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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40 Under 40: Joshua Holloman (Johnston County Emergency Services – Clayton, 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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Joshua Holloman
Deputy Director
Johnston County Emergency Services
Clayton, NC

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LinkedIn | Twitter
Nominated by: Emily Johnson (Johnston County Emergency Services – Smithfield, NC)
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Biography:

Joshua B. Holloman, MHS, NRP, CEMSO, is the Deputy Director of Johnston County Emergency Services in North Carolina. Josh is a certified paramedic, firefighter, and Emergency Medical Dispatch instructor. Josh is an advocate for increasing education, professionalism, and leadership within emergency services.

Josh obtained an associate of applied science degree in EMS from Wake Technical Community College in Raleigh, N.C. and attended Western Carolina University, obtaining a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Health Sciences degree. Holloman has served Johnston County in positions including Cadet, EMT, Paramedic, Training Officer, and Division Chief, prior to becoming Deputy Director for the Emergency Services Department.

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Reason for Nomination:

Josh Holloman is a constant professional who deserves to be recognized as an inaugural recipient of the Mobile Healthcare 40 under 40. Josh has played a significant role in the development of the local EMS system in Johnston County, North Carolina and uses his experience and knowledge of EMS to benefit other departments and individuals throughout the state of North Carolina and beyond.

Beginning his journey as a 15-year-old cadet, Joshua started in Johnston County at a local rescue squad as a member of a junior program. Josh progressed through the ranks of EMT, Intermediate and then Paramedic. Josh served on local rescue squads during a period of transition from reliance on volunteers to dependence on full time career staff. When the county wanted to centralize EMS services and build a county EMS system, Josh was hired as the first Training Officer of the system. Josh worked with a new Medical Director and helped him better understand the field of EMS while also building the training and clinical program for the county. After serving three years as Training Officer, Josh received a promotion to Division Chief, overseeing the entire EMS system as Chief of EMS within the County Emergency Services Department. It was evident this meant a great deal to Josh, serving and building a system in the county in which he was born and raised. There was risk involved however, as Josh became the fifth person to hold this position in the last three years. Josh would go on to hold the position for seven years, leaving only to accept a promotion to Deputy Director of the Emergency Services Department.

One of Josh’s top priorities is taking care of his employees, who he believes he is there to serve. Josh has done everything from creating a dispatch center, implementing consistent uniforms standards, and increasing vehicle safety. On the clinical side, Josh has implemented many new best practices such as working cardiac arrest calls where they are found, STEMI, trauma and stroke by-pass, and treatment protocols. Josh has a great understanding of and belief in the value of the Incident Command System (ICS). Josh has taught several courses on ICS and has trained most of the personnel working EMS in the county on the principles of ICS and how they can benefit in the medical field. Josh also led the creation of policies and protocols to guide response to multiple patient incidents. Josh has created safer environment for every patient and employee.

Another great accomplishment that the system achieved with Josh at the helm is the creation of a very successful Community Paramedic Program. In 2013, Josh led the initial discussions of a program that would offer preventive care and help patients who call 911 excessively because of some unmet medical or social need. In addition, Josh helped form a strong partnership with the local hospital system by using the program to treat their high-risk patients and reduce readmission rates. Josh has delivered presentations across the country on best practices for community paramedicine programs and provides guidance to others who are starting or managing these program.

Josh uses his experiences to help others by teaching incident command, emergency medical dispatch, and leadership throughout the state and country. Josh has led local associations and groups including the Johnston County EMS Association where he assisted in creating a local scholarship fund and the Johnston County Local Emergency Planning Committee, which he chaired from 2013-2018 and helped improve emergency preparedness for local industries. In addition, Josh has presented at conferences for and is a member of the North Carolina Association of EMS Administrators (NCEMSA). Josh also is a member of the National EMS Management Association (NEMSMA), International Association of EMS Chiefs EMS Section (IAFC-EMS) and is a peer reviewer for Chief EMS Officer Candidates with the Center for Public Safety Excellence (CPSE).

Josh is a dedicated professional who believes in EMS and those providers who answer the call. Josh leads by example and stands by his word and with his people. Although Josh has already accomplished a great deal, he still has a very promising future. Josh is well deserving of recognition from The American Ambulance Association’s Mobile Healthcare 40 under 40!

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40 Under 40: Rachel Taradash (Pro EMS – Cambridge, MA)

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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Rachel Taradash
Assistant Director – Pro EMS Center for MEDICS
Professional Ambulance Service (Pro EMS)
Cambridge, MA

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LinkedIn
Nominated by: Rob Lawrence (AAA Board of Directors)

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Biography:

Rachel Taradash is the Assistant Director for the Pro EMS Center for Medics, a position she has held for the last five years. Pro Center for Medics was the first nationally accredited paramedic program in the state of Massachusetts and offers one of the most rigorous paramedic programs in the U.S., as well as a variety of specialty courses that are designed to allow EMS service providers to achieve the highest standards in the industry. Rachel is responsible for the development of the center’s academic content and implementation of the clinical curriculum. Rachel is a natural educator and has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Education, which combined with her previous experience as a high school teacher enables her to ensure that the highest possible standard of education and training is delivered.

