01/12/2026
We’re kicking off the first Meet ’Em Monday of 2026 by introducing Matthew Welsch, CCP, FP-C. 🚁🚑🚨
Matthew brings advanced critical care expertise, professionalism, and a passion for patient care to every mission. We’re proud to have him on our Air Evac team!
We put him in the hot seat with a fresh round of questions:
1.) What inspired you to work in Helicopter EMS? As a paramedic, HEMS I believe is one of the most challenging environments you can work in. It requires you to continually learn and expand your knowledge base and maintain your skills at the highest level. Being able to do that every shift is why I pursued this career in HEMS. One of my first calls when I was a new EMT, I got to experience working directly with a flight crew on a critical patient, and I knew from that moment that this was what I wanted to do. Seeing the flight crew’s ability to manage a critically injured patient and work as a team was something I wanted.
2.) Can you share moment from a flight that reminded you why your work matters? One of my first flights was a pediatric patient that required use of all my skills and knowledge that I have gained so far. It reminded me why I have spent so many years in EMS working towards this goal.
3.) What is one skill or trait that is essential for working on a medical helicopter that most people might not expect? Having a thorough understanding of the regulations and knowledge of aviation related content- i.e. weather, flight stressors, aircraft operations,etc.
4.) If you were not in healthcare what career would you be doing? I would want to continue flying- I think I would pursue aviation and become a pilot as a career. I pursued getting my private pilot’s license, but this career allows me to enjoy both things I am passionate about.
5.) What do you do to recharge on your days off ? Most of my days off are spent with my 3 amazing children making memories and watching them grow. I enjoy spending time with my girlfriend and am looking forward to our upcoming trips. I also enjoy a good baseball game, Go Dodgers!
6.) What is your favorite aspect of being a flight medic? Getting to work with a nurse has allowed me to see patient care from a new perspective that highlights each providers’ skillset and experience for the best possible outcome for each patient encounter.
7.) What is something you would want to tell other future flight crew members about this job and how to pursue it? Never say no to an opportunity to gain experience or to enhance your skillset. Learn something from every call and be open to criticism and feedback.
