originally I was born in Wroclaw, Poland an arrived to the U.S at the age of five. My family settled down in New Britain where I graduated from Mary Immaculate Academy. I currently live in Coventry and enjoy the different pace of life. For over ten years I worked with children and adolescents in different capacities, from a direct care counselor in a safe home, extended day treatment, residential, and a day school servicing special education and behaviorally defiant adolescents. For most of my career I have worked to assist others, so it came to no surprise that I went on to obtain my EMT certification through CPR Professionals out of South Windsor and am looking forward to starting an exciting and new profession. In my free time I enjoy do some DIY projects around the house as well as cooking. The rest of the time I spend with my family, barbecuing, going to parks, beaches, attractions for the kiddos or just hanging around the house with them.

Chelsea Heitman:    FULL TIME, EMT.  My name is Chelsea Heitman.  I took the EMT course at Springfield Technical Community College in 2010 and have been a volunteer EMT at Suffield Volunteer Ambulance Association since 2012.  I got into EMS because I want to help people in their time of need or their family members, like the paramedic did for my mom when my dad passed.  While at Central Connecticut State University I decided I wanted to become a Paramedic.  Since then I left CCSU and am currently finishing the Paramedic program at Springfield College with plans to finish my degree.  I was able to put my knowledge to the test while doing clinical study at Baystate Medical Center and my ride time with in Springfield, MA.  I was a Patient Care Technician at Baystate Medical Center in the ER and saw a wide variety of patients doing everything from changing patients, to vital signs, to EKGs, and to lab draws.  In my spare time I like to snowboard, run, and generally spend time outside.  I am a pretty easy going person with a loving personality.  I am excited to start working with ASM and see what the future holds for me

Charles Lodge:    FULL TIME, EMT. My name is Charles Lodge. I am 24 years old and currently reside in Glastonbury, CT. I graduated from Glastonbury High School in 2008 and went on to earn my Bachelors Degree from the University of Connecticut in 2012. After college I moved to Washington D.C. and worked as an Arborist for one of the largest commercial and residential tree care companies in the country. After moving back to Connecticut I decided it was time to chase my dream of a career in public service. I am extremely excited to learn new skills and apply my training as an EMT. Besides a career in Arbor culture, some of my professional experience includes Community Outreach for underprivileged youths, bar tending, and serving as a Marine Science Technician in the U.S. Coast Guard Reserve

Christopher Tevnan:   FULL TIME, EMT.  My name is Chris Tevnan, I am 32 years old and live in Farmington.  I went to Bridgewater State University in Bridgewater, MA and graduated with a degree in Aviation.  For the last six years I was a Federal Agent with Homeland Security in NYC.  It was a great job but I was never home.  In January I completed the accelerated EMT course with CPR Training Professionals in South Windsor.  I’m excited to begin a new career within the medical field and to be able to really make a difference in someone’s life.  My wife and I are happy that I will be around more often especially with our daughter Brooke expected in early May.  In my free time I volunteer with the Tunxis Hose Fire Department, spend time with family and friends, BBQ, and do work at our new house.

Nora Young:   FULL TIME, EMT. My name is Nora Young. I am 21 years old and currently live in Storrs, CT. I am finishing up undergrad at UConn and will be graduating in May with a degree in Physiology and Neurobiology. My goal is to eventually attend PA school. I am also a volunteer EMT in Ellington where I thoroughly enjoy giving back to the community. I am a die hard UConn Huskies basketball fan as well as a Patriots fan. I am very excited to be working at ASM where I can further my education in the EMS field.

Information for the seventh new hire has been removed.

Meet the Newest Members of the Team: Aetna Hires Nine

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HARTFORD — On March 27, 2015 seven EMTs and two Paramedics were added to the Aetna team. As part of our continued growth Aetna and ASM seek out only the best candidates. We look for employees who are focused on high-quality patient care, are team oriented and conduct themselves in a professional manner. During the orientation, employees learn about company philosophy and goals, quality assurance, and policies and procedures.

Raymond Berwick:   FULL TIME, EMT. My name is Raymond Berwick and I am 21 years old. I currently live in Ellington, Connecticut. I was born in Vernon but moved from Connecticut to North Carolina at a young age and then on to Mississippi. I eventually ended up finishing out my high school years at Rockville High School, right here in Connecticut. As soon as I could hold a hammer I was building various things with my father. Naturally after high school I quickly became a carpenter. I joined the United States Army Reserve which is where I has my first contact with emergency medicine. I took a “combat life saver course” and immediately knew I loved it. Just the thought of helping people on one of the worst days of their life. Or the possibility of maybe one day being able to save one of my brothers or sisters in arms is amazing. I run a “small time hobby farm” which includes around 30 chickens and a few pigs. In my spare time I enjoy hunting, fishing, backpacking and camping. I cannot wait to explore this new chapter of my life and I am counting down the days until orientation.

