At Winnipeg Prosthetics & Orthotics (WinPO), our team is made up of skilled professionals who bring more than just clinical expertise - they bring compassion, creativity, and a deep commitment to improving their clients’ lives. In this edition of our team spotlight series, we’re excited to introduce Erica, a Resident Prosthetist who draws on her background in kinesiology to deliver care that’s both thoughtful and deeply attuned to each of her patients’ needs.
Whether she’s fitting a new prosthesis or helping someone adjust to life with a limb difference, Erica’s goal is simple: to empower every patient to move forward with confidence. In our conversation, Erica shares insights into her journey, what inspires her work, and what patients can expect when they walk through our doors.
Erica Stirling, B.Kin
What initially drew you to the field of prosthetics and orthotics?
I knew growing up that I wanted to be in healthcare, coming from a family of nurses and dentists, but I also knew I wanted to do something different. I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands, and this field offered the perfect blend of hands-on creativity and patient care. I initially began on the technical side, fabricating prosthetic and orthotic devices, but soon realized I wanted more direct interaction with patients. It allows me to see firsthand how these devices are changing people’s lives.
What was it like volunteering at the prosthetics clinic while you were in high school? What brought you back to the clinic each summer?
Volunteering at the prosthetics clinic was an incredibly rewarding experience. It gave me the chance to deepen my understanding of the field while also developing my technical skills. I was able to be a part of the fabrication of a wide range of assistive devices and connect with a lot of interesting people, each with their own unique story.
Was there an incident or moment while you were volunteering when you knew you wanted to pursue a career in this field?
From the moment I learned about the field, I knew I wanted to pursue this. It combined two things I was passionate about: improving people’s quality of life and using my hands to build something meaningful that would accomplish that goal. Each summer, going back to the clinic, I knew it was helping me get closer to making this career a reality.
Were there any memorable moments while you were volunteering at the clinic or while you were completing your program (either at WLU or GBC) that you can share with us?
I remember sitting in one of my Kinesiology classes at Wilfrid Laurier University when the professor asked us what we wanted to do after we graduated. In a lecture hall full of mostly people wanting to follow a career in physiotherapy, I was the only one in the room who said prosthetics. It was a memorable moment that highlighted just how small and specialized this field really is.
Is there anything you would want your future clients to know about working with you?
My team and I are committed to doing our best to accommodate all your requests and address any questions you may have. Please feel free to reach out at any time if you have questions or concerns along the way. We believe in collaborating closely with our patients to design devices that fit their lifestyles, emphasizing a partnership throughout the entire prosthetic care process.
How long have you called Winnipeg home? How do you find living here compared to Toronto?
I moved to Winnipeg in the fall of 2022 to start my Clinical Methods in Prosthetics & Orthotics program, and I decided to stay after graduating when I accepted a position with WinPO. I definitely enjoy Winnipeg; it’s got that big city feel on a smaller scale compared to Toronto. I’ve also been loving the food scene here, and I'm always excited to try out new restaurant recommendations.
What is your favourite place to visit in Winnipeg / Manitoba?
One of my favourite places to visit in Manitoba is West Hawk Lake. When a tropical getaway isn’t in the cards, my partner and I sometimes head to the lake to scuba dive. It may not be Mexico, but it's a great spot to practice skills and log some dive hours close to home.
We are proud to have Erica as part of our team, bringing her expertise, vivacity and commitment to every patient she serves. If you would like to contact Jodie, she can be reached via email at erica@winpo.ca.
Erica is a Resident Prosthetist. Originally from the Toronto area, she completed her studies in Clinical Methods in Prosthetics and Orthotics at George Brown College in 2024 and has since relocated to Winnipeg to pursue her career.