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Reason for Nomination:

The 40 under 40 are being highlighted by the American Ambulance Association to recognize those they believe are the future of the EMS and Mobile Healthcare profession. As a Paramedic, clinician and professionally trained educator, Rachel is developing and delivering the highest possible level of EMS clinicians of the future. Rachel is enthusiastic and dedicated to this essential task and well-deserving of this recognition.

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40 Under 40: Nick Eastman (Gundersen Tri-State Ambulance – Onalaska, 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 Eastman
Program Manager – Clinical Services
Gundersen Tri-State Ambulance
Onalaska, WI

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Nominated by: Tom Tornstrom (Gundersen Tri-State Ambulance – La Crosse, WI)

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Biography:

Nick began his career in EMS in the year 2000 at the age of eighteen as a volunteer first responder in West Salem, Wisconsin. While volunteering, Nick was soon elected as the vice president of the association and then training officer. In 2003, Nick was awarded the West Salem EMS Person of the Year.

Nick excelled in his new found passion for EMS and quickly progressed to become a Paramedic and secure work with Gundersen Tri-State Ambulance as a full-time career Paramedic. During his time at Tri-State, Nick has taken on numerous different and progressively challenging roles. From Paramedic, to Critical Care Paramedic, to Shift Supervisor and Technology Coordinator, to Operations Supervisor, and now in his current role as a Program Manager and Educator.

In addition to his many accomplishments at Tri-State, Nick has strong interest in computers and technology as well as matters involving logic. Nick’s keen interest and skill at playing poker is his way to relax between the many challenges of work life. You may even see Nick playing poker with the pros in Las Vegas.

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Reason for Nomination:

The moment Nick entered the building on his first day at Gundersen Tri-State Ambulance many years ago, it was patently clear that he was not only passionate about EMS but also completely committed to being the best paramedic he could be while challenging those around him to do the same.

Nick’s belief in being the best clinician possible drives his efforts to improve the knowledge, understanding, and practice of all EMTs and paramedics in our organization. Nick is truly committed to this task and it shows. With Nick’s engaging and well-prepared educational lectures and training, our first-pass intubation success rates have improved to the best they’ve ever been. In addition, Tri-State has become a leader in STEMI and stroke recognition and care, our cardiac arrest survival rates are praiseworthy, and our paramedics and EMTs are excited and engaged about their learning.

Nick has held many roles during his tenure at Tri-State. While a Shift Supervisor, Nick also held the role of Information Technology Coordinator for our growing organization. Between his supervisory duties and field work, Nick designed our Intranet, restructured our ePCR flow, maintained numerous computer servers, oversaw our complex network, and worked tirelessly to maintain our heavy reliance on technology. On many occasions, Nick created custom programming and processes to help our paramedics and EMTs avoid frustrations and to increase efficiencies. Even today, our corporate technicians find themselves reaching out to Nick at times for advice and guidance with our information systems.

While a Clinical Operations Supervisor, Nick worked closely with our medical director to completely re-write our clinical protocols and guidelines, a process that he is remains integrally involved in today. In addition, Nick created our first formalized orientation and Field Training Officer program which continues to be the foundation of our very successful on-boarding process.

In his latest role as a Manager, Nick has combined his love for logic and technology with his passion for teaching to create a sophisticated and progressive clinical services department. Nick was able to get a handle on tracking of complex continuing education requirements while giving employees easy access to view their training history and progress toward their individualized goals. In addition, Nick is incorporating diverse data elements into our clinical practices and decision making processes. These are but a few of Nick’s contributions since his acceptance of this latest role less than two years ago.

Of all Nick’s tangible and technical accomplishments, he feels the most accomplished and valuable when sharing his knowledge through his role as an educator. Nick’s passion for teaching shows as our clinical proficiency improves and our staff become increasingly engaged.

Nick’s unparalleled work ethic combined with his never-ceasing willingness to learn and take on new responsibilities have made him the perfect candidate for the American Ambulance Association’s 40 Under 40 recognition.

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40 Under 40: Catherine Counts (University of Washington & Seattle Medic One – Seattle, WA)

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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Catherine Counts
Acting Instructor (UW) & Research and Quality Improvement Manager (SMO)
University of Washington & Seattle Medic One
Seattle, WA

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LinkedIn | Twitter
Nominated by: Rob Lawrence (AAA Board of Directors)
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Biography:

Dr. Catherine R. Counts is a second-generation EMS professional who, after taking an ambulance to show and tell in kindergarten, was hooked. Dr. Counts has since transitioned this interest into a career focused on the patients and providers in the pre-hospital setting. Dr. Counts also has research interests in domestic healthcare policy, quality and patient safety, and organizational theory and culture. Given the crossover between her background in public health and her expertise in EMS, Dr. Counts specializes in the mechanisms by which providers are changing the way healthcare is delivered in the pre-hospital setting.

