Robert Lanoue

Paramedic / Communications Training Officer

Sunstar Paramedics

Robert “Bob” Lanoue, a lifelong resident of Pinellas County, has devoted more than four decades to public safety and emergency medical services. He began his career in 1984 as a volunteer firefighter with the City of Oldsmar and joined Pinellas Ambulance in 1985, launching a distinguished career dedicated to serving his community.

After more than 25 years on the streets of Pinellas County as a Paramedic, Bob transitioned into the Communications Center at Sunstar Paramedics, where his influence has continued to expand. Having served both in the field and in communications, Bob brings a rare and comprehensive understanding of the EMS system. His adaptability, professionalism, and depth of experience have earned him widespread respect across disciplines.

Bob firmly believes that EMS is a family built on trust, compassion, and mutual support. He treats everyone he encounters with genuine care, generosity, and respect, leaving a lasting impression on colleagues and new team members alike.

In his roles as System Status Controller, Communications Training Officer, and Emergency Medical Dispatch–Quality specialist, Bob has made a profound and lasting impact on the Communications Center. He has helped establish many of the foundational practices still in place today, shaping how dispatchers are trained, supported, and developed. Bob serves as a mentor and coach to new employees, provides quality assurance and improvement, contributes to policy development, and creates meaningful, scenario-based continuing education that connects dispatch theory to real-world outcomes. His passion for innovation and continuous improvement ensures the Communications Center remains a vital and evolving link between the community and emergency responders.

Bob understands that the Communications Center is often the public’s first point of contact during moments of fear and uncertainty. Through his leadership, he has reinforced the critical role dispatchers play in providing reassurance, gathering life-saving information, and setting responders up for success—directly impacting patient care, responder safety, and public trust.

A positive, growth-focused leader, Bob emphasizes long-term success over short-term correction and excels at fostering a cohesive, supportive learning environment. Those he has coached consistently praise his patience, enthusiasm, and wealth of knowledge.

Outside of work, Bob is proudly known as “Papa” to his five grandchildren and values time spent with family. Whether riding his motorcycle or sharing a new dish he has prepared, Bob approaches life with the same steadiness, thoughtfulness, and warmth that define his leadership and mentorship.

Sunstar Paramedics is proud to recognize Robert Lanoue as a Star of Life.