Who we are, what we do

Jeanine Zotzman, Advanced Care Paramedic, Paramedic Researcher: I’ve always been driven by a desire to make a real difference in people’s lives, and early on, that meant being there in the most critical moments as a paramedic. But over time, I saw patterns, gaps, and opportunities that made me realize we could do even better—not just for one patient at a time, but across the system. That’s what drew me into research. I wanted to understand the "why" behind what we do, to help build evidence that improves care not just today, but for years to come. I love knowing that our research has the power to shape the future of paramedicine. It’s incredibly rewarding to still be grounded in the frontline experience while contributing to something bigger that can improve protocols, save lives, and support paramedics in delivering the best care possible. One of the most meaningful parts of my career has been the opportunity to represent our EMS research work on the international stage—sharing insights, learning from global colleagues, and bringing those ideas back home to improve care here in Alberta. But what truly grounds all of that is the chance to connect with the families behind the research. It reminds me that our work is never just about data, it’s about people. Collaborating with families who’ve turned loss into purpose is incredibly humbling and it keeps me focused on the real-world impact of what we do.