40 Under 40: Rebecca Szeles (Richmond Ambulance Authority – Richmond, VA)

Written by American Ambulance Association on . Posted in 40 Under 40.

40 Under 40 nominees were selected based on their contributions to the American Ambulance Association, their employer, state ambulance association, other professional associations, and/or the EMS profession.
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Rebecca Szeles
Communications Supervisor
Richmond Ambulance Authority
Richmond, Virginia

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Nominated by: Mark Tenia

Biography

Rebecca Szeles is a Nationally Registered Paramedic and Communications Supervisor at the Richmond Ambulance Authority (RAA). She is a Virginia Commonwealth University graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. She is also a member of RAA’s Critical Incident Stress Management Team (CISM) and Peer Support Program (PSP).

Reason for Nomination

Supervisor Szeles has not only dedicated herself to her position, but has also committed herself to supporting the mental health and well-being of her co-workers. In 2017 Supervisor Szeles invited Jim Marshall from the 911-Training Institute to speak to staff about resiliency. In 2018, she went through training to become a member of our Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) team. CISM helps providers deal with traumatic events such as line of duty or pediatric deaths, and Mass Casualty Incidents (MCI). Supervisor Szeles realized more could be and needed to be done to help RAA’s providers on a day to day basis.

After becoming a member of CISM, Supervisor Szeles spearheaded efforts to create a Peer Support Program at RAA. The program was created as another tool to help paramedics and EMTs deal with the day to day stresses that come with the job. In 2018, Supervisor Szeles invited a leading expert in Peer Support to help train staff members who would become the first members of RAA’s Peer Support Team. She assisted in the creation of an awareness campaign promoting the importance of mental health and using resources like CISM, Peer Support, and external support services. She also assisted the Virginia Office of EMS by appearing in a Public Service Announcement titled “Make the Call.” The video was viewed more than 34,000 times on social media.

Supervisor Szeles has also overseen RAA’s resiliency training aimed at helping our providers bounce back from difficult events and cope with stresses from those events in a healthy way. The program helps Communication Officers, (or System Status Controllers) Paramedics and EMTs effectively manage stress and fosters professional development. Since our Peer Support Team launched in December 2018 the organization has had 122 recorded interactions with staff members. Our number of contacts has steadily risen as awareness of the program has increased. 83.6% of our contacts have been work related and 20.5% have been related to CISM. 16.4% of our contacts have involved non-work related issues. Of the employees that have taken advantage of the programs, we have seen positive outcomes and successful performances in their respective positions. Supervisor Szeles has played a key role in those successes.

RAA is now getting requests from other agencies from within and outside the state to help set up programs of their own. The work Supervisor Szeles has done is helping a wider range of EMS providers outside of RAA.

Last year Supervisor Szeles also took on major responsibilities in addition to her regular duties when our Director of Communications went on leave for surgery. For three months she stepped into the role to fill in gaps, producing daily and monthly performance reports, managing the interview and hiring process for new employees, as well as answering any calls or responding to any issues that needed to be addressed by the Communications Center. Supervisor Szeles has proven to be flexible, hardworking and an invaluable asset that has made her co-workers and our agency stronger.

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40 Under 40: Nick Romenesko (Gold Cross Ambulance Service, Inc. – Menasha, WI)

Written by AAA Staff on . Posted in 40 Under 40.

40 Under 40 nominees were selected based on their contributions to the American Ambulance Association, their employer, state ambulance association, other professional associations, and/or the EMS profession.
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Nick Romenesko
Systems Director
Gold Cross Ambulance Service, Inc.
Menasha, WI

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LinkedIn
Nominated by: Samantha Hilker
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Biography:

Nick is currently the Systems Director for Gold Cross Ambulance Service, Inc. Nick has 10 years of EMS experience and has proven to be a solutions-oriented systems thinker. Nick is genuine, thoughtful and puts employees at the top of his priority list. Nick is a young, promising leader in EMS.

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Reason for Nomination:

Nick has worked his way up from Paramedic to Systems Director in just six years. Even as a new Paramedic in the Gold Cross system, Nick was eager to get involved, create efficiencies, and solve problems. Nick was quick to volunteer for projects, build community partner relationships, and navigate a path for progress. Nick has been recognized as a Wisconsin Star of Life nominee and was recently awarded a Future 15 award. Nick currently serves on the PAAW Board and was recently elected Vice President of that association.

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40 Under 40: Corey Chapman (Acadian Ambulance Service – Lafayette, LA)

Written by AAA Staff on . Posted in 40 Under 40.

40 Under 40 nominees were selected based on their contributions to the American Ambulance Association, their employer, state ambulance association, other professional associations, and/or the EMS profession.
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Corey Chapman
Director of Revenue Cycle
Acadian Ambulance Service
Lafayette, LA

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Nominated by: Rachel Harracksingh

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Biography:

Corey Chapman has worked at Acadian Ambulance Service since 2013. Corey has a Bachelor’s Degree in Behavioral Science and a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from the University of Louisiana Lafayette. In addition to his work at Acadian, Corey is also a Board Member for the American Cancer Society of Louisiana and the Junior Achievement of Louisiana. Coey is passionate about patient care and moving the EMS industry forward.
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Reason for Nomination:

Corey Chapman is passionate about process re-engineering and improvements. During his tenure at Acadian Ambulance Service over the past six years, Corey has provided project management leadership around contracts, membership and corporate compliance initiatives. Corey was promoted in January to Director of Revenue Cycle where he leads a team of approximately 200 employees.

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40 Under 40: Ethan Taylor (Baptist Ambulance Service – Booneville, MS)

Written by AAA Staff on . Posted in 40 Under 40.

40 Under 40 nominees were selected based on their contributions to the American Ambulance Association, their employer, state ambulance association, other professional associations, and/or the EMS profession.
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Ethan Taylor
Paramedic
Baptist Ambulance Service (Member of the Priority Ambulance family of companies)
Booneville, MS

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Nominated by: Tracey Moreland (Priority Ambulance – Knoxville, TN)
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Biography:

Ethan Taylor is a currently employed as a Paramedic with Baptist Ambulance Service in Booneville, MS. Ethan is a 2010 high school graduate from New Site High School, and completed Paramedic school at Northwest Shoals Community College in 2013. Ethan began his career in EMS in 2011 as an EMT. While Ethan strives to be a better Paramedic each day his ultimate goal is to pursue a career in EMS management. Ethan’s greatest accomplishment that he speaks of often is balancing the crazy EMS life and raising his eight year old son.

