Amanda Riordan serves as the Vice President of Membership of the American Ambulance Association. She joined AAA as Director of Membership in May of 2015. She has 15+ years of progressive experience in non-profit operations, membership development, marketing, operations, and credentialing.
2025 Annual Conference & Trade Show Call for Presentations
Thank you for your interest in speaking at the AAA Annual Conference and Trade Show.
Annual Conference & Trade Show
Sunday, June 22–Tuesday, June 24, 2025
Central Bank Center
Lexington, Kentucky
The deadline for submissions is January 1, 2025. Applicants may submit up to three proposals. Audience involvement is highly encouraged.
Please be advised that participation as a presenter is strictly on a voluntary basis. Up to two speakers per selected session will receive complimentary registration to the conference. However, AAA is unable to pay speaker fees or travel and lodging expenses. Thank you for your interest in sharing your expertise with your peers!
Meet Dave Raymond, a dedicated firefighter EMT, and his wife, Kelly, who has been on a courageous four-year quest to find a kidney donor. In December 2023, a ray of hope shone through when Kelly’s uncle, though not a match for her, selflessly donated a kidney on her behalf through the National Kidney Registry’s standard voucher program. While Kelly is still waiting for the perfect match, they are one significant step closer, and Dave and Kelly are feeling blessed by this development.
A Struggle Behind the Scenes
However, behind this hopeful story lies a financial crisis. Despite Dave’s tireless efforts, working multiple jobs, having private medical insurance and Medicare for Kelly, the overwhelming burden of unpaid co-pays and uncovered balances has pushed the Raymond family into a dire financial situation. They now face the imminent threat of losing their home and only vehicle, and Kelly’s health is further compromised as they are unable to schedule specialist appointments due to unpaid balances.
“Dave is working four jobs. We have both private health insurance and Medicare, and the medical bills still keep piling up. I’m on daily dialysis and can’t work. There are no more hours left in the day for Dave to work. I am worried he will lose his health and we’ll lose our home. The stress is overwhelming.” – Kelly Raymond
The Raymond Family’s Sacrifice
Dave and his son, Christopher, share a profound commitment to saving lives as firefighter EMTs. Yet, the harsh reality is that they are unable to save Kelly on their own. The burden of mounting bills has forced them to turn to their community, and their fire service/EMS family for support.
Your Chance to Make a Difference
Now is the time for us to rally together and support these everyday heroes who have dedicated their lives to helping others. Your contribution will not only ease the financial strain on the Raymond family but also allow them to focus on what matters most – Kelly’s health and well-being. Your donation can be the lifeline this family desperately needs.
Kelly’s Medical History of Diabetes and Kidney Disease
Kelly has struggled with medical issues all her life. She has Type 1 (Juvenile) Diabetes which created many health complications. But one by one, Kelly has overcome and moved on, keeping an incredibly optimistic outlook. In 2013 she lost her leg to diabetes but has adapted very well. In 2020 her kidneys started shutting down rapidly and it was determined that she would need a kidney transplant to live. In the meantime, Kelly is doing dialysis 7 days a week to keep going. It is difficult, but we are grateful that dialysis buys her some time while we search for a donor. Many people have stepped up for Kelly and all but one has been found medically ineligible to donate. Unfortunatley the one approved donor had a major family crisis that put kidney donation on hold indefinitely. With the National Kidney Registry standard voucher, Kelly is now waiting patiently to be matched with a living kidney donor, which will likely happen within the year.
Will you send the Raymond Family a lifeline?
Good news…
Kelly is waiting to be matched with a living kidney donor!
100% of your donation will go to the Raymond family. EMS Gives Life is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. All donations are tax-deductible to the full extent allowed by law.
The First Responder Network Authority will be launching the next phase of the FirstNet network in partnership with its network contractor, AT&T. The webcast will unveil major upgrades planned for FirstNet, driven by public safety’s needs.
Register below for the webcast, and join us on February 13 to hear from public safety officials and leaders from the FirstNet Authority and AT&T as they announce enhancements planned for FirstNet.
The American Ambulance Association (AAA) seeks proposals from qualified consulting firms to provide strategic services in the field of ambulance and emergency medical services. The selected firm will work collaboratively with the Association to identify opportunities, analyze state landscapes, develop policy recommendations, and manage the project efficiently.
