Congratulations to our SMS Standout Neil Alleman. Neil assisted with a very heavy COVID-19 outbreak. He was a tremendous help and had a great attitude while dealing with an enormous workload that kept him extremely busy. Thank you, Neil, for going above and beyond!
We were able to get a glimpse into what a day at work looks like for Neil and learn some fun facts about him.
A.A. Describe a typical day at work.
N.A. My daily duties include assessing patients, potable water testing, platform orientations, and assisting with POB.
A.A. What was the best vacation you have ever taken?
N.A. Several years ago, I booked a last-minute solo trip to Gatlinburg, TN, to go hiking. It was the most relaxing vacation I’ve ever been on.
A.A. Describe yourself in one sentence.
N.A. I’d describe myself as very loyal, passionate, and easy-going.
A.A. What is your favorite thing about your job?
N.A. I honestly enjoy being able to take care of those around me. When working offshore, you grow close to other employees like a family. Also, helicopter rides and Gulf of Mexico sunsets!
A.A. What food could you live on for a month?
N.A. Sriracha, I buy it by the gallon. Seriously.
A.A. Do you have a side hustle, hobby, or volunteer group you’re involved in outside work? What else do you spend your time doing?
N.A. I enjoy art, music, gardening, cutting grass, and fishing.
A.A. How do you stay motivated at work?
N.A. Knowing that I may be the only medically trained person for miles and miles always keeps me on my toes and makes me want to keep up to date on skills and knowledge.
A.A. What has been the most fulfilling moment in your career so far?
N.A Several years ago, I volunteered to take a hospital transfer for an NSTEMI patient. This patient was being transferred for cardiac services unavailable at the sending facility. While en route to the destination hospital, the patient (who I was conversing with) suddenly lost consciousness and went into ventricular fibrillation. I immediately administered defibrillation. The patient regained consciousness shortly after and was delivered to the receiving facility with no deficits or complaints.
A.A. Who would play you in a movie?
N.A. Peter Segal
A.A. Tell us about a moment that changed your life.
N.A. When I filled out the online form to attend NEMSA, my life morphed into something amazing. In 2011, at 21, I had just been laid off from a construction job and had no idea what I would do next. I contacted NEMSA and inquired about how to be an ambulance driver, I was informed that drivers were not hired, but I should consider becoming an EMT. After that one decision to become an EMT, I have achieved successes I would not have dreamed of. The lessons learned, knowledge gained, and friends discovered along the way have all shaped me into the person I am today.
A.A. What would be your advice for future [safety professionals]?
N.A. Cutting corners only leads to more strife. Do things correctly the first time and treat everyone equally.
A.A. What is your favorite activity outside of work?
N.A. Being in nature, in some form or another, is the most amazing gift of life.
A.A. Name one book that inspired you professionally.
N.A. Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy Seals Lead and Win
A.A. Which talent or superpower would you most like to have and why?
N.A. Super speed!
A.A What was the best advice you were ever given?
N.A. “This is good, but can you make it better?”
A.A. Do you have a bucket list? What are the top 3 things on it?
N.A. Visit New Zealand
Visit all of the US National Parks
Own an art studio
A.A. Do you have any pets? What are their names?
N.A. I have a Boston terrier named Maggie.
A.A. A penguin walks through the door right now wearing a sombrero. What does he say, and why is he here?
N.A. “Trick or treat!”
