Gary brings a rare combination of talents to the Copeman Healthcare Centre. His entrepreneurial success, combined with more than a decade of experience in both Emergency Medical Services as well as International health management, and his participation in amateur and professional sports bring a diverse range of skills to this facility.
Educated in Edmonton, Mr. Iley began his studies in Physical Education and then changed direction to Emergency Paramedical studies at the Southern Institute of Technology. In 1981, he was awarded an Emergency Medical Paramedic Diploma. He has since earned certifications as an Advanced Physical Fitness Specialist and a Program Director Specialist from the Cooper Aerobic Institute in Dallas, Texas.
Mr. Iley was instrumental in the creation of Calgary’s Cardiac Wellness Institute in 1995. The mission of the Institute was to prevent the development of heart disease while ensuring that those already affected are able to improve their long term health through education, research, counseling and individualized exercise programs. During his tenure as Executive Director Gary was responsible for establishing operational policies and procedures for the Institute, and was also responsible for ongoing business development.
While a Paramedic with the City of Calgary, Gary was honoured to be chosen as a member of a select international Red Cross delegation representing Canada in Baghdad at the conclusion of the Gulf War. There, as Medical Administrator, he helped restore the health care infrastructure in Iraq. In 2005, Gary was once again chosen as a member of an emergency response team with the Red Cross to represent Canada during Hurricane Katrina in the United States. As the Assistant Manager of Disaster Services, Mr. Iley was responsible for the deployment of both physicians and medical support staff.
Mr. Iley is a highly dedicated professional who was the first paramedic to be given full membership in the Canadian Association of Cardiac Rehabilitation. Mr. Iley’s interest in cardiac research, rehabilitation, and public education in the area of advanced preventive healthcare continues as he fulfills his role as Director of Business Development.at the Copeman Healthcare Centre.