About the American Ambulance Association
Caring for People—First.
The American Ambulance Association safeguards the future of mobile healthcare through advocacy, thought leadership, and education. AAA advances sustainable EMS policy, empowering our members to serve their communities with high-quality on-demand healthcare. For more than 40 years, we have proudly represented those who care for people first. AAA’s 1500+ organizational members serve cities and counties in all 50 states.
Scope of Services
The consulting firm shall provide the following services:
Planning and Strategy Session: Convene a strategy session with key AAA leaders to prioritize states for research and opportunity development.
State Landscape Research and Analysis: Conduct comprehensive research and analysis for no fewer than ten states, focusing on:
State statutes, regulations, and Medicaid policies for ambulance services.
Medicaid fee schedules for ambulance services.
State policies on balance billing and treatment in place.
Initiatives addressing ambulance workforce shortage, including the use of grants and ARPA funds, with a particular focus on availability or potential availability for non-governmental EMS providers.
Policy Recommendation Development: Collaborate with AAA to develop in-depth state-level policy recommendations on the topics of EMS workforce recruitment and retention, balance billing, and treatment in place.
Whitepaper Development: Write, edit, and publish no fewer than three in-depth whitepapers focused on state-level EMS recruitment and retention, balance billing, and treatment in place policy. The whitepapers should be suitable for use by EMS providers and state level legislators and regulators seeking to identify state EMS policy best practices.
Project Management & Communication: Provide robust project management, including regular client meetings to review goals and progress during the development of policy recommendations and whitepapers. Facilitate regular coordination and progress review calls and monthly written updates.
All deliverables should be received in calendar year 2024.
Fees and Expenses
Proposals must include a detailed fee structure, including hourly rates for various personnel and any applicable prorated fees. A fixed total or capped amount is strongly preferred over uncapped “time and expenses” billing.
Submission Guidelines
Proposals should be submitted by January 31, 2024 to info@ambulance.org with the subject line “State EMS Whitepaper Proposal.” Proposals should include a detailed approach to the scope of services, a proposed timeline for deliverable development, detailed qualifications of the team, and a clear fee structure. Submitters should include examples of past work of similar scope in the broader healthcare field.
Selection Criteria
Proposals will be evaluated based on the firm’s experience, approach to the project, team qualifications, and cost-effectiveness. Notification will be delivered by February 29, 2024.
I’ve always loved science and medicine. And after losing one of my brothers in a car accident I knew there were no words to express my appreciation for the Paramedics and hospital staff that worked on him. I wanted to pay it forward and be there for people the way the Paramedics were there for my brother.
I know I have no control over the outcomes of the people I care for, but I can show up for my community and try to help in people’s worst moments like so many did for my brother and family.
What do you love about working in EMS?
There is never a day in EMS that is the same as another. There is always more to learn and more to do. It is a very raw, intimate, and humbling experience to be able to meet so many different people in different situations and come together as a team to try and help. This job makes me grateful for my blessings every day.
Do you have any advice for someone considering becoming an EMT or Paramedic?
Make sure you take time for your hobbies and self-care. A work-life balance is crucial. You can’t pour from an empty cup. Make sure you have someone you can talk to on the hard days. I have yet to find any other role that compares to this one. This career can be heart-wrenching but it can also be absolutely exhilarating and incredible and not once have I ever felt like it wasn’t worth it.
I had a good friend ask me if I wanted to work on an ambulance with her. I said yes and she said ok you gotta take this class. So I enrolled in an EMT class and fell in love with it from the first day.
What do you love about working in EMS?
I love being able to help people. I love the team environment and the amazing people I get to work with every day. It’s so rewarding to be a part of a team that really makes a difference in the communities we serve.
Do you have any advice for someone considering becoming an EMT or Paramedic?
Do it! I absolutely love coming to work each shift. Work hard and ask all the questions you can in your EMT classes and during your probationary time on the ambulance. It’s the best job in the world!
I started as a volunteer firefighter, just like many other 18-year-old first responders. I was immediately attracted to the fast pace of the work environment and the sense of fulfillment that came along with EMS.
What do you love about working in EMS?