Dr. Counts has worked across the healthcare spectrum from EMS to long term care and is well versed in the systemic issues facing the American healthcare system. In addition to her work at the University of Washington, Dr. Counts serves as a consultant for a variety of quality improvement and EMS related projects, and contributes as a columnist for a number of trade publications.
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Reason for Nomination:

For EMS to advance into the future the industry must rely on evidence-based research and a scientific approach to the type of pre-hospital medicine delivered on the streets. EMS agencies must also ensure that Public Health partners are fully integrated to ensure prevention becomes as much a part of our ethos as mobile healthcare provides, as response and transport is. Catherine Counts Ph.D. represents this future. Dr. Count’s academic achievement and more importantly, her published work suggests she is already affecting the future direction of mobile healthcare. EMS agencies do not only need operations directors and executives to take the industry into the future, they also need an academic brain trust to steer science and performance. Dr. Counts represents that future and is an excellent candidate for the American Ambulance Association’s inaugural 40 under 40.

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40 Under 40: Anthony Taylor (Indianapolis EMS – Indianapolis, IN)

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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Anthony Taylor
Lieutenant Paramedic & EMS Educator
Indianapolis EMS
Indianapolis, IN

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LinkedIn
Nominated by: Kelly Russ (Indianapolis EMS – Indianapolis, IN)
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Biography:

Anthony J. Taylor has worn many hats in the healthcare industry, and he has worn them admirably. While completing secondary education, Anthony has held positions doing revolutionary work in public health, disease intervention, pre-hospital emergency medicine, and academia at the university level. With six years clinical experience as an Emergency Medical Technician, and only one year clinical experience as a nationally registered Paramedic, Anthony has already been a vital to policy and protocol changes within the operations and academic services at Indianapolis EMS (IEMS). While enrolled in paramedic school at IEMS, Anthony was also completing graduate work at Indiana Wesleyan University and received his Master of Public Health degree within just a few months of his capstone phase of paramedic school. Despite the difficulty of those two tasks combined, Anthony was awarded the Paul K. Jolliff Award for Academic Excellence upon the completion of the Paramedic Science Program within the Indiana University School of Medicine’s (IUSOM) Health Professions Department. Impressed by his academic ability and strong work ethic, Anthony was offered a position within the same department just one month after he graduated and currently works as volunteer faculty for the IUSOM, and full-time faculty for Academic Services at IEMS teaching Anatomy and Physiology, a pre-requisite for IEMS’ Paramedic Science Program. Anthony is also a central part of curriculum building for the Paramedic Science program, analytics, and from time to time, information technology for some of the Indiana’s first hybridized paramedic programs.

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Reason for Nomination:

From a very young age, Anthony J. Taylor has strived for perfection in his education and his professional ventures. Being raised by a single mother, who worked more than full-time hours, Anthony’s story could have gone one of two ways. Working in public service, more times than not, we see the story that ends with the single mother trying her best, but unfortunately the children still falling through the cracks. However, like Japanese pottery, Anthony’s mother filled those cracks with gold and celebrated their family’s imperfections so that her children would become not only successful members of society, but also sympathetic and loving adults; a vital characteristic of EMS leaders of the future.

With his sights set on becoming a physician, Anthony enrolled in an emergency medical technician class while completing his undergraduate studies. What Anthony didn’t realize while trying to supplement his income in medical school, was that he ended up discovering a love for pre-hospital medicine. It was then, in 2014 that Anthony decided to pull back from medical school and begin his professional journey in Emergency Medical Services (EMS). In a very short time, Anthony has become a nationally certified EMT and Paramedic, a Primary Instructor for the State of Indiana, won academic excellence awards, the State of Indiana’s EMS Governor’s Cup, and been hired as full-time faculty for the largest EMS academic staff in the State of Indiana.

Despite his successes, Anthony continues to strive for more. While taking on a more than full workload with his new position, Anthony continues to work operationally on the streets of Indianapolis and Morgan County, Indiana as a paramedic and is applying to doctoral programs.

Anthony is definitely a future leader in EMS and well deserving to be selected as one of the American Ambulance Association’s 40 Under 40.

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40 Under 40: Dan Gillespie (Allegiance Mobile Health – Georgetown, 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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Dan Gillespie
Chief Operating Officer
Allegiance Mobile Health
Georgetown, TX

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LinkedIn
Nominated by: David Lee (Allegiance Mobile Health – Georgetown, TX)

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Biography:

Dan Gillespie is an experienced senior level executive with over 15 years of healthcare experience. Dan has a proven track record of success in growth strategy, P&L management, cost reduction techniques, merger & acquisitions, and operations management.

Dan truly cares about his patients and will do whatever it takes to deliver high quality care. Among his employees, Dan has developed a culture of empowerment with an emphasis on enabling growth from within the organization. Dan approaches each patient individually from the perspective of how best to meet their needs and solve their problems in an innovative and open-minded fashion. This can be seen by the fact that Dan puts over 1,000 miles a week on his truck in order to be able to meet in-person with patients, staff, and organizational leadership.

Dan has a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration/Organizational Leadership from the University of Indianapolis where he graduated in the top of his class. Dan simultaneously attended Ivy Tech State College of Indiana where he majored in Accounting.

Dan’s experience in business is multifaceted from private to publicly traded corporations, non-profit healthcare systems, and public sector government owned operations.

