From CPR class to the ER: How a high school program sparked a young EMT’s passion for community care

WINTER PARK, Fla. – At just 18 years old, Barbara Fernandez Vazquez has already accomplished what many in the health care field spend years working toward. As a nationally registered emergency medical technician (EMT) and a patient care technician at AdventHealth Winter Park’s emergency department, Barbara is not only living out her passion for helping others but also inspiring the next generation of health care professionals.

In 2018, Barbara embarked on a transformative journey as she left Venezuela to start a new chapter in the United States. Despite not being fluent in English and facing the challenges of adapting to a new culture, she was determined to find her purpose. It was during her time at Winter Park High School that she discovered her passion for emergency response through the school’s Navy Junior ROTC program.

Under the guidance of a new instructor who was eager to expand the program’s community impact, Barbara participated in an after-school program that offered CPR, AED, and First Aid certification through the American Red Cross. From the very first class, Barbara was captivated by the skills and knowledge needed to save lives in critical situations.

Driven by her newfound passion, Barbara quickly became a leader within the program. After dedicating over 12 hours of her weekends to become certified as a CPR instructor, she began training others – from Winter Park High School teachers and local search and rescue team members, to children as young as 8. By the end of her senior year, Barbara and her fellow student instructors had provided over 400 hours of lifesaving training to the community.

“Being able to teach others these skills and knowing that they could go out and save lives in their own communities was incredibly rewarding,” Barbara shared. “I realized that I didn’t have to wait until after high school to make a difference — I could start right away.”

With the support of her ROTC instructors and a scholarship from the Winter Park Foundation, Barbara attended the Orlando Medical Institute and earned her EMT certification shortly after graduating high school in 2024. Through the connections she made during her training, she secured a position in AdventHealth Winter Park’s emergency department, where she now works alongside expert clinical team members, gaining hands-on experience and further solidifying her commitment to health care.

Barbara’s dedication to learning hasn’t stopped there. Currently, she is self-funding her education to become a licensed paramedic and eventually plans to pursue a medical degree.

But what truly makes Barbara’s story so impactful is her continued commitment to giving back. She regularly returns to Winter Park High School to mentor students, sharing her journey and encouraging them to explore opportunities in emergency medical services.

Barbara also emphasizes the critical need for more community members to get trained in CPR and other life-saving skills. With sudden cardiac arrest being one of the leading causes of death in the U.S., having more individuals who are prepared to respond in an emergency can make the difference between life and death.

“CPR is one of the simplest yet most powerful skills a person can learn,” Barbara explained. “You never know when you might be in a situation where you could save someone’s life. By getting trained and certified, you’re not just helping one person — you’re strengthening your entire community.”

Barbara’s story is a testament to the power of determination, education and community support. As we celebrate Women’s History Month, AdventHealth is proud to spotlight young women like Barbara who are not only breaking barriers in health care but are also empowering others to follow in their footsteps.

“I’ve always believed that when you’re passionate about something, you should chase it with everything you have,” Barbara said. “My journey is just beginning, but I hope my story shows others that no matter your age or background, you can make an impact – and save lives while doing it.”