Every work day presents something different. Today, as an EMS leader, I get to influence up-and-coming providers and contribute to the foundation of their success as both professionals and as people.
Do you have any advice for someone considering becoming an EMT or Paramedic?
EMS is a very dynamic profession. With change comes opportunities for growth and development. Learn and grow every day. You will get out of your career exactly what you put into it.
Being an EMT or Paramedic is fun, challenging, and rewarding all in one. Truly, EMS is one of the absolute best professions.
Anything else you’d like to say?
Countless lives have been saved by the rapid interventions that are being performed in pre-hospital settings. Pre-hospital providers are the safety net of their communities nationwide. Doctors don’t make house calls anymore, but EMTs and Paramedics make them every single day.
EMS Heroes To Be Honored in Washington, DC as 2023 Stars of Life
Washington, DC—Next week, the American Ambulance Association (AAA) will recognize extraordinary EMS professionals during the annual Stars of Life celebration. 128 individuals from across the United States will be honored as the 2023 Stars at a prestigious event November 6–8.
Stars of Life pays tribute to the dedication of these hometown heroes while shining light on the critical role EMS plays in our healthcare infrastructure. During their time in our nation’s capital, the Stars will receive medallions and plaques in thanks for their lifesaving and life-sustaining service. The Stars, accompanied by their families and executive hosts, will also meet with members of Congress and congressional aides to discuss policy issues critical to emergency medical services.
In addition to the Stars, Senator Jon Tester of Montana and Senator Bill Cassidy, MD of Louisiana will be recognized as Legislators of the Year, and 11 United States Senators and 17 Representatives will receive Legislative Recognition Awards for their support of mobile healthcare.
American Ambulance Association President Randy Strozyk noted that, “EMS professionals work tirelessly to provide round-the-clock healthcare when it is needed most.” He continued, “Together, we honor this year’s Stars of Life, and thank them for the countless hours of service they have dedicated to their local communities.”
This year’s distinguished Stars of Life honorees are:
Danny Abalama | B200 Instructor Pilot, Guardian Flight | Anchorage, AK | starsof.life/23abalama
Adedeji Adebayo | Paramedic, Chief Supervisor, Mohawk Ambulance Service | Schenectady, NY | starsof.life/23adebayo
Tiffany Allen | EMT & Billing Supervisor, REACT EMS | Shawnee, OK | starsof.life/23allen
Jacob Ambach | Paramedic, American Medical Response | Spokane, WA | starsof.life/23ambach
Marcia Anderson | Critical Care Paramedic, M Health Fairview / HealthEast | St. Paul, MN | starsof.life/23anderson
Michael Arquette | Operations Supervisor, American Medical Response | Buffalo, NY | starsof.life/23arquette
Jack Asbury | Emergency Medical Technician, American Medical Response | Bushnell, FL | starsof.life/23asbury
Gage Askew | Paramedic & Field Training Officer, REACT EMS | Shawnee, OK | starsof.life/23askew
Austin Baffa | Emergency Medical Technician, Falck Mobile Health Corp | Orange County, CA | starsof.life/23baffa
Please note that members of the media are welcome to attend the Stars of Life Banquet at the Intercontinental Wharf hotel on November 7, 2023 from 7:00–9:00pm. Interviews with Stars of Life as well as national EMS leaders will be available.
# # #
About The American Ambulance Association
Caring for People—First.
The American Ambulance Association safeguards the future of mobile healthcare through advocacy, thought leadership, and education. AAA advances sustainable EMS policy, empowering our members to serve their communities with high-quality on-demand healthcare. For more than 40 years, we have proudly represented those who care for people first.
EMS Heroes To Be Honored in Washington, DC as 2023 Stars of Life
Washington, DC—This November, the American Ambulance Association (AAA) will recognize extraordinary EMS professionals during the annual Stars of Life celebration. 128 individuals from across the United States will be honored as the 2023 Stars at the November 6–8 event.
Stars of Life pays tribute to the dedication of these hometown heroes while shining light on the critical role EMS plays in our healthcare infrastructure. During their time in our nation’s capital, the Stars will receive medallions and plaques in thanks for their lifesaving and life-sustaining service. The Stars, accompanied by their families and executive hosts, will also meet with members of Congress and congressional aides to discuss policy issues critical to emergency medical services.