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Reason for Nomination:

Dan has approached the EMS Industry with the perspective of how can quality of care be improved through innovation and empowerment while demonstrating the business acumen to allow these changes to be sustainable. Dan has risen quickly throughout his career and manages one of the largest ambulance services in the nation, but he always credits his team before himself. Dan truly cares about his patients, employees, and customers and he lives the core values of CLIMB (Compassion, Leadership, Integrity, Modern, and Benevolent). Dan has already made an impact on our industry and he has the passion, aptitude, and experience to take EMS and its role in the Healthcare System to the next level.

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40 Under 40: Jeremy Tinter (Sunstar Paramedics – Largo, FL)

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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Jeremy Tinter
Director of Clinical Services
Sunstar Paramedics
Largo, FL

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LinkedIn
Nominated by: John Peterson (Sunstar Paramedics – Largo, FL)

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Biography:

Jeremy Tinter is Patientcare Logistics Solutions’ Director of Clinical Services for the Pinellas County Florida Operation. Jeremy served as the Clinical Services Coordinator for Sunstar Paramedics from June 2015 to June 2016 and held various positions ranging from Field Training Officer, Critical Care Paramedic, and Assistant Supervisor over the past 10 years. Jeremy’s emergency medical services career has not only been in clinical care but also focused on education and training. Jeremy holds many instructor ratings ranging from AHA to NAEMT, leads the simulation lab for Pinellas County, and has been responsible for the successful clearing of clinicians to the field. A certified Paramedic in the state of Florida, Jeremy has also served as an adjunct, non-credit faculty/CME Instructor at St. Petersburg College and has taught continuing education classes through the Pinellas County Authority CME Program to EMTs, Paramedics, and Nurses.

Jeremy was the proud recipient of the 2016 American Ambulance Association’s “Star of Life” award.

Jeremy is a native of Florida and a longtime resident of Pinellas County. Jeremy earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of South Florida (USF) and is a graduate of the EMS Leadership Academy, class of 2016. Jeremy is currently working on his Master degree at USF.

In his free time, Jeremy plays classical guitar, jogs, enjoys photography, and going to the movies.

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Reason for Nomination:

In just a few years as Director, Jeremy Tinter has made significant process changes and improvements that have streamlined the hiring and training processes at Sunstar. Under his leadership, the Clinical Services Department was recognized at the state level as Educator of the Year for the State of Florida in 2017. Jeremy’s department was also recognized on the national level by the American Ambulance Association as an AMBY award winner that same year.

Jeremy has shared his best practices with other EMS providers by being published in JEMS. Jeremy has also been a guest speaker at the American Ambulance Association’s annual conference as well as at the Midwest EMS Expo.

Jeremy serves as volunteer on the board of directors at 211 Tampa Bay and is a graduate of the Leadership Pinellas program class of 2019. Jeremy definitely deserves to be recognized as one of the 40 under 40 to watch in EMS.

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40 Under 40: Gibson McCullagh (Pro EMS – Cambridge, MA)

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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Gibson McCullagh
Director of Special Projects & Strategic Initiatives
Professional Ambulance Service (Pro EMS)
Cambridge, MA

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LinkedIn
Nominated by: Rob Lawrence (AAA Board of Directors)

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Biography:

During college, Gibson worked with a variety of EMS agencies, including fire-based, private, volunteer, and collegiate. Gibson was the founding EMS Chief of Hobart & William Smith EMS, a student run ambulance service in Geneva, New York. Gibson’s academic capstone work was on the regulatory role of the US Federal Government within modern EMS. After college, Gibson moved to Cambridge where he graduated from the Pro EMS Center for MEDICS’ paramedic program.

From 2013 until 2015 Gibson served as the Systems of Care Coordinator at the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Office of EMS. Much of Gibson’s work was focused on identifying and implementing best practices through regulation and protocol. Gibson assisted in the implementation of a series of EMS regulatory reforms (national standards adoption) to strengthen Massachusetts’ workforce, protocols, education, and medical director involvement.

Since 2015 Gibson has held the position of Director of Special Projects at Pro EMS. In that role, Gibson worked to develop Prodigy, pursued institutional accreditation, implemented clinical demonstration projects, and functions as the Clinical Liaison and advisor to Harvard University’s program, Crimson EMS. Gibson remains actively involved in collegiate EMS at the national level and serves as an Executive Board Member for the Metropolitan Boston EMS Council.

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Reason for Nomination:

The American Ambulance Association’s (AAA) 40 under 40 wonderfully recognizes Gibson’s already impressive achievements. Gibson is recipient of the 2019 AAA President’s Award. Gibson was honored for his service as a rising mobile healthcare leader who will help shape the future of the EMS industry. As Vice Chair of the AAA Professional Standards Committee Gibson is lending his voice on the national stage. Gibson’s work as a member of Pro EMS’s leadership team is shaping the direction of the organization and influencing the development of EMS across the North East. Simply put, Gibson is one to watch.