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Reason for Nomination:

Ethan has exhibited much admiration and dedication while working as a Paramedic. Ethan’s passion for caring for patients is obvious. Ethan is willing to take on any task that he is assigned and enjoys educating and precepting for students and upcoming EMS professionals.

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40 Under 40: William Pitt (Puckett EMS – Chattanooga, TN)

Written by American Ambulance Association on . Posted in 40 Under 40.

40 Under 40 nominees were selected based on their contributions to the American Ambulance Association, their employer, state ambulance association, other professional associations, and/or the EMS profession.
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William Pitt
Vice President of Operations, Southeast Tennessee/Northwest Georgia
Puckett EMS (Member of the Priority Ambulance family of companies)
Chattanooga, TN

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LinkedIn
Nominated by: Amanda Jennings (Priority Ambulance – Knoxville, TN)
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Biography:

Will Pitt has more than 15 years of experience in the emergency medical service field. As Vice President of Operations, Pitt oversees a 250-person team serving 10 hospitals and five counties with 9-1-1 service in Southeast Tennessee and Northwest Georgia for Puckett EMS.

During Pitt’s time at Puckett EMS, the service has seen a 40 percent increase in service volume in his region. Pitt has also been instrumental in the design and launch of the Puckett EMS Training Academy, the largest initial education program in the region. The academy provides annual opportunities for EMT, EMT-Advanced, and Paramedic certification training to the region.

Prior to his work at Puckett, Pitt spent seven years at Walker County Fire and Emergency Services where he advanced from the field to senior management ultimately serving as the Chief of EMS. During his tenure, Pitt created a quality improvement and education division that included initial education programs from EMTs and paramedics.

Pitt has also been involved in local professional organizations. Pitt has served as the Chairman for the Georgia Region I EMS Council and Treasurer for the Southeast EMS Director’s Association. Additionally, Pitt has been a board member of the Northwest Georgia EMS Systems and the Southeast Tennessee Regional MedComm Committee.

Pitt has received numerous awards, including being named the Georgia Association of EMS Statewide Educator of the Year in 2015.

Pitt holds a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Columbia Southern University and a Bachelor’s Degree in Biological Anthropology and Anatomy from Duke University.
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Reason for Nomination:

Throughout every step of his career, Will Pitt has advanced the EMS industry in the region by developing and structuring educational opportunities and recruiting new individuals to EMS.
Recognizing a need for EMS education and training in the region, Will launched a partnership between Puckett EMS and Faithful Guardian Training Center to create the Puckett EMS Training Academy. The Academy provides annual EMT and paramedic level certification courses multiple times a year and is the largest provider of initial certification training in the region.

In the Northwest Georgia and Southeast Tennessee, like many locations in the United States, the pipeline of new professionals entering the EMS industry has been trending downward. In response to this, Pitt launched an accelerated 8-week EMT-Basic class that is completely free to the students and provides a training wage so that students can be in training full-time. By removing some of the financial barriers to beginning a career in EMS, the response to the course has been overwhelming. The academy has already graduated its first class and is currently training its second class. Additionally, Pitt is in the process of developing a program in conjunction with local high schools to provide EMT training to seniors as part of a work-based learning program.

Pitt volunteers his time in regional industry leadership having served as Chairman for the Georgia Region I EMS Council and Treasurer for the Southeast EMS Director’s Association. Pitt is actively involved in fostering collaboration across EMS agencies to improve public health and service in the region.

In 2014, Pitt was part of the group of state officials and leaders that developed the state’s first Disaster Assistance Response Task Force, which provides an organized framework and standardized education for disaster response in North Georgia. This project provides a mechanism by which the EMS leadership in a county experiencing a disaster situation can immediately mobilize dozens of ambulances and hundreds of personnel to address large-scale emergencies.

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40 Under 40: James Campbell (Montgomery County Hospital District EMS – Conroe, TX)

Written by AAA Staff on . Posted in 40 Under 40.

40 Under 40 nominees were selected based on their contributions to the American Ambulance Association, their employer, state ambulance association, other professional associations, and/or the EMS profession.
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James Campbell
Chief of EMS
Montgomery County Hospital District EMS
Conroe, TX

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LinkedIn | Twitter
Nominated by: Misti Willingham (Montgomery County Hospital District EMS – Conroe, TX)
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Biography:

Chief Campbell joined Montgomery County Hospital District (MCHD) in June of 2018 and began his role as the Chief of EMS in March of 2019. Chief Campbell began his EMS and Fire career in 2002 in Fayetteville, North Carolina. Upon returning to Texas in 2008, Chief Campbell joined the City of Celina Fire Department, where he served as the EMS Captain for four years. Chief Campbell is currently pursuing a Bachelor Degree in Emergency Health Sciences from The University of Texas Health Science Center. Chief Campbell is committed to working closely with the MCHD Board of Directors, other first responder agencies, and hospital partners to continue a successful and collaborative healthcare model in Montgomery County. Chief Campbell is a certified member of the American College of Paramedic Executives (FACPE), serves as a member on the Governor’s EMS & Trauma Advisory Council (GETAC) EMS Committee, and is a Board Member for the South East Texas Regional Advisory Council (SETRAC). Chief Campbell’s focus continues to be a people-centered approach, working to ensure that MCHD’s employees and patients are at the center of the decision-making process. Chief Campbell is proud to help lead MCHD, an organization committed to its’ mission, vision, and core values.

