Today we introduce Werner Norval, Emergency Care Practitioner (ECP) based at our Cape Town base. Werner, another fitness and outdoor enthusiast, joined the AMS family in November, here’s a look into his world …
Tell us about yourself: “I grew up in Cape Town and attended DF Malan High School. I went on to study BCom Financial Accounting at Stellenbosch University. I soon realised that it was not for me. In 2007 I started working for Old Mutual as a financial adviser. During the first three years at Old Mutual, I studied financial planning at Milpark Business School. I worked for Old Mutual for another three years, six years in total. I then later resigned, re-did my matric Maths, Science and Biology and applied to study the BEMC course at the University of Johannesburg. After obtaining my degree in 2017 I started to work for Netcare911 in their ICU division. I was introduced to the aero-medical environment where I spent a year flying part time for them on their helicopter as an Emergency Care Practitioner (ECP). I resigned in October 2019 and started with AMS in November 2019.”
Were you in any other trade before? “Yes, finance.”
Why did you choose to join the AMS? “I believe it is a great company to work for. The experience I am gaining in the aero-medical environment with them is priceless.”
If you could master one skill you don’t have right now, what would it be? “To become a helicopter pilot.”
What do you do in your spare time? “I like to exercise, running and swimming specifically. Furthermore, my spare time goes towards planning my wedding and honeymoon later this year. I also like to braai and socialise with friends. I also have a motorbike that I enjoy doing some day trips on.”
What might someone be surprised to know about you? “I look much older than I really am!”
What do you enjoy most about your job? “Being able to serve the community and care for patients. Also, my office has the best view anyone can ask for.”
What is on your bedside table? “A lamp, fan and heater.”
If you could have dinner with five famous people from history, who would they be? “Hitler I suppose; however, I am not that much into famous people. I would rather have dinner with my friends.”
When your friends/family find out what you do, what do they say or ask? “They always make a comment regarding the things we see and that they have a lot of respect for what we do.”
What has been the happiest day of your life? “That day is still coming…9 May 2020, my wedding day!”
If you could do another job for just one day, what would it be? “To be the helicopter pilot.”
What is your greatest indulgence? “Anything sweet, but I don’t share my tinkies!”
What is the one thing, you can’t live without? “My soon to be wife! Oh, and oxygen! Typical paramedic thing to say.”
What is the one quality you feel best describes you? “Loyal.”
Best piece of advice anyone ever gave you? “Laugh every day!”
Do you have a life philosophy? “Don’t overthink. I struggle with that.”