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40 Under 40: James DiClemente (Pro EMS – Cambridge, MA)

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 DiClemente
Director Pro EMS Center for MEDICS
Professional Ambulance Service (Pro EMS)
Cambridge, MA

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LinkedIn
Nominated by: Rob Lawrence (AAA Board of Directors)

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Biography:

As Director for the Center for MEDICS, James’s primary responsibility is to design and implement all training and education for Pro EMS employees and more than a dozen outside agencies who contract their training through Pro EMS and Pro EMS Center for MEDICS. This includes creating and delivering H.A.L.O training, new employee orientation, and other training sessions as needed. James also maintains the simulation facilities and equipment used at Pro and Center for MEDICS.

As the Paramedic Program Director, James graduates two large cohorts of students per year, ensuring they receive a comprehensive experience resulting in an impressive National Registry pass rate. James and his team have developed a unique program focusing on the benefits of simulation in a paramedic program and he continues to implement cutting edge technology to maximize efficiency. In 2012, James was recognized with Educator of the Year award by the Metropolitan Boston Emergency Medical Services Council. James is a member of the National Association of EMTs and National Association of EMT Educators. James serves as Community Training Center Faculty in all American Heart Association disciplines and is a content developer and lead educator in the Center for MEDICS’s distance learning platform. James began working at Pro EMS in 2008 and graduated from the Paramedic Program at Pro EMS Center for MEDICS in 2010.

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Reason for Nomination:

James has been the cornerstone of the Pro EMS center for MEDICS in Cambridge MA for the last eight years. James has developed and implemented educational programs for over 800 EMS professionals with a pass rate in the high 90th percentile. James was instrumental in the creation of Pro EMS’s own Learning Management System – Prodigy which to date has trained over 5,000 providers through its distributive education methods.

In addition to this remarkable work, James is also a MEDscience instructor at Harvard Medical School where he has created simulations and learning material for those enrolled. The on-line Prodigy system is shortly about to be scaled up onto a national platform and James will inevitably be a thought leader in this arena on a national level very soon.

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40 Under 40: Chase Hodges (Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service – Bolingbrook, IL)

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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Chase Hodges
General Manager Illinois
Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service
Bolingbrook, IL

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LinkedIn
Nominated by: Kim Godden (AAA Board of Directors, Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service – Elmhurst, IL)

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Biography:

As the General Manager, Chase has been instrumental in reshaping the culture of EMS at Superior Ambulance. Chase’s view on safety as not a part time commitment, but a true full time commitment has helped reduced accidents by 40%. Chase sits on Superior’s retention committee, Field Training Officer and training committee, and policy and procedures committee. Chase is also a part of Superior’s Special Event team which provides EMS for events happening all over the Chicago Land area, and is a member of the Ebola transport team.

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Reason for Nomination:

Chase is being nominated for this honor for many reasons that cannot be fully expressed in such few words. Chase started in EMS with our company as a para-transit driver and also worked as a dispatcher and EMT before being chosen as a General Manager overseeing several stations, including one of our largest stations located in Chicago. Chase oversees 248 employees and through his positive attitude and understanding of every aspect of EMS, he is able to make sure staff is customer focused and patient driven. Chase also assists with our company’s recruitment and retention efforts and is always the first one (even when it involves coming into work while on vacation) to participate with important government relations meetings and ambulance ride-along events which help not only our company but the EMS industry overall.

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40 Under 40: Brian Levinsky (Northwell Health EMS – Staten Island, 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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Brian Levinsky
Manager of Training & Preformance Improvement
Northwell Health Center for Emergency Medical Services
Staten Island, NY

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

Brian Levinsky is presently the Manager of Training and Performance Improvement for the Northwell Health Center for Emergency Medical Services (CEMS). As an Eagle Scout, Brian felt the need “to help other people at all times” and in 2001 began his career in EMS as an EMT. In 2004, Brian graduated paramedic school and was recognized with an award for academic excellence. Brian continued to further his professional education, completing the University of Maryland, Baltimore County’s Critical Care Emergency Medical Transport Program in 2006, in 2011 completing a Bachelor of Science in Health Administration and is presently pursuing a Master of Arts in Health Law and Policy.

In 2012, Brian was promoted to Paramedic Supervisor and in 2018 was promoted to his current manager role. In June 2018, Brian was elected to a four-year term as an At Large member of the Regional Emergency Medical Services Council of New York City.

Brian is driven to succeed with a clear vision of leading our CEMS teams to reach their potential. Brian continues to be a respected and well–liked leader with a consistent Press-Ganey Tier 1 rating for Employee Engagement. Brian is open minded and listens to suggestions from everyone, pays attention to detail, and works hard to meet deadlines. Brian is a great mentor, communicator, team builder, innovator, and leader. Brian demonstrates the “soulful” side of employee welfare and engagement as well as the “smart” sides of financial stability and resilience of our culture. Brian has often stated that the delivery of a quality service in an efficient process leads to successful long-term outcomes.

When not at work Brian enjoys spending time with his wife Brianna, his son Sam, and his German Shepherd Sergeant.

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Reason for Nomination:

At the CEMS, Brian has shifted employee training to a competency-based model with a focus on development and remediation. Additionally, Brian implemented objective methods of evaluating employees based on best practices from national credentialing and accrediting bodies. Under Brian’s leadership, the CEMS has integrated training and quality into one unit with quality metrics, driving training curriculum and competency assessments. Brian continues to raise standards through continuing education of the CEMS team. Brian selflessly presents to agencies in the region on performance improvement best practices with a goal of raising the quality of care delivered throughout the region. In is role as an At Large Member of the Regional Emergency Medical Service Council of New York City, Brian works to improve and coordinate emergency medical services throughout New York City.

