Our Story
Greetings!
Allow me to share a bit about Rugged Solutions—a company that came from the combination of my upbringing in the mountains, my love for the wild, and my over a decade of work as an emergency responder. Hello! I’m Taylor Gomes, founder of Rugged Solutions. Welcome! I am so glad you are here!
My mission is to break down the information I’ve learned from my experience as a hiker, backpacker, paramedic, father, and fellow adventure enthusiast, and deliver that information in easy-to-understand ways for adventure seekers of all experience levels.
Or if you are looking to better prepare yourself and your family, for what to do when you do have an emergency, this is the right place for you. Let’s face it, we will face difficult days when emergencies happen. We can lessen the blow of those days by preparing now so that when the crap hits the fan, you will act, not freeze up.
The goal? To empower everyday people to integrate these skills into their everyday lives.
A Little of How I got Here
A Paramedic’s Journey:
My EMS career began 11 years ago, and for the first 8 years, I was immersed in the dynamic world of inner-city EMS—a realm that taught me resilience and compassion and gave me the skills to save lives, creating my foundation in emergency medicine.
The Mountains Are Calling, and I Must Go…
An inspiring quote by John Muir: Growing up surrounded by majestic peaks, I developed an early affinity for the mountains. Nature wasn’t just a backdrop; it was my canvas for exploration and a sanctuary where life’s lessons unfolded. This love for the outdoors laid the foundation for what would become Rugged Solutions.
Disaster Response Deployment:
My journey took an even more profound turn when I began disaster response deployments. For the last 8 years, I have deployed to large-scale hurricanes, wildland fires, and various crisis deployments during the COVID-19 pandemic. It was in these moments that I realized there is another need, and that need is education.
Rugged Solutions Emerge:
The birth of Rugged Solutions wasn’t a mere business endeavor; as every first responder knows, it was a calling. I see this as an extension of my initial calling to serve the public in their greatest time of need. With this new change, it allows me to combine my passion for the outdoors and my love for my kids into my work, and I can better prepare people before an emergency happens. It’s the proactive approach.
We are Happy You're Here
More Than a Brand—A Lifestyle:
Rugged Solutions is more than just a brand; it is my life’s ongoing work as an outdoorsman, paramedic, father, and friend. Our content, products, and recommendations come from real life experience in emergency mitigation.
Join the Rugged Family:
Whether you’re a seasoned outdoorsman or a new camper, welcome to our family. Rugged Solutions is here to guide and inform.
Thank you for being a part of the Rugged Solutions story.
Warm regards,
Taylor Gomes
Founder, Rugged Solutions