Breaking Barriers and Saving Lives 

Historically, the field of paramedicine has been male dominated, with women often facing significant challenges in entering and advancing within the profession. Despite these obstacles, many women have persevered, breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations. Their presence in the field is a testament to their resilience, determination and passion for helping others.

York Region Paramedic Services’ Special Response Unit (SRU), a specialized team of Advanced Care Paramedics working in specialized environments with allied partners such as York Regional Police, currently has three female staff.  

Since 2008, the SRU has undergone rigorous physical and mental training, as well as testing to respond to calls that stretch beyond a typical 911 call such as tactical response, mass casualty incidents, search and rescue, rope rescue, marine response and CBRNE (Chemical, Biological, Radioactive, Nuclear and Explosives) calls.  

Currently the SRU consists of 24 Advanced Care Paramedics operating out of a fleet of five vehicles, including three technical rescue vehicles and two special operations SUVs, to provide adequate coverage throughout York Region.  

Julie Grainger, Lead Paramedic, Special Operations, and an original member of the group, reflects on her time with SRU, which has grown from a four-person team to a 24-person unit.

Early in my career, there were moments I felt the need to prove myself more than my male counterparts in terms of strength, skills and handling pressure. There were instances where I had to work harder to be taken seriously, but consistently showing my competence earned me respect. Navigating gender role assumptions in high-stress environments was challenging, but I used it as motivation to excel in special operations.

The work is tough, emotionally as well as physically, but make no mistake about it, women are a growing presence in the field of paramedicine and reaching further into specialized roles such as SRU, community paramedicine, and leadership roles.  

In recognition of International Women’s Day, join us in applauding the heroic contributions of our female paramedics and other emergency services professionals, who are paving the way for generations to come.  

In 2025, York Region Paramedic Services is celebrating 25 years of Compassion and Care. To learn more about York Region Paramedic Services, visit york.ca/Paramedics or follow @YorkParamedics.