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40 Under 40: Brian Walls (Huron Valley Ambulance – Ann Arbor, MI)

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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Brian Walls
Paramedic Supervisor
Huron Valley Ambulance
Ann Arbor, MI

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LinkedIn
Nominated by: Paul Hood (Huron Valley Ambulance – Ann Arbor, MI)
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Biography:

Brian Walls has worked at Huron Valley Ambulance (HVA) for 15 years working his way up from Wheelchair Van Driver to Paramedic Supervisor. Brian currently serves as a Senior Critical Care Paramedic, part-time Paramedic Supervisor, and holds the roles of Medical Officer and Coordinator for the Washtenaw County Hazmat, Special Pathogens, and Technical Rescue teams at HVA. Through Brian’s responsibilities, he has had both a local and national impact on new protocols and standards for hazmat and special pathogens. Specifically, Brian assists with public health preparedness and acts as an EMS liaison to regional healthcare partners as well as regional and state health departments.

Brian has written hazmat policy, procedures, and the Special Pathogens Response Guidebook for HVA’s special response team that has been adopted by the State of Michigan. Additionally, Brian’s leadership on the Technical Rescue Team has created an invaluable resource to surrounding communities for all aspects of technical rescue response by updating and creating state treatment protocols and medical operations.

A lifelong resident of southern Michigan, Brian graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Public Safety in 2013. Brian is a volunteer firefighter in Milan, Michigan. Brian and his wife recently welcomed their first child, Riley Ann.
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Reason for Nomination:

Brian is an outgoing and personable individual who is well liked and respected by all. Brian wears many hats at HVA which includes functioning as a Senior Critical Care Paramedic, part-time Road Supervisor, and Medical Officer and Coordinator for the Technical Rescue Team and the Hazmat teams. Brian actively works in his various roles to raise the bar in EMS. Brian puts 110% into everything he does and always maintains a positive demeanor and professional attitude. Despite being so busy, Brian is always very caring, compassionate, and thorough while performing all his duties.

Recently, Brian was tasked to prepare and establish a Special Pathogens Response Team, specifically for Ebola patient transfers. Brian researched, attended multiple trainings out of state at the National Ebola Training Education Center (NETEC) and the Center for Domestic Preparedness for Highly Infectious Diseases, and visited fire departments who transported confirmed Ebola patients in 2014.

Brian continued researching for over two years, training with his team several times a month, while obtaining feedback to develop procedures and guidelines for Washtenaw County. This resulted in Brian writing a copyrighted guidebook called, The Special Pathogens Response Guidebook that guides EMS agencies through an entire patient transfer from start to finish. This includes pre-incident planning, donning and doffing, patient transfer, communications, hand off, waste disposal, disinfection, and emergency procedures. In addition to writing the response guidebook for EMS, Brian worked with his team and the local treatment center to create a custom designed Highly Infectious Disease Unit (ambulance) that improves the safety of his crew while in Hazmat suits. This custom-built ambulance improves ventilation and temperature control, thus increasing the time crew members can be in Hazmat suits. The specially designed ambulance also minimizes the amount of hazardous material waste that needs to be collected by our local treatment center and reduces the amount of time it takes to disinfect and place the ambulance back in service.

Finally, Brian reached out to the NETEC to schedule a site assessment for EMS, which it had never done before. NETEC used HVA’s Special Pathogens Response Team and Guidebook as a pilot to establish their own site assessment algorithm to help EMS programs with a special pathogens transport around the nation.

Through his hard work and dedication, Brian has expanded HVA’s response area from only transporting in a couple counties of Michigan, to becoming the backup agency to assist all EMS agencies for the entire state of Michigan. Brian continues to work with Michigan state and local health departments in special pathogens response and preparedness.

Brian’s attention to detail and dedication to positively impact policy change are what makes him stand out in EMS.

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40 Under 40: Kelly Russ (Indianapolis EMS – Indianapolis, IN)

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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Kelly Russ
EMS Educator
Indianapolis EMS
Indianapolis, IN

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Linked In 
Nominated By: Anthony Taylor (Indianapolis EMS – Indianapolis, IN)

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Biography:

With eight years of clinical experience as a Paramedic, Kelly Russ currently serves the roles of Lead Instructor of the Paramedic Science Program at Indianapolis Emergency Medical Services and as a volunteer faculty member at the Indiana University School of Medicine. After completing her Master of Public Affairs degree from Indiana University, Kelly continues to challenge herself in the workplace by working to expand EMS education and to advance paramedic science programs in Indiana. Currently, Kelly is in the process of applying to doctoral programs.

