Mary Kirkwood

Mary Kirkwood is a distinguished nursing professional with over four decades of experience in critical care, healthcare instruction, and leadership. As the Clinical Director at Guardian Training Center, Mary leverages her extensive background in ICU, trauma, and coronary care to deliver high-quality, real-world medical training. Throughout her career, she has specialized in managing critical care units and developing essential healthcare programs, such as the stroke and delirium programs she directed in her previous hospital role. Her expertise includes Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) training for both medical professionals and community paramedics, a role she has embraced since the mid-1980s.

Mary's dedication to service took on a new dimension after the tragic events of 9/11, which profoundly influenced her calling to help others. The national tragedy sparked a sense of unity and purpose, driving Mary to devote her life to ensuring that individuals and communities are better prepared for emergencies. This pivotal moment was the catalyst for her deep commitment to public safety and education, a mission she has pursued through both her professional and volunteer roles.

In her volunteer service with the Coast Guard Auxiliary, Mary has risen to the esteemed position of National Commodore, a 3-star rank, where she oversees the activities of 21,000 members across the country. She has been a member of the Auxiliary for over two decades, contributing to safety patrols, search and rescue missions, and public education on boating and water safety. Her leadership in this role and her direct involvement in lifesaving operations reflect her unwavering dedication to helping others, a passion she brings to every aspect of her work at Guardian Training Center.

At Guardian Training Center, Mary’s credentials further solidify her role as an exceptional leader and educator. She holds a Master's Degree in Nursing from Sonoma State University and continuously updates her knowledge and skills through leading organizations like the American Heart Association, the Society for Critical Care Medicine and the American Association of Critical Care Nurses.  Keeping pace with medical advancements is a top priority for Mary, and she actively stays informed by reading articles on resuscitative science, which align closely with her instruction in CPR and emergency response. "My uncle used to say, ‘The day you stop learning is the day you die' and that’s stuck with me throughout my career." This philosophy fuels her passion for expanding her knowledge base, allowing her to offer students the latest, most accurate, and up-to-date training available.

As a nurse, Mary is required to engage in ongoing continuing education, which she uses as an opportunity to diversify her skill set. Each course she takes is an opportunity to expand her knowledge, ensuring her students receive fresh insights and the most comprehensive training possible. Whether she’s instructing ACLS, collaborating with colleagues like Michelle Wagner, or developing vital hands-on medical training curricula, Mary’s dedication to delivering the highest level of instruction is evident in both the courses she leads and the programs she designs. Her teaching approach is dynamic and engaging, with a strong emphasis on teamwork, which she finds particularly rewarding in collaboration with her fellow instructors.

Outside of her professional life, Mary enjoys scuba diving, glass art, and spending time with her family and friends—activities that provide her with balance and rejuvenation. Her passion for service was deeply instilled by her parents, who emphasized the importance of giving back to the community—a value shared among her and her siblings. This sense of duty continues to guide her both professionally and in her volunteer work.

Mary has spent many years volunteering to teach boating and water safety and continues to offer her nursing expertise at local clinics. Additionally, she spent several years working with the Girl Scouts, mentoring young women in leadership, outdoor skills, and personal development. Whether through her professional work or volunteer efforts, Mary remains dedicated to her lifelong mission of helping others, with a genuine passion for empowering people through education and service.

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