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Reason for Nomination:

MCHD is honored to nominate Chief of EMS James Campbell as one of the American Ambulance Association’s Mobile Healthcare 40 Under 40. Since being named EMS Chief nearly a year ago, Chief Campbell has exemplified what it means to be a true leader. Chief Campbell came from humble beginnings, starting his career as a firefighter in Fayetteville, North Carolina, then moving on to Celina Fire Department in North Texas. The City of Celina had one ambulance when Chief Campbell took on the role as EMS Captain, but just four short years later, he is now successfully running a large, county-wide agency with a fleet of 50 ambulances and 250 EMS personnel. Montgomery County is one of the fastest-growing counties in Texas. In 2019, MCHD had more than 70,000 responses – the most in the history of our county. Thanks to Chief Campbell and the team who has come to trust and value his leadership, MCHD was able to maintain the same high level of care that our patients have come to expect.

In late 2019, MCHD received its re-accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance Services (CAAS), and reviewers noted zero deficiencies during the on-site inspection. MCHD is one of only three agencies in the Houston area to receive CAAS accreditation, and Chief Campbell’s guidance has been instrumental in maintaining these high standards. Fortunately, we are not the only ones benefiting from his leadership. Chief Campbell sits on the board of the Southeast Texas Regional Advisory Council (SETRAC), and the Texas Governor’s EMS & Trauma Advisory Council (GETAC) helping to advise the governor on policies affecting EMS personnel on a statewide level. While attending the Ambulance Service Manager (ASM) certification course, Chief Campbell’s team won for its project on Fatigue Risk Management in EMS, and he went on to ensure that not only our employees benefited from the program but other EMS agencies as well. Chief Campbell presented the study’s findings on the importance of rest in EMS at the 2019 Texas EMS Alliance Conference and the 2019 Pinnacle EMS Conference.

Chief Campbell’s management style is people-centered; he works to ensure his employees and our patients are at the center of his decision-making process. Chief Campbell genuinely cares about how his decisions affect the team’s members, individually and as a whole. A good illustration of this is in our turnover rate as an organization. MCHD is at 8% for 2019, which is far below the 25-30% national average for an EMS agency.

Chief Campbell keeps a journal which he uses it to remember times of success (big and small), times of failure, and other times when he’s learned valuable lessons about leadership. Chief Campbell has all the makings of a true rising leader, someone who can take a step back and be his own worst critic while also being humble enough to learn from the team around him. With everything he has already accomplished at the young age of 35, there is no doubt that Chief Campbell will continue to be a great asset, not only for MCHD, but for the future of EMS.

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40 Under 40: Alan Brook (New Hanover Regional Medical Center – Wilmington, NC)

Written by AAA Staff on . Posted in 40 Under 40.

40 Under 40 nominees were selected based on their contributions to the American Ambulance Association, their employer, state ambulance association, other professional associations, and/or the EMS profession.
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Alan Brook
Lieutenant / Field Training Officer
New Hanover Regional Medical Center
Wilmington, NC

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LinkedIn | Twitter
Nominated by: Benjamin Calhoun (New Hanover Regional Medical Center – Wilmington, NC)
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Biography:

Alan Brook has been a Paramedic in the Southeastern North Carolina region for 13 years. Alan currently serves as a Field Training Officer for New Hanover Regional Medical Center’s EMS division, which has recently ranked as the best EMS services in the nation by EMS World. When Alan isn’t providing patient care, he can frequently be found at the local community college, where he serves as a part time instructor for the paramedic program. In his free time, Alan enjoys an active lifestyle and often competes in half marathons, scuba diving, and Olympic weight lifting.

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Reason for Nomination:

Alan developed a passion for “taking care of his own” after a coworker committed suicide. In 2014, Alan focused on the well-being of his peers, and went to training for Critical Incident Stress Management. Alan has since taken part in (and coordinated) numerous multi-agency debriefings. Alan is one of only a few “go to” staff members who are specially trained for this situation. In 2016, Alan trained his dog as a therapy dog, and is in the process of training a second dog this year. Alan is developing a program that will utilize these dogs in the near future as another tool to help improve first responder mental health.

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40 Under 40: Jenn Ford (Mid-Valley Ambulance – Springfield, OR)

Written by AAA Staff on . Posted in 40 Under 40.

40 Under 40 nominees were selected based on their contributions to the American Ambulance Association, their employer, state ambulance association, other professional associations, and/or the EMS profession.
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Jenn Ford
Manager
Mid-Valley Ambulance
Springfield, OR

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Nominated by: Shawn Baird (Metro West Ambulance – Hillsboro, OR)

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Biography:

Jenn started her career in EMS with Charleston Fire department as a volunteer. Soon afterward, Jenn decided to attend an in-house EMR class and received her First Responder certification. Jenn became interested in dispatching and was able to take a dispatching course in Coos Bay, OR. After becoming a Emergency Medical Dispatch certified dispatcher, Jenn began working with Bay Cities Ambulance.

In 2006 when the organization was acquired and there was a lot of transition with our leadership team, Jenn just naturally stepped up to fill the void. Jenn accepted the roll of Dispatch Manager but also accepted other duties to include managing the wheelchair department and becoming an essential part of senior leadership. Jenn also went on to receive her EMT certification.
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Reason for Nomination:

Jenn’s has a strong work ethic and unwavering commitment to her community. When the opportunity for growth presented itself, Jenn accepted the position of Operations Manager for our Eugene/Springfield operation and has led the organization during the process of becoming their own company. Jenn is a vital part of the Metro West family and well deserving of this honor.

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40 Under 40: Andy Ney (Paramount Ambulance – Dubuque, IA)

Written by AAA Staff on . Posted in 40 Under 40.

40 Under 40 nominees were selected based on their contributions to the American Ambulance Association, their employer, state ambulance association, other professional associations, and/or the EMS profession.
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Andy Ney
Director of Operations
Paramount Ambulance
Dubuque, IA

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LinkedIn
Nominated by: Andrew Amante (Pafford Medical Services – Hope, AR)
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Biography:

Andy was 10 years old when his mom and dad started a family-owned and operated ambulance company, Paramount Ambulance in 2003. Andy would go to the station with his dad, Marvin where the crews and ambulances were housed when he wasn’t in school. Andy was always an observant kid and could see the unity and team mentality that the EMS providers had with each other when working on tasks around the station. When 17-year-old Andy was in high school, he was with his dad driving around town running errands on July 4th, 2010. At around 11:30 am a call came in from Jackson County Dispatch to send all the ambulances that Paramount could to Bellevue for a mass casualty incident involving a horse and buggy running over spectators at the town’s Independence Day parade. Andy responded to this call with his dad in his command vehicle and when they arrived, he observed organized chaos in action. Andy saw the coordination of EMS First Responders using all of the tools and resources available to treat and move injured patients to the ambulances waiting to transport them to multiple hospitals within the region. It was that day when Andy found his life’s purpose, a career in EMS.