Israel Cardona:    FULL TIME, EMT. My name is Israel Cardona Jr. and I am 23 years old. I was born and raised in Hartford, CT. I received my GED with Honors in 2011 and then graduated from Lincoln Technical Institute in New Britain for Medical Assisting. Since then I have worked for both U.S Security Associates and Allied Barton Security Services for the past two years now. I have worked primarily as security for the Phoenix Life Insurance company in Downtown Hartford. I started as a part-time third shift officer and I was fortunate enough to land a supervisor position within a year. While working at the Phoenix I attended the EMT-Basic course at Code One Solutions in East Hartford which was a great experience and made my decision to be an EMT one I would not regret. I went for my EMT-B certification because I love the challenges that the EMS field faces and know that it is a career that would always push me to learn more. Although I will miss my friends and coworkers at the Phoenix I look forward to working alongside the Aetna Ambulance staff for many years to come. Within the next year I hope to attend paramedic school to further my knowledge in the EMS field.

Joseph Kosswig:     FULL TIME, EMT. Hello my Name is Joseph Kosswig, I am 23 years old and from Plainville, CT. About five years ago years ago I joined the Volunteer Fire Department in Plainville. When I started there I completed fire school and loved helping people in their time of need. I enjoyed it so much I decided to continue my education and took an EMT-B course at New Britain EMS Academy. It was a fast course, full time over a span of a six week period in the Summer of 2013. During the time of this course I began to take on as much ride time with New Britain EMS as I possibly could, as a student. I loved helping the patients and knew I wanted to continue my career. During this time I have also been enlisted in the CT Army National Guard, serving as part of the Charlie Company in the 1-102 INF. I have been in the military for about five years now in which I have taken on the responsibilities of a Team Leader. I have also completed a couple of military courses such as Army Mountain Warfare School and Warriors Leadership Course. I have been a student at Tunxis Community College for a few semesters now and have only eight classes to finish my degree. I plan on finishing my degree and hopefully one day I become a Paramedic. I look forward to starting my career at Aetna Ambulance and becoming part of the greatest team.

Muath Omari:    FULL TIME, EMT. My name is Muath Omari, I am 27 years old. I am newly married and having my first born son this year. I thank Aetna for giving me the chance to start my new life with a wonderful new career with their company. I love helping people and love the emergency medical field. I am grew up in the streets of NYC most of my life. CT is my new home for my new family. I have work hard to achieve my goals. I have struggled through many obstacles in life to get to where I am today and plan to finish school as a paramedic. My life has changed for the better, but the man who loves football and cars will never change. Now I will look forward about teaching my son about all the things I learned in life and loved in life. Thank you to everyone at Aetna who believed in giving me a chance.

Dennis Pelletier:    FULL TIME, EMT. My name is Dennis Pelletier, I am 26 years old and currently live in Windsor, CT. I grew up in Coventry and joined the US Air Force right out of high school. I served five years in the Air Force in Security Forces and I was fortunate enough to travel around the world and live in Turkey and Guam for some time. My deployment to Iraq opened me up to EMS and I discovered I had a passion for it. Once out of the Air Force I started college and worked at Cabelas in the firearms section. I took my EMT class in the Summer of 2014 at Code One in East Hartford and I currently have an Associates Degree in Homeland Security from Goodwin College in East Hartford. I am also finishing up my Bachelors degree in Public Safety and Security at Goodwin. My ultimate career goal is to have a career in emergency management however EMS is not just a stepping stone, I see it as a career as well. I eventually want to get my Paramedic license and a Master’s Degree in emergency management with a focus on public health. I am excited to begin a career with Aetna Ambulance and to provide a public service.

David Rivera Jr:     FULL TIME, EMT. My name is David Rivera Jr. I am 27 years old and currently reside in East Hartford, CT. I became a certified EMT about two years ago. I am a volunteer member of the Manchester Fire Department as a Firefighter/EMT. I have always been so interested in how the human body works and its functions. That small fire really burned within me when I went on my ride along with Aetna while working on my certification. Volunteering with the fire department and going on emergency calls just confirmed that this was what I wanted to do. Everyone in this world has a purpose/calling and I truly believe that this is mine. I am a new father to a beautiful baby girl. I will take care of every child as if they were my own. I will a care of every mom, dad, brother, sister, grandmother and grandfather as if they were my own. I spend my free time with my family, loved ones and two dogs. I give thanks to God as He is the rock in my life. My hobbies are working out, fishing and reading. I am blessed and thankful for this opportunity with Aetna and I look forward to the experiences and room for growth.

Shawn Testa:    FULL TIME, EMT. My name is Shawn Testa and I was born and raised in Bristol, CT. I am a six-year veteran of the United States Army. After graduating high school I joined the Army as an Airborne Infantry Medic and was stationed in North Carolina for four years. I was deployed for two combat tours in Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom VIII and X with the 82nd Airborne Division. I was attached to an infantry company of the 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment and participated in daily patrols as the first line of immediate medical attention. Aside from battlefield medicine, I was responsible for clinical and daily care of the soldiers in my unit. The final two years of my military career were completed as a reservist in New York. After my initial enlistment I went to school and recently graduated from Tunxis Community College with an Associates Degree in Science. I enjoy spending time out doors and camping with my family and close friends. My favorite holiday is The Fourth of July. America!

