Kate Curtis-Roos

July 2026 Issue—Red, White & Brave

Photography (top) by Cassidy Dunn Photography


Kate Curtis-Roos

Current Residence: Bluffton
Hometown: Milford, Ohio

Career & Rank: Driver/Operator, Paramedic (Bluffton Township) Paramedic (Hardeeville FD)

Family: Sons Ben (8) and Owen (6)

Favorite Hobby: I love to go camping and be outside

What inspired you to pursue such a challenging career?
I enjoy the medical aspect of emergency response. I began my career as an EMT-Basic in 2012 and worked with Beaufort County EMS. Then I went to Paramedic school in 2016 and made the switch to the Fire Department in 2021. I have found I equally enjoy the physical challenge of the job. And the camaraderie at the fire department has been a wonderful experience. I love to be a part of a team, and my crew at Bluffton Township Fire Department has been a huge blessing in my life.

What is the No. 1 thing you would teach women about safety?
Never underestimate what you’re capable of. Your intuition and awareness are important to overall safety, but your ability to learn new skills and educate yourself is a huge part of safety for women.

What gave you the courage to fearlessly pursue your passion?
As a teenager, I was a lifeguard at a local pool. It was my first introduction to CPR and Basic Life Support. When I graduated high school, I attended The Ohio State University, where I studied Cultural Anthropology and Public Health. When I graduated, I got a summer job as a lifeguard for Shore Beach Services on Hilton Head Island. This led me straight into EMT school and started my journey into fire service. My familiarity with CPR and American Heart Association programs gave me extra confidence when transitioning to the full Emergency Medical Technician certification.

If you could tell the world anything, what would it be?
I have two sons, and I say to them often, “You can’t be brave unless you’re scared first.” There are so many wonderful things in life that are just outside your comfort zone. Challenging yourself to be just a little braver, kinder, or stronger will help you understand who you can be as a person.

Who has made the biggest difference in your life so far?
My mother! She is a strong and confident woman who educated herself and has supported my growth in the fire service. As a successful woman in her own career, she knows the value of growth and passion for women in their work both inside and outside of the home. My mom recognizes the amazing career and training opportunities I have been offered and continually supports me and her grandsons.

Are you specialized in anything or have you received elevated training?
I am a Certified Flight Paramedic (FP-C) and have completed University of Florida’s Critical Care Paramedic Program. I am also a Certified Community Paramedic (CP-C). I enjoy teaching and maintain my instructor certifications in Basic Life Support, Advanced Life Support and EMT.

What are the words you live by?
“If it was easy, everyone would do it.” Whenever I get overwhelmed or discouraged, this saying reminds me that the things I want to achieve may not come quickly or easily.

Have you seen or done anything you never thought you would see or do?
A few summers ago, I completed multiple sprint triathlons. In the fall of 2023, I completed my first Ironman 70.3 in Augusta, GA. It was a challenge and a huge accomplishment for me.

As a mom, is it hard to work in such a tough world and not take it home with you? How do you juggle it all?
Being a mom in the fire service has been a challenge. I know beyond a doubt that my family support system is what allows me to be successful in all my roles. My sons make me a better paramedic. It is difficult to look at a patient now and not think empathetically. Each patient is someone’s child, mother, father, sister, brother, or spouse. I want to be the care provider who I would want to care for my sons. It takes work to remember that some days, but I joined Fire and EMS to be of service to others. Those things help me to juggle all of the challenges of being a mom in the fire service.