Since that day, Andy has accomplished more than most will in a lifetime. Andy completed his EMT course and obtained liscensure while he was still in high school. Andy then strategically went to Loras College in Dubuque, IA to study business management and finance as this would later help him excel in EMS administration. Andy graduated early in 2014, from Loras College receiving his Bachelor Degree in less than four years. Andy then studied Paramedicine at Northeast Iowa Community College (NICC) starting in 2015. Andy displayed exceptional leadership skills and was voted by the class to be the Class President of the Paramedic Class of 2016.

It wasn’t long after obtaining his Paramedic certification and licensure when Andy started getting involved in local EMS associations and volunteer work. After graduation, Andy was asked to return to the Paramedic Class at NICC to fill a role as an Adjunct Instructor. Andy regularly attended Dubuque County EMS Meetings and began seeking out mentors to help him become more versatile as an EMS Leader. It only took about one year before Andy was promoted to the Director of Operations position at Paramount Ambulance now leading EMT’s and Paramedics he used to look up to as a kid.

In 2017, Andy was asked to be part of the Pafford Medical Service’s Special Response Team for a mission to assist U.S. Virgin Island EMS on the island of St. Croix after two category five hurricanes devastated the island. This was one of the most humbling experiences Andy has had early in his career.

It wasn’t long after his return from this experience when Andy started getting nominated and voted into leadership roles with local and state associations and organizations. In short, Andy is a volunteer Paramedic for his local Fire/EMS agency Centralia-Peosta Volunteer Fire Department, an organization leader, and Critical Care Paramedic at his family’s Paramount Ambulance, the Treasurer and Executive Board Member of The Iowa EMS Association, the Vice President of the Dubuque County EMS Association, a Paramedic for the traveling Alpinestars Mobile Medical Unit to professional sports events, and a Regional Board Member for the local American Red Cross. Andy has also been a vital component of Loras College’s new Master of Athletic Training program and volunteers his off time teaching pre-hospital care to these students. Not a bad resume for an individual who has three years before he turns 30. There is no limit to what Andy can accomplish in the future.

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Reason for Nomination:

Driven in equal measure by service efficiency and quality, Andy Ney has made it his mission to lead his agency, Paramount Ambulance, into a new frontier of mobile healthcare services. For Andy, EMS is not simply a job but a career. Andy has been proactive in identifying and executing best-practice standards throughout his organization while at the same time offering a family-oriented environment for his team; which has made him beloved by all who know and work with him.

Andy is currently studying flight medicine while at the same time managing and directing all aspects of Paramount’s day-to-day operations. After dedicating his time to post-disaster medical work in the United States Virgin Islands, Andy organized Paramount’s first dedicated Disaster Operations Team which deploys to man-made and natural disasters throughout the country.

Andy is continuously engaged in local, regional, and national programs with the goal of advancing the EMS profession into the future.

The drive, ambition, and all-around professionalism demonstrated by Andy has no comparison. However, these are not the reasons we nominate Andy today; he’s nominated for his passion, enthusiasm, his love for the job, and his tireless efforts to instill these traits in those around him.

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40 Under 40: Sabrina E. Riggs (Oregon State Ambulance Association – Lake Oswego, OR)

Written by AAA Staff on . Posted in 40 Under 40.

40 Under 40 nominees were selected based on their contributions to the American Ambulance Association, their employer, state ambulance association, other professional associations, and/or the EMS profession.
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Sabrina E. Riggs
Lobbyist
Oregon State Ambulance Association
Lake Oswego, OR

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Nominated by: Shawn Baird
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Reason for Nomination

Sabrina is a lobbyist for the Oregon State Ambulance Association (OSAA). Sabrina has helped defeat a bill that would have disturbed the unbiased way that ambulance contracts are assigned. Sabarina successfully lobbied all sponsors to pull their name from the bill. After having GEMT denied for private providers, Sabrina worked with agency staff, stakeholders, and OSAA to find a viable alternative for private ambulance service providers. This Included conducting an in-depth survey of OSAA members, complicated formulas, and then drafting language, working with legislators, agency staff, and building coalitions. Sabrina also worked to kill and/or amend legislation that would create unnecessary cost burden on EMS providers.

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40 Under 40: Remle P. Crowe, PhD (ESO – Austin, TX)

Written by American Ambulance Association on . Posted in 40 Under 40.

40 Under 40 nominees were selected based on their contributions to the American Ambulance Association, their employer, state ambulance association, other professional associations, and/or the EMS profession.
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Remle P. Crowe, PhD
Research Scientist & Performance Improvement Manager
ESO
Austin, TX

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LinkedIn | Twitter
Nominated by: Amanda Riordan
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Biography:

Dr. Remle Crowe is an expert in using data to power quality improvement and research initiatives in EMS. Remle’s career in EMS began as a volunteer EMT and instructor in Mexico City with the Red Cross. During that time, Remle also worked as a Power-train Quality Engineer at Ford Motor Company, where she received black belt training in Six Sigma quality improvement methodology. From truck clutches to clinical care, Dr. Crowe has shown how improvement science and sound research methodology work to solve problems across any field. As an EMT with a passion for advancing EMS, Remle earned her PhD in Epidemiology and has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications. Now, as a research scientist and performance improvement manager at ESO, Dr. Crowe routinely uses data to improve community health and safety.
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Reason for Nomination:

As an EMS researcher, Remle is dedicated to improving the health and safety of communities (and those who serve them) using data. Remle has authored many peer-reviewed studies on topics related to clinical care and safety, such as ketamine in the prehospital environment and pediatric medication dosing errors. Remle’s work on prehospital stroke assessment for large vessel occlusion received the award for Best Scientific Presentation at the annual meeting of the National Association of EMS Physicians in January 2020. Remle has also worked on many research studies related to the health and safety of the EMS workforce. Topics that Remle has studied include violence towards EMS professionals, clinical performance feedback, and diversity in the EMS workforce. Remle’s dissertation work related to factors associated with burnout in EMS was awarded Best Research at the 2018 International EMS Scientific Symposium.