Eric Thepsiri:     FULL TIME, Paramedic. My name is Eric Thepsiri, I’m 22 and I grew up in Vernon, CT.  I first got started in EMS when I became an EMT at 16.  My first call was a respiratory arrest.  I remember being excited, nervous and scared all at the same time. When I began to bag the patient and they started breathing again, it was the best feeling I’ve ever felt. That was the call that sparked my love for medicine. I decided to continue my education at the University of Connecticut as a pre-med student.  As I was going through my studies at Uconn, I came to the realization I wanted more out of my education. Not only did I want a degree but I wanted my education to be practical.  I wanted to learn how to care for patients, how to make tangible differences and explore emergency medicine. Therefore, after my junior year at Uconn, I decided to become a paramedic. I enrolled in Goodwin College/Hartford Hospital’s Paramedic Program, where I recently graduated in December 2014. Currently, I work as an EMT for the town of Vernon and help to teach with the Department of EMS Education at Hartford Hospital. When I’m not working, I enjoy spending my time with friends and family, taking pictures, traveling and providing sustainable medical care overseas. I’m excited to start my journey in paramedicine here as a member of the Aetna Family, while continuing my education towards medical school.”

Information unavailable on ninth new hire at time post was published; a full time Paramedic.  

Meet the Newest Members of the Team: ASM Hires Five

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MANCHESTER — On February 4, 2015 five EMTs were added to the ASM team. As part of our continued growth ASM and Aetna seek out only the best candidates. We look for employees who are focused on high-quality patient care, are team oriented and conduct themselves in a professional manner. During the orientation, employees learn about company philosophy and goals, quality assurance, and policies and procedures.

Tiffany Armas:     FULL TIME, EMT. My name is Tiffany and I’m 23 years old.  I was born in Caracas, Venezuela and moved here when I was ten.  I graduated from UCONN in May with a B.S. in Allied Health and a minor in Biology.  I currently work per diem at the UCONN Student Health Services Laboratory and I’m trained in phlebotomy.  I love working in the medical field and am super excited to be involved in emergency care.  In my spare time I like to cook, practice yoga, and anything involving being outdoors.  I’m also trying to teach myself Portuguese and after that, hopefully another language.  I love traveling and learning about different cultures and hope to one day be able to volunteer around the US as well as the rest of the world as a doctor to help communities in need.

Cheryl Everest:    FULL TIME, EMT. My name is Cheryl Everest I am 23 years old and currently live in Simsbury. I take great pride in helping people everyday in our community. I took my  EMT course three years ago and almost instantly fell in love with EMS. I recently graduated from Tunxis Community College with my associates. In my spare time I like to hike with my dog and spend time with my horses. I also volunteer with Simsbury Ambulance. I could not be more pleased to be able to turn my EMS passion into a career with ASM. I plan to further my career in emergency medical a services and become a paramedic.

Patrick Gleason:    FULL TIME, EMT. My name is Patrick Gleason, I am 43 years old and l live in Manchester, CT. At age 18 I joined the Army and served four years active duty with the 25th Infantry Division.  I assumed the duties of squad leader and particularly enjoyed the time I spent at Combat Life Saver School.  I went on to work as a Regional Director and Project Manager in the business world but always yearned to acquire an occupation in the medical field.  In 2014 I completed an EMT course at Code One in East Hartford and obtained my license. I love to learn new things and am looking forward to a more meaningful career by making a difference in the lives of those I serve as an EMT.  The experience I will gain in the field as an EMT will help to prepare me for my ultimate goal of becoming a Paramedic. I spend my free time with my wife and two kids, attend and volunteer at our church and am assistant coach for basketball at the kids school.  I am excited and grateful for this new opportunity.

Jonathan Sanchez:     FULL TIME, EMT. My name is Jonathan Sanchez and I am 22 years old and from New Britain, CT. I graduated from Tunxis Community College with an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice. My career goal is to become a police officer and to do the best I can to support the communities and the laws in place. In 2012 I got my first job at St. Francis Hospital & Medical Center as a transportation tech. With this job I became exposed to the hospital environment and was intrigued by the hospital environment and how much health care providers make a difference in the people they help. That’s when I decided to become an EMT. I obtained my certification last year and since July I have had the pleasure to work in the Emergency Room as an ER Technician which is basically an EMT within the ER. I have seen many different types of patients, from basic toe pain to cardiac arrests. I have done all types of different jobs and procedures within the ER and I love the fact that I get to actually help people out when they are in need and potentially help save a life. I look forward to working with the ASM crew and learning new things and incorporate what I already know on the road. I look forward to the future with the ambulance service and hope to take what I have learned and incorporate that in my career later on in life!

How to Send Love and Well Wishes to Jason Martinez, Hartford Fire Department

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Jason MartinezMANCHESTER — On October 7, 2014 Manchester resident Jason Martinez, a firefighter with Hartford Fire Department was injured in the line of duty in a fire that took the life of fellow firefighter Kevin Bell.

Martinez has been recovering in the burn center at Bridgeport Hospital. You can send him your support, love and well wishes online by clicking here…