In addition to the Stars, Senator Jon Tester of Montana and Senator Bill Cassidy, MD of Louisiana will be recognized as Legislators of the Year, and 11 United States Senators and 17 Representatives will receive Legislative Recognition Awards for their support of mobile healthcare.
American Ambulance Association President Randy Strozyk noted that, “EMS professionals work tirelessly to provide round-the-clock healthcare when it is needed most.” He continued, “Together, we honor this year’s Stars of Life, and thank them for the countless hours of service they have dedicated to their local communities.”
This year’s distinguished Stars of Life honorees are:
Danny Abalama | B200 Instructor Pilot, Guardian Flight | Anchorage, AK | starsof.life/23abalama
Adedeji Adebayo | Paramedic, Chief Supervisor, Mohawk Ambulance Service | Schenectady, NY | starsof.life/23adebayo
Tiffany Allen | EMT & Billing Supervisor, REACT EMS | Shawnee, OK | starsof.life/23allen
Jacob Ambach | Paramedic, American Medical Response | Spokane, WA | starsof.life/23ambach
Marcia Anderson | Critical Care Paramedic, M Health Fairview / HealthEast | St. Paul, MN | starsof.life/23anderson
Michael Arquette | Operations Supervisor, American Medical Response | Buffalo, NY | starsof.life/23arquette
Jack Asbury | Emergency Medical Technician, American Medical Response | Bushnell, FL | starsof.life/23asbury
Gage Askew | Paramedic & Field Training Officer, REACT EMS | Shawnee, OK | starsof.life/23askew
Austin Baffa | Emergency Medical Technician, Falck Mobile Health Corp | Orange County, CA | starsof.life/23baffa
Please note that members of the media are welcome to attend the Stars of Life Banquet at the Intercontinental Wharf hotel on November 7, 2023 from 7:00–9:00pm. Interviews with Stars of Life as well as national EMS leaders will be available.
# # #
About The American Ambulance Association
Caring for People—First.
The American Ambulance Association safeguards the future of mobile healthcare through advocacy, thought leadership, and education. AAA advances sustainable EMS policy, empowering our members to serve their communities with high-quality on-demand healthcare. For more than 40 years, we have proudly represented those who care for people first.
I have always been interested in helping others and fascinated by science. I followed a different career path and studied Biodiversity and Conservation Conservation Biology. After working as an Environmental Educator Educator, Volunteer Coordinator, and becoming a licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator, I was approached by a member of my local volunteer ambulance agency. I started volunteering and quickly became an EMT and officer. The more involved I became the more I fell in love with EMS.
What do you love about working in EMS?
What I love about EMS is that there is always something new to learn, always a new situation. I like meeting new people and being able to make an immediate difference.
Do you have any advice for someone considering becoming an EMT or Paramedic?
Ask questions. Make the most of every situation, including interfacility transfers. Go with your gut feelings.
My father suffered a heart attack at home and as I waited for 911, it felt like forever. I decided I never again wanted to be without the knowledge of how to help others.
What do you like about working in EMS?
I love the opportunity to interact with diversity in our communities. It is an honor to help people of various populations.
Do you have any advice for someone considering becoming an EMT or Paramedic?
My advice to future EMS professionals is to be easy with yourself and continue to ask questions. Never stop learning, even after you earn your certification.
I found myself searching for a career in the healthcare field and discovered a local EMT training program. I didn’t know much about EMS at the time I applied. As I got deeper into it, I became more and more interested. I enrolled in the Paramedic program to further my career and continue my education.
What do you love about working in EMS?
What I love about working in EMS is the thrill and the excitement—the whole experience. I love the fact that I can tell people outside of the profession that I’m a Paramedic.
Do you have any advice for someone considering becoming an EMT or Paramedic?
Treat each and every patient as if they were your family member.
Anything else you’d like to say?
EMS is a fun and challenging career. It has its moments but every call makes you greater. My primary goal is to provide patients with excellent pre-hospital care.
The light and sirens going by first caught my attention as a young child. That love only grew as I got older. I would watch and ask for all things that had to do with first responding. I loved it all, and imagined serving as police, fire or EMS when I got older. Over time during these growing years I eliminated fire and law enforcement as just not for me. EMS was the winner across the board.
