Frontenac Paramedics Deputy Chief recognized by the Ontario Association of Paramedic Chiefs

Each year, the Ontario Association of Paramedic Chiefs (OAPC) recognizes outstanding paramedics for “their actions to preserve public health and safety in Ontario, and to advance the profession of paramedicine. This year, a member of Frontenac Paramedic Services was honoured with one of those awards.

Deputy Chief Heather Edward was presented with The Richard J. Armstrong Leadership Award at the OAPC Annual Gala held Thursday, Sept. 26, 2019 in Windsor. The Award recognizes outstanding leadership and significant contributions to the Emergency Medical Services in Ontario.

“Over the course of her career as a paramedic and a leader, Edward progressed to Superintendent and Acting Deputy Commander at Toronto Paramedic Services and now to Deputy Chief at Frontenac Paramedics. Edward leads by example, coaching and mentoring paramedics every day,” OACP said in the reasoning for Edward receiving the recognition.

“She promotes and practices Just Culture, an atmosphere of trust in which healthcare workers are supported and treated fairly even when something goes wrong. Edward is a highly skilled and inspirational leader who has received recognition throughout her life.”

Among her accolades, Edward has received the award for Best Air Cadet in Canada, which was presented by Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. Edward obtained her Master of Arts degree in Leadership in 2018 from the University of Guelph, and also holds a Mini-MBA in Management Studies from the Christopher J. Rubes Center for Paramedic Studies in Toronto.

In addition, Edward is also the Chair of the Leadership Development Committee with the Paramedic Chiefs of Canada, where she led a team in the development of the Paramedic Leadership Competency Framework 2.0.

“I am very pleased to see Heather recognized with this award for her leadership ability,” said Frontenac Paramedics Chief Gale Chevalier. “Her strong leadership skills were evident during our recruitment process and she has put these skills into practice since joining Frontenac Paramedics this summer.”