Remle is also dedicated to supporting and mentoring new researchers. Remle is an active participant in the Prehospital Care Research Forum (PCRF) and routinely serves as faculty for the bi-annual PCRF-ESO research workshops. Remle also facilitates the monthly PCRF journal club podcast that helps promote and disseminate the latest prehospital research, while helping EMS professionals learn to read and critique scientific manuscripts.

In addition to helping advance EMS research, Remle has been an important contributor to quality improvement efforts in EMS. EMS is at a pivot point, moving from using data for compliance to leveraging data for improvement. Remle has joined those leading the charge, now in her third year as faculty on the National Association of EMS Physicians’ Quality and Safety Course. In this course, participants embark on a year-long journey to make real, measurable improvement at their EMS organizations following the Institute for Healthcare Improvement’s Model for Improvement framework. As a self-proclaimed data nerd, Remle is committed to breaking things into their simplest parts and removing the intimidation factor from research and improvement science to help members of the EMS community define and focus on measures that matter.

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40 Under 40: Robert Weisbaum (Crested Butte Fire Protection District – Crested Butte, CO)

Written by AAA Staff on . Posted in 40 Under 40.

40 Under 40 nominees were selected based on their contributions to the American Ambulance Association, their employer, state ambulance association, other professional associations, and/or the EMS profession.
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Robert Weisbaum
Chief of Operations
Crested Butte Fire Protection District
Crested Butte, CO

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LinkedIn
Nominated by: Ryan McCudden (Crested Butte Fire Protection District – Crested Butte, CO)
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Biography:

Robert Weisbaum is the EMS & Fire Chief for the Crested Butte Fire Protection District (CBFPD). Robert began his career as an EMT in the suburbs of Detroit, MI and quickly earned his Paramedic as he found a passion for providing patient care. Robert quickly realized that being a Paramedic wasn’t just a job, it was a way of life and the opportunities to make a difference were endless. In addition to wanting to excel in his field, Robert dedicated himself to providing the best possible care to his patients. Robert has also helped with the professional development of countless other providers, serving as a mentor. Robert has always been known to go above and beyond the call of duty. Robert has organized fundraisers for patients and fellow colleagues when he noticed they were struggling. Robert has truly learned what it means to care and show compassion, empathy, and sympathy. Robert once was in a skydiving accident where he was severely injured. Through the care that was provided to him by the EMS team, Flight Paramedics, Nurses, and Doctors, Robert made a full recovery and witnessed how important it is to receive compassionate care. Robert strives to be an understanding leader and provide opportunities for his team to excel. Robert has shown a commitment to excellence and does not settle for anything less. Robert’s most recent endeavor has been as of Chief for CBFPD where he successfully combined a volunteer Fire and EMS department with two separate divisions into a combination paid Fire and EMS department where the standards are set high and excellence is expected.

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Reason for Nomination:

Over the years, Robert has inspired countless people to pursue a career in Emergency Medical Services. Robert works closely with the local Explorer Scout program where he helps mentor young people in the community interested learning more about their local EMS provider. Robert dedicates his time to allowing shadowing opportunities under his supervision along with after school trainings where he teaches basic skills of EMS healthcare. Robert consistently leads by example and demonstrates the skills that all EMS providers should embody. Robert is determined to keep learning within his field and has proven to be an extremely knowledgeable provider when dealing with critical scenes and complex patient care procedures. Despite being the youngest Chief, our department has ever had, Robert has always been a well-respected by his volunteers and staff. Robert has been instrumental in ensuring optimal community safety by adding a 24/7 full time crews to our department all the while still preserving the volunteer squad. Rob has effectively reinforced our emergency response system while maintaining a healthy relationship with the CBFPD volunteers who still have a desire to help the community outside of their other careers. Robert is constantly looking to improve the organization through the introduction of new equipment and recently won a grant which provided a state-of-the-art ambulance for our district. Robert has rapidly improved our response times by providing living quarters within our stations and by improving the cohesion and camaraderie among our department members. Robert fosters an environment of learning and never hesitates to give his team new training opportunities. Robert demands excellence from his staff and leads by example. Robert’s passion for his team, organization, community, and patients make him an excellent candidate for the American Ambulance Association’s 40 Under 40 recognition.

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40 Under 40: Austin Schrader (Commonwealth Health EMS – Wilkes Barre, PA)

Written by AAA Staff on . Posted in 40 Under 40.

40 Under 40 nominees were selected based on their contributions to the American Ambulance Association, their employer, state ambulance association, other professional associations, and/or the EMS profession.
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Austin Schrader
Market Director Clinical Outreach
Commonwealth Health EMS
Wilkes Barre, PA

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LinkedIn
Nominated by: Lisa Misson (Commonwealth Health EMS – Wilkes Barre, PA)
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Biography:

Austin’s dedication to his community and passion for service spawned after the tragic events of 9/11. Austin’s call to community service started as an explorer with his local fire station. At the young age of 16, Austin became an EMT. Austin excelled in his role and became the youngest supervisor for a local ambulance company. In 2007, Austin acquired his Paramedic licence and continued to lead his company by always following the golden rule, to lead by example. Austin helped to lead the way for a critical care transport services in the area, that would ultimately become the first in the region. Due to Austin and his counterparts’ tireless efforts, a critical ground program was successfully launched in 2013 with air services following a few months later. The new services offered to the community furthered Austin’s thirst for knowledge and he acquired his FP-C in 2014 followed by his CMTE in 2017. In 2019, Austin’s role in the health system changed to Market Director of Clinical Operation where his new focus will be merging the pre-hospital and hospital worlds to create better transition of care and improve outcomes. Recently Austin graduated with a nursing degree and currently is enrolled in a Master Degree program for Nursing Administration. Austin has been able to accomplish all this while maintaining his commitment to his community and raising a family.

