UPHS — Marquette Heroes | Eric Wolf, EMT-P

Eric Wolf, Paramedic at UP Health System – Marquette.

What is your role at UP Health System – Marquette?
I am a Paramedic at UP Health System – Marquette.

What was your inspiration for getting into healthcare?
My father was a paramedic and trained throughout the Upper Peninsula. Growing up, he would bring me along, so I’ve been around EMS my whole life. He signed me up for a basic EMT class back in 2001 and it just worked for me.

What’s a typical day like for you? What is it like working in this field?
Each day can vary from busy to slow. You never really know what you’re going to get into when it comes to EMS, so we must be prepared for it all. As the first-responders to a scene, it’s up to you and your partner to have life or death critical thinking in order to care for your patient before they can get to the Emergency Room — and the team of doctors and nurses waiting there. It’s rewarding, it’s challenging, and requires you to be able to think on your feet.

Our team at UPHSM completes Advanced Life Support (ALS) and Basic Life Support (BLS) transfers throughout the Upper Peninsula and even lower Michigan and Wisconsin. We are the only ALS coverage for Marquette County so we handle all different types of 911 calls — from pediatric to geriatric.

How long have you been employed here? Have you always been in the same position?
I started as a basic EMT and worked my way up to paramedic. I’ve been employed at UPHS for almost 19 years now.

What are some of the big changes you have experienced in this position?
The field of EMS is always changing. New protocols and more advanced equipment are coming out all the time. The COVID-19 pandemic really changed everything, as well. As a first-responder, you never know when you will encounter a COVID-19 positive patient. We’re extremely cautious when our team arrives at the scene, especially if we need to enter your home, and we’re always wearing proper PPE.

What are some of your interests outside of work? What is your favorite local gem?
I am married and we have three kids, so that occupies most of my time. My family and I enjoy being outdoors and camping in the summer. I also enjoy hunting in the fall. The Marquette area is a gem in itself, and I love living here.

What do you enjoy most about working at UPHS – Marquette?
I enjoy being able to do what I love right here in my hometown.