I found myself at the age where I asked, ‘Self, what do you want to do?’ and, ‘What is the career of my dreams?’
The answer was EMS.
What do you love about working in EMS?
What I love about EMS is there is literally never a dull moment! Nothing day is the same, no call will ever be the same. EMS and standing orders are always evolving and trending up. We are always there when you need us.
Do you have any advice for someone considering becoming an EMT or Paramedic?
My advice is to go for it! Buckle up and enjoy one of the most rewarding career paths that can simply not be duplicated in other professions.
I recommend EMS for the skillset development. It hits such a wide variety of life lessons in just one shift. As an EMT, you’ll see the do’s and don’ts to life as a whole, and it gives you the ability to help people from the community.
You are continually educated and truly the sky is the limit in emergency medical services. Being an EMT opens so many doors in so many directions in the medical field. You can start EMS like me from fleet maintenance, where I learned about the vehicles, to a chair car, to communications and dispatch, to the road as an emergency first responder, and then on to an EMT certification. The future is full of next steps, and I’ve already done a lot. You can even get your advanced EMT, then your Paramedic then do a bridge program and go into nursing. The possibilities are endless and attainable.
The American Ambulance Association’s Stars of Life program celebrates the contributions of ambulance professionals who have gone above and beyond the call of duty in service to their communities or the EMS profession.
Recognize the unsung heroes at your ambulance service—nominate EMTs, Paramedics, Dispatchers, and other EMS professionals for this year’s class of Stars. Stars and their guests, accompanied by executive hosts, are celebrated in a series of events in our nation’s capital.
Stars of Life honors the contributions of these heroes while shining light on the critical role EMS plays in our healthcare infrastructure.
American Ambulance Association
Stars of Life 2023
November 6–8, 2023 Intercontinental Wharf | Washington, DCNominations close October 10, but early nomination is suggested as space is limited.
Eligibility—Who Are Our Stars?
All employees of ambulance services are eligible for nomination for the AAA Stars of Life program. All nominees are recognized as Stars. Examples of individuals commonly nominated include:
State-level Star of Life or other award program recipient
Employee of the year
On-duty or off-duty services above and beyond the call of duty such as special rescue or setting of significant records
Notable community contributions such as volunteer work, local leadership, partnerships with other organizations or agencies
Significant community distinction or honors related to ambulance, public safety, public health or health care services
Consistent services record which exemplifies your ambulance operation’s mission
Please note that we encourage individuals being honored poshumously to be recognized through the National EMS Memorial Service.
2023 Registration Rates
Registration opens in July, and closes October 10. Late submissions cannot be accomodated.
Stars – $549 member / $1098 non-member (+$150 after October 1)
Hosts – $549 member / $1098 non-member (+$150 after October 1)
Guests – $549 member / $1098 non-member (+$150 after October 1)
Banquet Only – $199 member / $398 non-member
Stars of Life Cancellation & Refund Policy
Cancellations received in writing at hello@ambulance.org by September 1, 2023 will be refunded less a 25% penalty. Cancellations received from September 2 to October 1, 2023 will be subject to a 50% cancellation fee. No refunds will be issued after October 2, 2023. No refunds will be issued for no-shows.
Nominations are also open for the AAA EMSNext leadership and education program focused on nurturing a new generation of EMS association and policy leaders.
The American Ambulance Association’s Stars of Life program celebrates the contributions of ambulance professionals who have gone above and beyond the call of duty in service to their communities or the EMS profession.
Recognize the unsung heroes at your ambulance service—nominate EMTs, Paramedics, Dispatchers, and other EMS professionals for this year’s class of Stars. Stars and their guests, accompanied by executive hosts, are celebrated in a series of events in our nation’s capital.
Stars of Life honors the contributions of these heroes while shining light on the critical role EMS plays in our healthcare infrastructure.
American Ambulance Association
Stars of Life 2023
November 6–8, 2023 Intercontinental Wharf | Washington, DC
Nominations close October 10, but early nomination is suggested as space is limited.
Eligibility—Who Are Our Stars?