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Reason for Nomination:

Austin’s drive and commitment to his community are unparalleled. Austin’s entire career has been in the service of others and he has developed a love and passion for EMS. Austin has been at the core of pushing initiatives that bring needed resources to our area, and in changing the framework of the hospital structure to incorporate EMS into decision making, education, and goal setting. As Austin’s career advances, he continues to put his role in EMS at the forefront and always advocates for his peers. Currently Austin is in the process of developing a large scale educational campaign that bridges EMS and different hospital service lines. At the young age of 33, Austin has made a deep impact on our community and continues to do so everyday. As his colleague I am in awe of his commitment to his community and our patients. Austin’s reach is wide and he is breaking barriers down everyday to improve the lives of so many.

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40 Under 40: Lauren Emanuelson (Advanced Medical Transport – Peoria, IL)

Written by AAA Staff on . Posted in 40 Under 40.

40 Under 40 nominees were selected based on their contributions to the American Ambulance Association, their employer, state ambulance association, other professional associations, and/or the EMS profession.
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Lauren Emanuelson
Director of Resuscitation
Advanced Medical Transport of Central Illinois
Peoria, IL

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Nominated by: Josh Bradshaw (Advanced Medical Transport of Central Illinois – Peoria, IL)
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Biography:

Lauren began her career in EMS over 11 years ago as an EMT in Peru, Illinois and is now a Pre-Hospital Registered Nurse and Cardiac Arrest Resuscitation trainer at Advanced Medical Transport (AMT) in Peoria, Illinois. AMT receives approximately 65,000 calls for service and completes approximately 57,000 transports per year, responding to an average of 250 cardiac arrests per year. In 2017, Lauren was promoted to the Director of Resuscitation overseeing Quality Improvement and Quality Assurance activities, training and education for both BLS and ALS field providers as well as collaboration with the office of the Medical Director, first responder agencies, and hospital partners. Lauren is a member of the American Ambulance Association’s Professional Standards Committee where she shares her knowledge to set best practices for the industry.

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Reason for Nomination:

Lauren has taken a very robust program, expanded it, and pushed it to greater heights. The Race to the Top program is data-driven and evidence-based, and Lauren has achieved the best measurable results we have ever seen with the project. AMT began the program with a Return of Spontaneous Circulation rate of 27%, and have now reached 45%, well on the way to their near-60% goal. The national average is just 9%. Under Lauren’s leadership, AMT’s Race to the Top program received a 2019 AMBY Award. Lauren’s skills, knowledge, and passion for her work are evident in everything she does.

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40 Under 40: Glen Simpson (Community Ambulance – Henderson, NV)

Written by AAA Staff on . Posted in 40 Under 40.

40 Under 40 nominees were selected based on their contributions to the American Ambulance Association, their employer, state ambulance association, other professional associations, and/or the EMS profession.
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Glen Simpson
Director of Special Operations
Community Ambulance
Henderson, NV

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LinkedIn
Nominated by: Janet Smith (Community Ambulance – Henderson, NV)
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Biography:

Since 2016, Glen Simpson, AEMT has been the Director of Special Operations for Henderson, NV based Community Ambulance. Simpson offers event venues and producers his more than 15 years of experience designing special medical standby plans and coordinating their implementation in Southern Nevada. Between the years 2008 and 2012, Glen personally oversaw the further development of special event medical services for his former employer, Medic West Ambulance. In 2012, Glen moved into the Operations Manager position for American Medical Response’s special event medical services in Las Vegas.

Focused on crowd management and employee and patient safety, Glen has successfully earned the repeat business of numerous major events like the Electric Daisy Carnival, Rock in Rio, Route 91 Harvest Festival, and many more. Simpson credits his success to fostering and maintaining excellent relationships with venues, producers, and the public safety officials in Clark County, Nevada. Additionally, Glen’s approach to employee training, his meticulous attention to detail and continual follow-up with venue and event producers has distinguished him as “expert” in the niche field of special event medical services. Glen is a frequent conference speaker regarding Special Event Medical Services. Most recently, Glen spent most of 2018 and 2019 presenting at more than 30 venues in the U.S. and abroad regarding his role during the October 1, 2017 mass shooting at the Harvest Festival held in Las Vegas.

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Reason for Nomination:

Glen has worked tirelessly to influence the international perception of special event medical standby personnel as being much more than a “backpack and a flashlight”. Glen has used the numerous presentations he has given around the world over the last two years to redefine and highlight the essential role that special event medical personnel play during any type of incident (large or small). Additionally, Glen has and continues to present before regional and national venue manager audiences. These executives who are pulled in a dozen different directions when securing crowd-drawing events for their facilities, are urged to reconsider contracting with an ambulance provider for event services just to satisfy an event’s medical standby insurance requirements or as just a box to check.

Glen’s experiences being the manager leading his “boots on the ground” employees during the 1 October 2017 Mass Shooting at the Route 91 Harvest Festival event in Las Vegas influences the work he does today. Glen offers his audiences sound counsel about the importance of good public safety relationships. Glen details the requirements for preparing for anything, treating the injured should violence occur, and for managing the first aid needs of event participants and attendees. Glen and his personnel have also engaged in Stop the Bleed training for event personnel and security forces.

Glen has been published for his account of the 1 October tragedy by JEMS Magazine and by EMS1.com. The New York Times covered Glen’s account of the atrocity and The Las Vegas Sun also recognized Glen and his special event crews. Glen and his special event employees were lauded during the 2018 HealthCare Heroes event in Las Vegas and their 1 Oct. story was covered by the event’s sponsor, Nevada Magazine. Glen and his team were also recognized by the American Ambulance Association at the association’s annual meeting in Las Vegas in 2017. Glen and his employees also received an honorary plaque from Clark County Commissioners for the company’s performance during the 1 October 2017 mass shooting. They were also honored by U.S. Representative Dina Titus whose remarks were read into the congressional record on October 24, 2017. Community Ambulance also received a Certificate of Recognition from the Clark County School District Community Partnership Office and from Henderson, Nevada’s Mayor, Debra March.

