Marie Bussard brings a highly versatile, multi-disciplinary background to the classroom, with extensive field experience spanning structural and wildland firefighting, Hazardous Materials (HazMat) response, and comprehensive emergency medicine. Having operated as a medical provider in both fast-paced urban systems and resource-limited remote environments, Marie possesses a deep understanding of how to adapt patient care to any situation or setting. For students and clients, this broad spectrum of tactical and clinical experience means learning from an instructor who expertly understands complex scene safety, critical problem-solving, and how to deliver effective, calm medical care under the most unpredictable and challenging conditions.
Specialized Industries
Military & Backcountry Search & Rescue
Technical Mountain Rescue
Maritime Operations
Remote Medicine & Public Health
The Journey to Remote Medicine
My passions and enjoyments have been outside, I have lived in remote areas learning about remote medicine seemed reasonable.
I love bikes (mostly mountain but any will do!), dogs, and VW vans. Fun Fact: I was the first female firefighter in Missoula Montana and the only female in the state.
Teaching Philosopy
My biggest philosophy in teaching is the thought that our patients are people. I try to implore in students the need to be kind and listen. I also believe that our biases form a lot of our decisions and in order to be good at our craft we must be curious. I want students to know that they are practicing medicine they will always need to continue to learn and push themselves to become better.
Professional Certifications & Licensures
NREMT-P
Senior Instructor
EMS evaluator, EMT
Registered Nurse
Why I Choose to Teach
I generally teach classes that are made up of folks already working or living in our community. Personally I teach to help give back.
