A Michiana Life in the Spotlight: Marissa Velez

Place yourself in the line of duty. Imagine running to the fire instead of retreating, responding to the call and not frantically dialing. Each scenario comes with a unique set of limitations. First responders heed that call, ignoring the obstacles placed before them, acting on instinct and leading with training, all in the name of safety and protection. 

For pedestrians, this is no easy feat. Those who answer the call to protect and serve often describe it as an intrinsic or innate realization from childhood. The fascination with first responders is instilled in many during the formative years —firefighters, police officers, EMTs, or medics—the figurines cover the floor of a child whose potential and purpose will soon be realized. 

Marissa Velez, Mishawaka local and community care provider, describes this feeling similarly.

“I remember being in high school, and though looking back, I realize I was very naive, thinking the world was all sunshine and rainbows. I knew I wanted to serve,” said Velez. “At the time, I wanted to be a cop and change the world.”

Velez’s path is winding, but each step along the way has built the foundation for something greater. Her journey started at St. Joseph County Jail, where she worked as a correctional officer. Her four years of service were impressionable, as she would not trade those experiences for the world. Velez carries the lessons learned in that role throughout her life, but recognizes that her ability to serve in that position was limited and that her days as a correctional officer were numbered. 

She leaned into studies and began training for her EMT certification through the local college. Six months later, she could be found in the emergency room (ER) at Elkhart General Hospital, providing life-saving care to those in need.

“I’m an emergency department technician,” said Velez. “Similarly to a nursing assistant, we draw blood, administer EKGs, CPR, and fasten splints if anybody breaks or fractures anything. It gets busy, and our team of education techs does everything we can to support the doctors and physicians.”

Velez’s time spent working in the ER allowed her to hone her ability to act in high-pressure situations, an experience that would only fuel her dreams. Like a wick, the spark that ignited her passion could not be extinguished, and she now has her sights set on higher-level training with the local fire department. She hopes to soon turn a role that started on a volunteer basis into a career. 

“My end goal is to become an EMT with the fire department, and that requires experience. I researched opportunities and ended up volunteering at the Oslo Township Volunteer Fire Department in Elkhart,” Velez said. “They took me on as a volunteer and put me through the fire academy. That was this past July, and I completed my training in December. I am waiting to schedule my two remaining exams with a state proctor. Once I pass, I’ll officially be a firefighter.”

Velez’s family and community stand behind her in support as she eagerly transitions into public service. Fortunately for the community, you can still find Velez’s friendly face working in the ER at Elkhart General Hospital as she awaits her fate with the fire department.

Velez’s love for Indiana, Mishawaka, and her community continues to grow, and she appreciates life’s little moments. In her free time, Velez enjoys the simplicity and laid-back mentality of Midwest living. She ensures that there is more to Indiana than cornfields and backcountry roads. 

Riding bikes and spending quality time with her brother Fabian is another hobby that Velez enjoys when she can. She credits her brother for making her into the woman she is today. Velez likes to walk the trails at Potato Creek State Park, attending events hosted by Potawatomi Zoo, and swaying in the crowd at the summer concert series in Mishawaka’s central park. She looks forward to creating more memories and spending time with loved ones while she eagerly awaits her official call to serve.