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40 Under 40: Matthew Philbrick (Mercy Flights, Inc. – Medford, OR)

Written by AAA Staff on . Posted in 40 Under 40.

40 Under 40 nominees were selected based on their contributions to the American Ambulance Association, their employer, state ambulance association, other professional associations, and/or the EMS profession.
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Matthew Philbrick
Medical Operations Manager*
Mercy Flights, Inc.
Medford, OR

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LinkedIn
Nominated by: John Becknell (SafeTech Solutions, LLP.)
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Biography:

Matt Philbrick is a California native but has been living in Southern Oregon for over 11 years. Matt is a Paramedic and currently works as the Medical Operations Manager of the non-profit Mercy Flights. Matt started his career as a Paramedic over a decade ago with the desire to ‘help people in need’ and has continued that philosophy in his current position. Matt now, “takes care of the people that are taking care of our community” and finds great pleasure in helping responders have meaningful careers in Emergency Medical Services.

Matt’s career in EMS has taken him in several directions including Ski Patrol, Volunteer Firefighting, ground 9-1-1 ambulance care, and critical care flight medicine. At Mercy Flights, Matt has had the opportunity to grow as a both a clinician and a leader. In his current role, Matt helps plan organic growth for the company and also manages a dynamic operation. Currently Matt is heavily involved in Oregon State EMS committees including the State Trauma Advisory Board (STAB) and the Oregon EMS for Children’s (EMSC) committees. Matt is passionate about leadership and helping his staff maintain equanimity in both their professional and personal lives.

In his free time, Matt takes great pride in volunteering for local charities. Recently, Matt placed third in “Dancing with the Rogue Valley Stars”, a local ballroom dance competition. Matt and the other ‘Stars’ raised over $137,000 for a local charity, The Sparrow Clubs. When not at work, Matt focuses on his family. Matt is married to the love of his life Michelle, and they have two great children ages five and three. Matt and his family enjoy outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, and fishing.

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Reason for Nomination:

Matt Philbrick is an exemplary leader and represents the future of EMS leadership for a new generation of EMS professionals. Matt’s ability to positively influence others and successfully lead a large team of professionals is a testimony to his abilities, character, insight, and skill. While Matt has a fine command of EMS operational and clinical excellence, he stands out because of his deep understanding of people, his ability to connect with employees of all ages and inspire them toward extraordinary achievement. Matt’s influence extends beyond his organization to participation, speaking, and teaching at state and national conferences.

Matt has responsibility for the day-to-day operations and clinical performance of a historic 70-year-old agency that provides 9-1-1 ground, roto-wing, and fixed-wing service. With more than 27,000 annual responses, Matt’s team of approximately 75 employees include Supervisors, EMTs, Paramedics, Nurses and Pilots. Matt’s focus is on creating a culture that employees love and building high dedication and engagement. During his time at Mercy Flights, a union was decertified and voted out by employees. Matt is currently developing a unique employee well-being program that goes beyond prevention and aids employees in making the very best of their work in EMS.

Matt’s approach to leadership begins by showing up with the best possible version of himself. Matt believes that his supervisors and staff deserve a leader who is authentic, genuine, and willing to grow. Relationships are the currency of Matt’s success, and he acknowledges that his team often knows what is best. Matt continuously seeks to listen, include, empower, inspire, and encourage. Matt clearly understands that EMS workers of the future expect organizations and leaders to create environments where respect, connection, and meaning are more than words and are nurtured in all aspects of the operation.

It is an honor to nominate Matt for this recognition. Matt represents the future of EMS and is a leader that will help the industry thrive in the coming decades.

 

*Matthew now works for Global Medical Response as their Manager of GMR Life (Health, Wellness, and Resilience).

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40 Under 40: Chris Anderson (Bell Ambulance, Inc. – Milwaukee, WI)

Written by AAA Staff on . Posted in 40 Under 40.

40 Under 40 nominees were selected based on their contributions to the American Ambulance Association, their employer, state ambulance association, other professional associations, and/or the EMS profession.
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Chris Anderson
Director of Operations
Bell Ambulance, Inc.
Milwaukee, WI

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LinkedIn
Nominated by: Wayne Jurecki (Bell Ambulance, Inc.- Milwaukee, WI)
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Biography:

Chris has been Operations Director for Bell Ambulance since March of 2008.

Chris became an EMT in 1999 and a Paramedic in 2004. Chris’s entire EMS career has been spent in Milwaukee, beginning with two years of full-time ambulance work, followed by various supervisory and management roles which led to his current position. In this capacity, Chris oversees all aspects of the operations of the company, from licensed ambulance personnel, maintenance of the fleet and facilities, to supplies, and equipment. Chris enjoys working with other EMS leaders to further the interests of this unique industry.

Chris is the President of the Professional Ambulance Association of Wisconsin, having first been elected to the board in 2011, where he strives to increase the quality of EMS in Wisconsin. In 2017, Chris was appointed by Governor Scott Walker to the Wisconsin EMS Board, where he was recently elected Secretary.

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Reason for Nomination:

Chris is currently serving as Secretary on the State of Wisconsin EMS board where they provide recommendations directly to the Department of Health Services on general EMS issues either assigned by legislation or raised by members of the public. Chris was instrumental in negotiating Bell Ambulance’s contract with the City of Milwaukee. Chris works tirelessly to maintain and strengthen the public relationships with government agencies and special event organizations.

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40 Under 40: Samantha Hilker (Hilker Project & Strategy Managment – Kaukauna, WI)

Written by AAA Staff on . Posted in 40 Under 40.

