Nicole Atkinson

Nicole Atkinson completed her EMT training in the summer of 2023 and wasted no time jumping into the industry full-time. Atkinson currently works as a full-time EMT at Quality EMS and as a volunteer firefighter at Moon Township Fire Company in the Greater Pittsburgh area.

One of the impressive feats about Atkinson is not only did she complete her EMT training with NPRC around this time last year, but she also graduated from Penn State Behrend in the same month with a degree in psychology. During college, she became a volunteer firefighter for Brookside Fire Company and wanted to aid in EMS, too. “The Company immediately placed me into the NPRC program to become an EMT. I wanted a job that I enjoyed going to and that I could make a difference in, and it was clear to me that working in EMS was what I was looking for.”

Her experience at NPRC was a great one and helped her meet other like-minded professionals. “NPRC gave me the experience, knowledge and opportunity to follow a passion and turn it into a career. Working in EMS has been extremely rewarding and there’s no other career I would rather pursue than being a first responder. I felt extremely prepared for my class exams and the National Registry. I enjoyed how hands on the program was because it prepared me to use the skills I now utilize every day. My instructor Brian Byers and everyone who helped my class through this program were knowledgeable and wanted everyone to succeed.

The program requirement for ride-alongs was also a highlight because I got to put my skills and knowledge to the test and see how professional EMTs and Paramedics function. I did my ride-along with EmergyCare and after working a 12-hour shift with them, it further confirmed that this was the career path that was right for me. The crew I was with was extremely helpful and I got to go on numerous calls with them which exposed me to many different patient care scenarios."

Outside of her career in public safety, Atkinson is a talented artist, enjoys spending time with her two dogs, going on long hikes, and volunteering as a firefighter. She also plans to continue her studies to become a paramedic in the future. We can't wait to see what's in store in your future, Nicole!