Lethbridge Fire and Emergency Services celebrates graduation of new Firefighter Paramedics

Lethbridge Fire and Emergency Services (LFES) proudly announces the graduation of seven new Firefighter Paramedics, a key milestone in their careers. The graduation ceremony took place on July 3, 2024, at Fire Station #4 in North Lethbridge.

The recruits have completed an intensive 12-week training program, preparing them with essential firefighting and rescue skills. The training covered a wide range of life-saving techniques, from vehicle extrication to hazardous materials awareness.

“We subject ourselves to rigorous training because our lives, and the lives of those we serve, depend on it,” says Sean Larkin, LFES Lead Fire Training Officer for the Spring 2024 recruit class. “Lethbridge is in capable hands with this batch of recruits. They are exceptionally well-prepared.”  

Since 1912, LFES has been a pioneer in providing integrated fire and emergency medical services. The department's commitment to excellence is exemplified by its A+ score in meeting or exceeding over 300 standards for Emergency Medical Services Accreditation from Accreditation Canada. Additionally, LFES's high-performance CPR benchmarks are ranked among the best in Alberta. 

“If you want to work at a place that pushes you to be the best paramedic you can be, then LFES is where you want to be,” adds Larkin, “Lethbridge is setting the standard.”

The department offers a dynamic and rewarding career for all members. There are numerous opportunities for career advancement and additional training through its specialty teams like Water Rescue, High Angle Rescue, Hazmat, and the upcoming Tactical EMS (TEMS). 

After completing their initial training, the recruits will start as probationary Firefighter Paramedics on July 4. They are already assigned to their respective platoons and are ready to serve the Lethbridge community. 
“These recruits have shown remarkable dedication and teamwork, exceeding our expectations through their training,” noted Larkin.

“With their advanced life support and CPR training, these recruits are well-prepared to tackle the demands of our dynamic work environment and provide the best care to Lethbridge citizens,” says Adam Perrett, LFES Medical Training Officer. 

Greg Adair, Chief of Fire and EMS, expressed his pride in the new graduates, “this recruit cohort embodies our department’s dedication to excellence. We are thrilled to have them on our team, and we are confident they will continue our tradition of exceptional service.”

The new LFES Firefighter Paramedics are: 
•    Andrew Schurtz, PCP 
•    Dorothy Graham, ACP
•    Hunter Sylvestre, ACP
•    Justin Coulter, PCP 
•    Luke Edel, ACP
•    Serena Wallace, ACP
•    Steven Oleskyn, PCP

The LFES team is dedicated to safeguarding our community with professionalism, skill and compassion. The graduating recruits are ready to take on this responsibility and contribute to the department’s mission of providing exceptional emergency services.

LFES invites those interested in becoming Firefighter Paramedics to apply for the next recruit class at www.lethbridge.ca/careers.

For Public Inquiries:
Call or Chat with 311 | Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.