CAPTAIN LATOYA ROCK
Executive Officer, EMS Operations
1. What is your name, title and years at FDNY? Where are you currently assigned, and what are your work-related responsibilities?
My name is Latoya Rock. I am an EMS captain. My current role as an executive officer to the Chief of EMS includes a myriad of responsibilities: strategic leadership and management of EMS operations; allocation of resources and financial planning; personnel recruiting, training and monitoring; regular monitoring of operations and adherence to rules and regulations; quality assurance and improvement activities; relationship building and outreach to the community; emergency preparedness and response planning; reporting based on data analysis; and managing risks and ensuring compliance with regulations.
2. What called you to a life of public service at FDNY?
By nature, I love to help people and help out in the needs of our communities. I didn’t know that right away, but I found a way to join the FDNY, and it has been an honor and a privilege to hold a position I’m in, working for such a great department.
3. Can you share one of your most memorable moments while working at FDNY?
I selected EMS Station 44 for this interview due to a memorable experience here as an FDNY lieutenant during the COVID-19 pandemic. I recall attending a challenging call at a nursing home during a big outbreak. We found chaos and suffering; the facility was understaffed, and some people needed immediate care. It was heartbreaking to see so many vulnerable people infected by COVID.
Despite tough conditions, our team triaged the patients, provided life-saving treatments and comforted residents and staff. Responding immediately required collaboration between emergency responders and healthcare professionals. My colleagues’ perseverance and compassion, and a huge impact from our collective efforts despite the risks, struck me throughout the entire ordeal.
Teamwork, adaptability and compassion under pressure were stressed during our entire pandemic response. It underscored the first responder’s critical role in positive impact in the lives of fellow citizens.
4. What does We Are FDNY mean to you?
When I hear We Are FDNY, it resonates with diversity. It means that I get to represent both women and black women in a department where sometimes, in certain ranks, it is not common to see this representation. Our presence gives hope to women out there to know that they can work in a field and department like ours.
5. What is your superpower (best quality or skill)?
I’m a people’s person. I’m here to bring people together from all walks of life, working on a common goal and getting the job done. I love to be a part of a team to get a goal accomplished.
6. How does your role support the public safety mission of the FDNY?
Currently, I play a supportive leadership role. Working for the Chief of EMS Operations is very demanding. I have to be aware of everything that’s going on and be able to allocate resources where they are needed. It is a dynamic environment with where things are always happening, and you just have to be prepared and ready to act.