40 Under 40 nominees were selected based on their contributions to the American Ambulance Association, their employer, state ambulance association, other professional associations, and/or the EMS profession.
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Samantha Hilker
Private Contractor/Owner
Hilker Project and Strategy Management
Kaukauna, WI

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LinkedIn
Nominated by: Nick Romenesko (Gold Cross Ambulance Service – Menasha, WI)

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Biography:

Sam has been involved in EMS for over 10 years serving as a Paramedic, Field Training Officer, and Staff Development Manager for Gold Cross Ambulance in Menasha, WI. At Gold Cross, Sam helped to secure the transforming complex care grant through Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and helped get the organization’s community paramedic program off the ground. Gold Cross’s community paramedicine program is still active and growing today, and has made a major positive impact for patients throughout the area. After three years of success in the position of Staff Development Manager, Hilker created her own consulting firm focused on project management and strategic planning. Sam has worked for many individuals and businesses to help develop and maintain important projects. Most notably, Sam was integral in beginning a community paramedic program for the ThedaCare system.

Sam has a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership which she believes has helped her develop a broader perspective and understanding of workplace dynamics, culture, problem solving, and project management. As a consultant, Sam works creating content and helping ambulance services and organizations highlight the amazing work that they do. “Telling our story is the most important thing we (EMS) can do for ourselves. Sharing small successes, how we identify and fix personal and system failures with each other helps us grow. Sharing with the world through news and social media helps others understand what EMS is and why it is so valuable.” Sam has a deep understanding of the vital role EMS plays in the healthcare continuum. EMS is woven throughout the continuum of care – we answer calls for service, stabilize and transport patients to the next point of care, perform inter-facility transports, and we bring people back home. Sam helps her clients focus on building relationships with their healthcare partners and developing service lines and a workforce that supports their role in the bigger picture of healthcare.

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Reason for Nomination:

Hilker is focused, determined, and innovative when it comes to getting projects off the ground. Sam’s work has been focused on pushing EMS in a positive direction and looking at long term sustainability of the profession. Sam has worked with clients throughout the country to help develop systems in multiple states. Currently, Sam is leading the charge on educating the industry on Ambulance Cost Data Collection, critical to the future of EMS.

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40 Under 40: Tom Krowkowski (Umpqua Valley Ambulance – Roseburg, OR)

Written by AAA Staff on . Posted in 40 Under 40.

40 Under 40 nominees were selected based on their contributions to the American Ambulance Association, their employer, state ambulance association, other professional associations, and/or the EMS profession.
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Tom Krowkowski
Operations Manager
Umpqua Valley Ambulance
Roseburg, OR

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Nominated by: Shawn Baird (Metro West Ambulance – Hillsboro, OR)

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Biography:

Tom graduated from high school in Roseburg and went to Umpqua Community College while pursuing his associate degree in music. While studying, Tom was selected to participate in the “Umpqua Singers” and had the honor of traveling with them in 2006 while they traveled across county to deliver the “National Christmas Tree” to Washington, DC. During this trip they played approximately eight venues per day over 30 days. Once arriving in DC, Tom performed for Vice President Dick Cheney and numerous members of congress.

After receiving this associate degree, Tom went to work for Roseburg Forest Products work while learning to do all of the different tasks. While there, Tom had the opportunity to do a ride along with a close family friend who was a career firefighter with Douglas County Fire District #2. Tom was so intrigued after the ride along that while working graveyard shift, he went back to college and completed his EMT certification. Tom continued his education and received additional associate degrees in forensic science and paramedicine. After receiving his paramedic license, Tom went to work for DCFD #2.

In June 2016 DCFD #2 and Metro West Ambulance partnered to provide EMS services to some of Douglas County. In June 201,7 Tom was promoted to Shift Supervisor and stood out for his dedication and high moral standards. In November of 2018, Tom was promoted to Clinical Manager and Assistant Operations Manager.

Due to Tom’s work ethic and high standards he was promoted to Operations Manager and currently oversee’s all the different aspects of Umpqua Valley Ambulance.

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Reason for Nomination:

Umpqua Valley Ambulance is a relatively young, three year old company. Tom is rapidly taking on new responsibilities and his efforts are building a solid foundation for the future of the organization.

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40 Under 40: Charles Schwalbe (Northwell Health EMS – Northport, NY)

Written by AAA Staff on . Posted in 40 Under 40.

40 Under 40 nominees were selected based on their contributions to the American Ambulance Association, their employer, state ambulance association, other professional associations, and/or the EMS profession.
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Charles Schwalbe
Operations Manger – Support Services
Northwell Health Center for Emergency Medical Services
Northport, NY

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LinkedIn
Nominated by: Abdo Nahmod (Northwell Health Center for EMS – New Hyde Park, NY)
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Biography:

Charles Schwalbe started his EMS journey in 1998 with the Commack Volunteer Ambulance Corps as a Youth Squad Member. Charles received his EMT certification in 2000 and the EMT of the Year award in 2001. Charles quickly took a liking to the EMS field and rose quickly through the ranks of the department. Charles worked as Crew Chief from 2003-2004 and a Chief from 2005-2012. Charles currently holds the titles of Ex-Chief, Captain, and Chairman of the Board of Directors.

Charles’s professional career with North Shore-LIJ began in October of 2002 as an EMT. Charles began work in the Core and 911 Division for a few years before obtaining his Paramedic certification. Charles continued to work both the Core and 911 division, and was then asked to work on our Islip 911 response program. Later, Charles became the lead medic for our newly created Rockville Centre Private Public Partnership. Charles then got promoted to Paramedic Supervisor where he created and managed our Infections Disease Transport Team and our FEMA Response Team. Charles currently holds the title of Operations Manager where he oversees our logistics and fleet division as well as our special operations.

Mr. Schwalbe “CW” is currently a member of the Suffolk County USAR Task Force #1, DMAT NY-5, and holds the title of Deputy County Fire Coordinator. Charles has a vast background and numerous certifications relating to NIMC and Incident Command.

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Reason for Nomination:

Charles is an innovative leader and problem solver, providing adaptive solutions to many complex issues. Charles is an active listener and engaged leader. Charles is continuing his post graduate studies to increase his self-development and, leadership skills in a large health system setting. Charles is respected by his subordinates, peers, and superiors at work and is a role model for all those who work with him.

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View all of the 2020 Mobile Healthcare 40 Under 40 Honorees

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