Part of the American Red Cross's mission is to promote preparedness for when the unexpected happens. Knowing how to perform CPR and use an AED are vital skills we should all know. Those are just two examples of the services Paula Deck offers the region. She is a strategic account executive, and she works to promote lifesaving Red Cross training courses to businesses and organizations throughout our region. Paula is our guest on today's "Nice to Meet You".
Q: What does your title mean?
A: I am a Strategic Account Executive for Red Cross Training Services. I promote, consult, and sell Red Cross workplace safety and healthcare resuscitation training, services, AEDs and training supplies to companies and organizations to help them build and maintain a world-class safety and emergency response program that prepares their team members and healthcare providers to confidently and correctly respond to emergencies and save lives.
Q: How long have you been with the Red Cross?
A: I have been with the Red Cross for two-and-a-half years.
Q: What do you like most about your job?
A: I like that every day is different, challenging and rewarding. I also love playing a role in fulfilling the mission of the Red Cross!
Q: What do you listen to during the workday?
A: I usually have the radio on so quietly that I forget it is playing. I usually listen to inspirational music or relaxing instrumentals.
Q: What do you do when you aren’t working?
A: I love to read, walk and camp with my family in our RV.
Q: What is the first thing you want to do when the pandemic is over?
A: I’m looking forward to visiting my parents in Arizona.
Q: What has most surprised you while working with the Red Cross?
A: I am surprised at the scope of work that the Red Cross accomplishes. I have enjoyed learning about the different lines of service, like International Services and Service to the Armed Forces. I am also surprised by how many disasters the Red Cross responds to every year and the flexibility and innovation that is required to do that.
Q: What is a Red Cross moment that has stuck with you?
A: A colleague of mine suffered a debilitating heart attack at a trade show years ago. Luckily, the security personnel at the hotel were trained and reacted quickly. They saved and sustained his life until the paramedics arrived. He never fully recovered, but he lived for four more months. I spoke with him and his family after the incident and they were so grateful for the precious gift of time. I have never forgotten.
Q: What do you wish people knew about working at the Red Cross?
A: The Red Cross is a very professional organization that provides challenging work, competitive salaries and benefits, extensive training opportunities and different career paths. It is rewarding to finish each day knowing that I have helped people and played a role in alleviating suffering in the face of emergencies.
Q: Is there anything else you’d like folks to know about you and/or working for the Red Cross?
A: It is fun! I have enjoyed partnering with staff and volunteers across all lines of service. The variety of experience, level of commitment to the mission and care for one another that Red Crossers show to one another makes working at Red Cross a pleasure.