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Reason for Nomination:

Despite facing challenges during her childhood and early working career, Kelly Russ took a leap of faith and dove headfirst into the field of Emergency Medical Services and immediately fell in love with the profession. With nine years of EMS experience, Kelly has chosen to pursue her passion of educating students and has been an instructor at Indianapolis Emergency Medical Services (IEMS) for the past five years. In this time, Kelly has balanced teaching full-time, completing a bachelor’s degree, a Master of Public Affairs degree, clinical field time, and raising six children as a single mother. Early in her teaching career, Kelly earned the position of Lead Paramedic Instructor among our faculty and has continued to take on more and more responsibilities with each working day. It is safe to say that Kelly is the super glue that holds our paramedic program together. Whether engaging with community members, designing fundraiser events, developing innovative curricula, facilitating psychomotor practical examinations, or coordinating the program accreditation, Kelly continuously goes above and beyond her job responsibilities and demonstrates an unmatchable work ethic.

Passion is defined by Merriam-Webster as “a strong liking or desire for or devotion to some activity, object, or concept.” Through Kelly’s work and the ongoing success of her students, it is easy to see that she truly embodies what it means to be passionate for EMS. Kelly has devoted much of her career as a Field Training Officer, Clinical Preceptor, and Paramedic Educator to further advancing the EMS profession and to preparing students to take on the role of providing Advanced Life Support care in the mobile health care setting. Kelly personally identified a geographic shortage of educational opportunities in the southern portion of Indiana and through collaboration has launched the first satellite paramedic education program in the state, incorporating live online courses. As one of Kelly’s former students, I can attest that her knowledge and positive outlook on the profession is remarkable and that she instills a sense of responsibility, confidence, and clinical knowledge in each of her students. Though all of these components are part of an educator’s role, Kelly distinguishes herself by truly caring for each student as they progress through the program, complete required examinations, obtain their license, and advance in their careers. From the student perspective, Kelly has an innate maternal instinct that allows for inclusion and cohesion within each cohort of students. Kelly forges a personal connection with each student and remains in contact to discuss runs and simply ‘check in’ post-graduation.

Kelly has fought hard to overcome many challenges and continues to put that determination into her teaching to help mold the best paramedics possible so that they can continue to provide high quality mobile health care. In the past decade, Kelly has continuously advanced her career and those of her students. Kelly’s legacy will leave a lasting footprint in Indiana. It is with utmost excitement and confidence that Indiana EMS nominates Kelly Russ for distinction as one of the American Ambulance Association’s “40 under 40” honorees.

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40 Under 40: Craig Boschert (St. Charles County Ambulance District – St. Peters, MO)

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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Craig Boschert
Deputy Chief of Operations
St. Charles County Ambulance District
St. Peters, MO

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Nominated by: Kyle Gaines (St. Charles County Ambulance District – St. Peters, MO)

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Biography:

A lifelong resident of St. Charles County, Craig Boschert has spent more than two decades providing assistance to those in need. Craig’s history of public service started in 1998 when he began volunteering with Orchard Farm Fire Protection District. Three years later, Craig earned his Paramedic certification at St. Louis Community College, and began a career with St. Charles County Ambulance District (SCCAD) shortly thereafter. In 2008, Craig was promoted to Battalion Chief – a role that enabled him to mentor dozens of new Paramedics entering the SCCAD system. Four years ago, a retirement among the District’s leadership team led to Craig’s promotion to Deputy Chief of Operations. In this role, Craig works closely with Platoon and Battalion Chiefs to ensure that each of the Ambulance District’s Paramedics are developing and promoting best practices so that the mobile healthcare provided exceeds expectations.

Craig has been married to his wife, Renee, for more than a decade. The couple resides in Orchard Farm with their sons, Caleb and Curtis.
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Reason for Nomination:

Craig Boschert began his career with St. Charles County Ambulance District (SCCAD) nearly two decades ago as a volunteer EMT, providing care and comfort to friends and neighbors in the rural communities of the District’s service area. While volunteering, Craig opted to turn his desire of helping others into a career, earning his Paramedic license and joining the SCCAD team full-time in 2002. Through the years, Craig has proved himself as a strong clinician, staunch patient advocate, and capable leader. In 2008, Craig was promoted to Battalion Chief – a role that has enabled him to mentor dozens of Paramedics throughout the years.

Though past achievements as a Paramedic and Battalion Chief are noteworthy, those undertaken since his promotion to Deputy Chief of Operations are what truly showcase Craig as a forward-thinking leader within our industry.

Craig’s ascent to Deputy Chief occurred in 2016 and came at a pivotal time in the District’s history. Call volume was rising steadily with no signs of slowing. In order to keep response times short amid significant projected growth over the next decade, the District would need to add numerous stations and vehicles at planned intervals. Craig was charged with developing a 10-year operation plan for the organization, and with assistance from his team developed a robust capital improvement framework. Craig spared no detail, gathering information from a variety of sources to chart planned neighborhoods, commercial developments, roadways, and population centers that would eventually contribute to call volume. Thanks to his foresight, District leadership was provided with a comprehensive snapshot of the next decade that enabled leadership to clearly communicate the forthcoming needs to our community when asking for their approval to issue bonds for the project.

