Alex Conrad returns to Orcas Fire following graduation from Harborview Paramedic Program

— from Kim Kimple for Orcas Island Fire & Rescue —

After an intense 12-months immersed in the University of Washington Harborview Medical Center Paramedic training program, Alex Conrad has returned to serve the community with Orcas Island Fire and Rescue as a paramedic.

The world-renowned program is known for high-standard education, quality instruction, and unbeatable hands-on opportunities.

“I was able to gain incredible patient contact through access to Harborview’s ER and Seattle Fire’s Medic rigs,” shares Alex, adding, “the biggest challenge was the schedule.”

With countless hours of didactic classroom learning under his belt, Alex further applied his skills to field internships, including 2,200 hours serving on a Medic One ambulance, ample time in Harborview’s emergency room, and multiple trauma and cardiac arrest drills – all which provide a solid foundation of experience for Alex to bring to his role as a rural paramedic.

“We congratulate Alex on his completion of the exacting and intense Harborview paramedic training program,“ applauded OIFR Board Chair, Tim Fuller, “We recognized Alex’s desire, commitment and capability and were confident that he would take this on, succeed and return to Orcas Island Fire and Rescue with this highly needed skill set. Thank you, Alex, for your dedication and hard work.”

• Alex graduated with the 46^th class and is the 8^th San Juan County paramedic to be trained in this program thanks to the generosity of the Medic One Foundation.