Outstanding Women of Valencia County:

Ariel Esquibel

Published March 13, 2025 - 5:00 a.m. Modified March 13, 2025 - 12:15 p.m.

Ariel Esquibel is the assistant chief of EMS for city of Belen Fire Department. She is a La Cueva High School graduate; and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in exercise science (UNM); a Master of Science degree in physical education with concentration in adapted physical education and sports administration (UNM); an associate degree in applied science in EMS focus of paramedic (CNM).

Her family includes her fiancé, Nathaniel Boggus; soon-to-be-stepchildren, Nathaniel Boggus II and Savanah Boggus; father, Edwin Esquibel; mother, Rosalind Chan-Esquibel; and brother, Ezra Esquibel.

She is the coordinator of the Law Enforcement Torch Run Agency (Special Olympics New Mexico); and is a member of the 505 Master’s Water Polo Club.

What is the biggest challenge and most rewarding aspect of your profession?

“The biggest challenge would actually be two things: time management and mental strain. Since this profession is always needed, we need to be able to complete tasks in a timely manner, regardless of what it may be. Mental strain is caused by the types of 911 calls that we respond to. We see traumatic things that most people would never imagine is possible.

“The other side to this is that even if it doesn’t seem traumatic to us, we see people on what can be considered the worst days of their lives; and that is going to be mentally straining on anyone.

“The most rewarding aspect of this profession are the thanks and appreciation that we receive. It’s a wonderful and heart-warming feeling when someone you helped, or a family member of someone you helped, gives you their genuine thanks for what you did. We don’t get that very often, but when it does happen, it’s a feeling that is hard to describe.”

Do you enjoy your job as much today as when you started?

“I do enjoy my job, but I enjoy it in a different aspect as when I first started. When I started, I worked more in the field, and now I’ve moved into a more administrative position. These two jobs are so different and are comparable like apples are to oranges, or pineapples and watermelons.”

Have you had any life-changing experiences that led you to where you are today?

“I went to school for something completely different, and couldn’t find any jobs. I was stuck in situations where I couldn’t get a job without experience, but I couldn’t get the experience without a job. There were no internships that I could get to gain experience needed. This was all for my original degree field, which was for exercise science, and because of that, I changed back to paramedic, knowing that I would always be able to get a job in the medical field.

“I started at AMR in Valencia County and Albuquerque and got to know the staff of the city of Belen Fire Department. After obtaining my paramedic license, I started volunteering at the fire department and the assistant chief — EMS position became available. After prayer and many conversations, I put in for the position and was blessed to have been given this opportunity.”

What made you decide to pursue the career path you’re currently on?

“I had always wanted to be a paramedic when I was little. I made changes due to people telling me that it was a thankless job and I wouldn’t make money, but in the end, God brought me back to this path and I am so grateful for it.”

If you could say one thing to your younger self or give them one piece of advice what would it be?

“Trust in God. He’s got a plan, but you must have faith in Him.”

What is the best advice you received and from whom?

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4: 6-7 NKJV

“This small bit of advice is from the Bible. It something I read years ago, and does come up regularly, due to the stresses of the job. It’s a great reminder to have faith in God and that he’s in control of everything and will help me through the tough times, as well as the wonderful times.”