Employee Spotlight: Lindsay Martin, EMT at NDP EMS

Long before she was born, Lindsay Martin’s dad Ken began a professional path that would one day help inspire hers.

His wonderful daughter’s middle name was even chosen in tribute to a child who tragically died in a car accident. Ken, a Paramedic and the Assistant Director of Operations at NDP EMS, was on that scene and worked tirelessly to try to save the toddler. Although the little girl didn’t survive, Ken memorialized her by giving Lindsay the middle name “Paige.”

Although Lindsay was not aware of this connection until years later, it was clear early on that she was destined to live her own life in service to others.

Now an Emergency Medical Technician here at NDP, Lindsay recently shared more of her story with us. Here’s our interview:

Lindsay, tell us about your background.

I grew up in the Hudson area and went through my school years there. I graduated from Hudson Jr/Sr High School in 2023. Just two days before my commencement ceremony, I was officially hired at NDP EMS after earning my EMT designation through Questar in Hudson, and have worked here since.

Did you always know you wanted to pursue this field?

Ever since I was a little girl, I loved doing what I could to make others feel happy and included. And I always loved it when I’d chat with my dad and he’d tell me his stories “from the EMS road”. And his mom - my grandma - has a heart of gold and says that about me too. I think she sees that I’ve always felt called to help people, whatever the situation. But yes, looking back it is clear that this was going to be my path…

When I was about 7, my friends were probably reading other books - but I went through the pages of EMS protocol manuals and brochures that my dad would leave around. I loved learning about all of it - even as an elementary school kid!

And when I was 10, I talked about going into the military as a way of being of service.

By age 11 or 12, I discovered that I had been named for that little girl from one of my dad’s emergency calls. That was really moving and inspiring for me.

When I was in middle and high school, if I saw anyone getting picked on or bullied, I’d do what I could to reach out, protect them, and do my part to offer friendship in an ongoing way.

So by the time I had the chance to take the EMT certification course as a senior in high school, I felt ready and excited about this path! My dad helped me through that schooling - and I was also inspired by the fact that his mom was in nursing and my oldest sister worked to become a cardiovascular ICU nurse. It runs in the family and I wanted to be part of that tradition in some way!

What do you most enjoy about working at NDP EMS?

The tagline says it all: every call really is a chance to make a difference. It’s what I want to stand for as a person and as a provider, so it’s the ideal place for me. I work out of the Rhinebeck, Hyde Park, and Livingston stations, and also do dispatch two nights a week. I love the schedule, I love how varied the days are in terms of responsibilities, and I love the people at NDP.

The relationships I have with my coworkers are of course the best part. Every night there’s a different crew on, and it always feels family-oriented (which it is - not only does my dad work there but so does my aunt - and everyone feels like family!). If I have a tough call, everyone is so supportive afterward. Whether my colleagues are helping me restock the truck or just there to have my back, I feel like I have this incredible group of friends behind me always.

What is your favorite part of the Hudson Valley when it comes to going out on calls?

It took me a long time to learn the area in general - but I’d say that my favorite section in terms of scenery is between Rhinebeck and Hyde Park. And the best part about that region is not even the views - it’s the fact that we have such great volunteer fire departments in those towns who are always on the scene to help. Together we all make a great team.

Has there been a moment when you’re on a call and said to yourself: “wow, every call really IS a chance to  make a difference”?

Yes. Recently I helped resuscitate a child who had taken a bad fall; she is doing well and I am so grateful I could help her so that she can live to her full potential now.

What is your vision for your future?

I’m actually registered to start my Paramedic training at SUNY Cobleskill, which I’m thrilled about! This will advance my knowledge and scope of practice while also supporting the growing need for people who have this expertise.

And I plan to continue to use everything I learn as part of the team at NDP EMS for many years to come!

Any advice for a younger person who is interested in this path?

It’s a GREAT career - especially if you have a desire to help people. Even if you decide just to work part-time or per diem, which some people do, you can make big differences in your community while working with a team that always feels like family.

Lastly… Lindsay, what do you like to do with your free time?

Sleep! I prioritize sleep health where I can. And I’m guessing most people who work in EMS totally get that!

If you feel inspired by Lindsay’s story and wish to pursue a career with NDP EMS, call 845.876.0448 to learn more.