Melissa Parker
Melissa Parker is a dedicated FTO Paramedic with over 25 years of experience serving the Cleveland County community in North Carolina. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a deep commitment to providing exceptional emergency medical care, mentoring new paramedics, and ensuring the highest standards of patient care. Her hands-on experience in the field has made her a trusted leader and educator within the EMS community.
In addition to her work as a paramedic, Melissa has devoted more than two decades to educating the next generation of emergency medical professionals. She has served as an EMS Instructor at both Western Piedmont Community College since 2007 and Cleveland Community College since 2002. Her teaching combines real-world experience with a passion for training skilled, compassionate first responders, ensuring that her students are well-prepared to meet the demands of this critical profession.
Melissa’s professional development extends beyond EMS. She has earned multiple certifications, including specialized training in human resources and leadership, demonstrating her commitment to continuous growth and versatility in her field. With a strong foundation in both emergency medical services and education, Melissa Parker continues to make a lasting impact on her community and the future of EMS through her dedication, expertise, and leadership.
• A Crash Course in Writing Well: Learn to Write with More Style, Flair, and Impact
• Cleveland Community College - A.A.S.
• National Registry EMT-P
• Corinth Baptist Church senior activities committee
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my family. Their unwavering support, guidance, and encouragement have been the foundation that allows me to pursue my goals with confidence and resilience.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to leave the job at the job. Maintaining balance and separating work from personal life helps me stay focused, energized, and bring my best self to both professional and personal commitments.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering my industry is not to be swayed by clichés or limiting expectations. You can achieve anything you set your mind to—confidence, persistence, and believing in your own abilities are your greatest tools for success.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenges in my field right now include the national workforce shortage and bridging the generational gap. These issues also present opportunities—to innovate in recruitment, mentorship, and knowledge-sharing, ensuring that both new and experienced professionals can thrive together.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are honesty, integrity, accountability, and being a team player. These principles have guided me throughout my career and personal journey, and this year I am also celebrating thirty years of marriage—a milestone that reflects the importance of commitment and trust in all areas of life.