In addition to capital needs, Craig is also responsible for ensuring that work force needs are addressed. SCCAD’s 48-hour shift staffing model requires that six full-time paramedics be promoted from our part-time non-emergency transfer division when a new 911 truck is added to our fleet. Craig is thoughtful in his timing, working closely with transfer leadership to ensure that an addition will not create trickle-down staffing challenges. Though new emergency division employees have typically been with SCCAD as transfer division paramedics for approximately two years at the time of their promotion to full-time, Craig provides a thorough orientation, clearly conveying the expectations of their new role within our organization.

As a senior leader, Craig never loses sight of the fact that SCCAD must take great care of its team in order to be successful. In recent years, the effects of post-traumatic stress, compassion fatigue, and secondary trauma have been well-documented among first responders. For too long, individuals in our line of work pushed aside troubling experiences, simply moving on to the next call. Craig has been an instrumental part of bringing about a culture change here in St. Charles County. When crews respond to challenging calls, Craig is often at their station within short order to check on them. Craig immediately arranges Critical Incident Stress Debriefing not only for our staff, but for any others involved in the call. Craig has worked together with our human resources team to ensure employees are aware of counseling and other programs available to them, and most recently, championed the development of an employee-led Peer Support Committee.

Since assuming the role of Deputy Chief, SCCAD has faced several significant operational events. Most have been weather-related, and each time, Craig works diligently with others on our team to ensure that our community is protected, no matter how long the hours. Most significantly, our region faced historic flooding in 2019, with access to one rural town completely cut off. Working closely with our Deputy Chief of Special Operations, Craig developed a plan to staff the “island” 24/7 to ensure residents had access to emergency care if the need arose. For over 60 days, SCCAD’s Urban Search and Rescue Task Force staffed the community of Portage Des Sioux, transporting patients out by boat if the necessary. The conditions were less than ideal but strong leadership and teamwork made the operation a success.

Though his workload SCCAD is substantial, Craig makes time to give back to the community he serves. Most notably, Craig has been heavily engaged in the St. Charles County CAPS (Center for Advanced Processional Studies) program, hosting groups of high school students for half-day sessions at our stations. Craig covers a wide array of topics with the students who are leaning towards careers in the health field, providing an exhaustive overview of our industry and organization. Students leave Craig’s sessions with a new outlook on EMS, and several have even enrolled in the District’s EMT training course.

Including his time spent as a volunteer firefighter, Craig Boschert has dedicated more than 20 years to serving St. Charles County. The programs and practices Craig has worked tirelessly to put in place will serve our organization and community well for decades to come, and SCCAD is proud to nominate him for the American Ambulance Association’s 40 Under 40.

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40 Under 40: David Basnak (EmergyCare – Fairview, PA)

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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David Basnak
Operations Manager
EmergyCare
Fairview, PA

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LinkedIn
Nominated by: Karen Jakiel (EmergyCare – Erie, PA)
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Biography:

David Basnak started his emergency services career when he was sixteen years old at his local fire department in Jamestown, Pennsylvania. While a Senior in high school, David attended a locally hosted EMT class. After graduating from high school, David worked locally in Greenville, Pennsylvania as an EMT and attended Penn State University (PSU) pursuing a degree in information, science, and technology. As David’s interest in the EMS field continued to grow, he decided to attend a local Paramedic program. For fourteen months, David attended both PSU and the Paramedic program through Butler County Community College, completing both programs. After gaining experience as a Field Paramedic, David worked to continue to pursue his EMS career through various leadership positions. Over his career, David has held the titles of Continuous Quality Improvement Coordinator, Personnel Director, EMS Specialist, Senior Manager of Pre-hospital Care, and most recently Operations Manager. Currently, David oversees all field operations for EmergyCare, one of the largest non-profit EMS organizations in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. EmergyCare, located in Erie, Pennsylvania, provides mobile health care to seven counties in Northwestern Pennsylvania. David holds a master’s degree in Business Administration from American Military University, is a Certified Medical Transport Executive through the Medical Transport Leadership Institute, Board Certified Emergency Manager through The International Association of Emergency Managers, and holds his Flight Paramedic Certification through the International Board of Specialty Certification. David’s current role has him on an Executive leadership track to continue his professional organizational development at EmergyCare.

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Reason for Nomination:

David Basnak should be recognized as one of the American Ambulance Association’s Forty Under 40 as he has demonstrated excellence and great promise throughout his career in pre-hospital medicine and Emergency Medical Services. David is recognized as a leader throughout Northwestern Pennsylvania and is respected by his colleagues not only in the EMS field but also clinicians in our regional health care facilities.

In his short tenure at EmergyCare, David’s leadership, guidance, and expertise has assisted EmergyCare in recruiting and retaining EMS providers (currently at 95% staffing). David has helped to redesign our new staff orientation and on boarding and he continuously leads by example by regularly jumping on a truck and answering calls with the crews.

David’s constant thirst for learning has made him a great resource for staff and our organization’s leadership. David is always willing to go above and beyond for the mission of EmergyCare. Furthermore, David is a servant leader. David puts the EmergyCare team first, by focusing on the needs of team members, acknowledging their perspectives, and giving them the support they need to be the best they can be. David involves staff in decision making when appropriate and has built a stronger sense of community among the staff.

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View all of the 2020 Mobile Healthcare 40 Under 40 Honorees

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