All employees of ambulance services are eligible for nomination for the AAA Stars of Life program. All nominees are recognized as Stars. Examples of individuals commonly nominated include:
State-level Star of Life or other award program recipient
Employee of the year
On-duty or off-duty services above and beyond the call of duty such as special rescue or setting of significant records
Notable community contributions such as volunteer work, local leadership, partnerships with other organizations or agencies
Significant community distinction or honors related to ambulance, public safety, public health or health care services
Consistent services record which exemplifies your ambulance operation’s mission
Please note that we encourage individuals being honored poshumously to be recognized through the National EMS Memorial Service.
2023 Registration Rates
Registration opens in July, and closes October 10. Late submissions cannot be accomodated.
Stars – $549 member / $1098 non-member (+$150 after October 1)
Hosts – $549 member / $1098 non-member (+$150 after October 1)
Guests – $549 member / $1098 non-member (+$150 after October 1)
Banquet Only – $199 member / $398 non-member
Stars of Life Cancellation & Refund Policy
Cancellations received in writing at hello@ambulance.org by September 1, 2023 will be refunded less a 25% penalty. Cancellations received from September 2 to October 1, 2023 will be subject to a 50% cancellation fee. No refunds will be issued after October 2, 2023. No refunds will be issued for no-shows.
Nominations are also open for the AAA EMSNext leadership and education program focused on nurturing a new generation of EMS association and policy leaders.
Know a wonderful rising leader you’d like to recognize as the future of EMS? Nominations are open for EMSNext (formerly Mobile Healthcare 40 Under 40)!
Selection Process & Criteria
2023 EMSNext Honorees
Honorees will be selected based ONLY on the information provided in the nomination form below. Nominees should have contributed to their organization, state ambulance association, AAA, other professional associations, and/or the EMS profession in an extraordinary way beyond faithful completion of job duties. Please be sure to include detail about the nominee’s impact to date and future promise.
Please note that nominees must be under 40 in the year of nomination OR from a diverse background. No specific job role or title is required for consideration.
EMSNext Program Description
EMSNext is a recognition and development program of the American Ambulance Association. The goal of this program is to recognize up-and-coming leaders within EMS and support them in building their networks and leadership skills and encouraging them to get involved in the next level of EMS leadership. This program is a way for organizations to fully engage their rising leaders through company-sponsored travel and participation in additional learning and networking events throughout the year. Program participation includes:
Recognition of the EMSNext recipients during the Conference
Mentor pairing and additional professional development opportunities
Encouraged to attend AAA Board Meetings throughout the year
Encouraged to attend another AAA event with our leaders in 2024
AAA’s Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Updated in August 2022
Caring for People—Together.
The American Ambulance Association board and its members are committed to providing high-quality healthcare to every patient regardless of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and/or on the basis of differing ability. We dedicate time, thought, and resources to fostering diversity, equity, inclusion, and mutual respect within the Emergency Medical Services workforce and leadership. Together, we save and sustain the lives of community members.
Recognize woman leaders with at least 35 years of service in EMS! Nominations are open for the second annual American Ambulance Association Vanguard Awards! The Vanguards honor those who blazed the trail for fellow women EMS professionals.
The Vanguards are presented in collaboration with our colleagues from Women in Emergency Services (WiES), a newly-founded organization dedicated to supporting and advancing women’s careers in the emergency services industry through empowerment, networking, mentorship, and education.
2023 American Ambulance Association Vanguard Awards
Selection Process & Criteria
To submit a 2024 Vanguard nomination, please complete the form below before January 1, 2024.
Honorees will be selected based ONLY on the information provided in their nomination form. Nominees should have contributed to their organization, state ambulance association, AAA, other professional associations, and/or the EMS profession in an extraordinary way beyond faithful completion of job duties. Please be sure to include detail about the nominee’s impact to date.
Please note that nominees must be women with 35+ years of service in the EMS industry. No specific job role or title is required for consideration.
Recognition
Honorees will be recognized at the American Ambulance Association President’s Reception award ceremony, and will be recognized on the AAA and WiEMS websites and social media platforms. Winners will also receive complimentary registration to the AAA Annual Conference & Trade Show.
2024 AAA Annual Conference & Trade Show
Gaylord Opryland
April 22–24, 2024
Nashville, TN