Two Generations Creating Healthy Communities at MyMichigan EMS in Midland

Frank and Carrie Gilbert, a father-daughter EMS duo, stand together in front of a MyMichigan Health ambulance.

Frank Gilbert has been a paramedic for MyMichigan Health’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS) team for more than 28 years. He has seen quite a mix of trauma, rescue and healing over the years. One of the best things he’s seen is his youngest child, Carrie, out in the field as a next-generation emergency medical technician (EMT).

Frank wasn’t planning on a career as a paramedic. In fact, he was pursuing his real estate license. When he and his wife were bringing their first son home from the hospital, the baby stopped breathing. The panic Frank felt not knowing what to do or how to administer CPR to his son compelled him to take an EMT course.

“Thank goodness our son was ok,” shared Frank, who is a resident of Kawkawlin and also volunteers for his hometown fire department. “He had severe sleep apnea which caused breathing interruptions, and it was a scary time. I knew I didn’t want to feel helplessness like that again, so I signed up for a class to ensure I’d know what to do in an emergency situation with my family. Part of the course involved riding with EMT professionals to get a sense of what was required for the job. After I had done a couple of ride-alongs, I was hooked.”

Carrie, also a resident of Kawkawlin, thought she wanted to be a veterinarian but after a few college classes discovered it wasn’t for her. She switched her course of study to law enforcement and thought becoming an EMT would help her prepare for her new career path. Work hours as an EMT have proved to be flexible around her college schedule as well.

“I took classes in Midland starting in my senior year of high school and then tested for national certification, which was challenging,” Carrie shared. “I find helping people as an EMT very rewarding and have been able to work a couple of shifts with my dad. He’s a great teacher and lets me do things to gain experience rather than just taking control – unless I need assistance, of course.”

“The Gilberts are carrying out MyMichigan Health’s purpose of Creating Healthy Communities – Together on each and every shift,” said John Clayton, director, EMS. “Frank has been a dedicated provider for nearly 30 years. Having two generations of Gilberts now serving our patients is something special.”

Frank is proud to see his daughter approaching a variety of situations with a calm head. “She does very well. I’m also a volunteer firefighter, and she has joined me on some fire calls in our area. I think she will make an excellent police officer,” he said.

Frank is pleased that Carrie chose to join him with MyMichigan Health as an employer. He appreciates the teamwork and said colleagues help each other out. “I have worked other places, and MyMichigan holds themselves to a higher standard,” he shared. “I am glad she’s learning from such a strong organization. MyMichigan also has a supportive culture and family atmosphere. When someone has something personal come up, the attitude is ‘family first.’”

Frank has delivered babies, treated traumas, helped the elderly in need and had more rewarding experiences than he could name. “I continue to be inspired by my job, solving problems and making people’s lives better,” he said. Now, he’s passing it on to Carrie.

Those interested in exploring becoming an EMT and working with MyMichigan Health may contact Trish Thayer-Knivila, operations supervisor, Midland EMS, at (989) 633-1315 or visit www.mymichigan.org/careers and search EMS.