Nominations Are Due January 16, 2026!

Do not miss the opportunity to celebrate the future of Emergency Medical Services. Empower your rising leader to grow and make an impact through this unique, transformative program.

Selection Process & Criteria

We are seeking nominations for individuals who demonstrate strong leadership potential, have made innovative contributions, and are committed to ongoing professional development.

Honorees will be chosen based solely on the information provided in the nomination form. When nominating someone, please highlight how they have made an impact on their organization, state ambulance association, or the EMS profession as a whole. We’re looking for examples that go above and beyond their regular job responsibilities. Be sure to include specific details about the nominee’s contributions so far and their potential for future growth. Please note that participation is limited and nomination does not guarantee acceptance.

Nominees must either be an emerging leader or come from a diverse background. Their job title or role within an organization is not a determining factor for selection.

In Their Own Words

“Participating in the EMSNext program has been an immensely rewarding experience that has significantly advanced my leadership journey in EMS. The mentorship, national collaboration, and opportunities to contribute to AAA board meetings and committees have empowered me to grow professionally and advocate for meaningful change. Since the program ended, I have continued to leverage the skills and connections gained. I actively engage in national forums and contribute to ongoing initiatives within the EMS community. My efforts are focused on implementing innovative practices and advocating for policies that enhance the quality and efficiency of emergency medical services. This ongoing commitment to growth and improvement underscores the lasting impact of the EMSNext program on my career and the broader EMS field.
— Tyanie Gordon, 2024 EMSNext Participant

“EMS next wasn’t just a program; it was a transformative experience. The workshops and mentorship sessions provided me with practical tools and strategies that I immediately applied to my work. I gained a deeper understanding of leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills. The connections I made with other EMS professionals have been invaluable, fostering a supportive network that continues to inspire me. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to have participated in EMSnext and highly recommend it to anyone seeking to elevate their career in EMS.” — Marco Patino, 2024 EMSNext Participant

“EMSNext has been one of the most meaningful experiences in my EMS journey so far. The mentorship aspect really stood out—getting to learn directly from leaders in our field who’ve been through it all was invaluable. It wasn’t just about sitting through sessions; it was real conversations, honest advice, and encouragement to grow. The connections I’ve made with other EMSNext participants have also been incredible. It’s rare to find a group of people who are so passionate, supportive, and driven to make EMS better. I’m walking away from this program with more confidence, a stronger network, and a fresh perspective on leadership.” — Matthew Herman, 2025 EMSNext Participant

“Being part of the American Ambulance Association’s EMSNext Program has been an incredible opportunity to learn from and connect with respected EMS leaders while gaining valuable insight into the evolving needs of our workforce. The program’s mentorship and coaching have helped me strengthen my leadership skills and better serve my organization and industry.” — Elisabeth Handgraaf, 2024 EMSNext Participant

EMSNext Program Description

EMSNext is more than an award! It is a recognition and and professional development program of the American Ambulance Association that requires active participation. The goal of this program is to recognize up-and-coming leaders within EMS and support them in building their networks and leadership skills while encouraging them to get involved in the next level of EMS leadership. This program takes mentorship to the next level, and is a way for organizations to fully engage their rising leaders through company-sponsored travel and participation in additional learning and networking events throughout the year. Program participation includes:

• • Complimentary conference registration for the 2026 AAA Annual Conference & Trade Show (April 20-22, 2026, MGM Grand Las Vegas)
  • Recognition of the EMSNext recipients during the Conference
  • Mentor pairing and additional professional development opportunities including an EMSNext specific workshop at the Annual Conference.
  • Leadership assessments, personal coaching sessions, and access to a full library of professional development tools and resources including live webinars.
  • Requested attendance of at least one other AAA Board meeting or Event in the program year.
  • Leadership Project opportunity to include presenting outcomes to the board, at a future AAA Annual Conference & Trade Show, as a webinar, or other publication opportunities. Participants may select a project internal to their organization, community, or area of passion within EMS; AAA mentor support will be provided.

EMSNext Participant Expectations:

• • Attend the Annual Conference in the year of selection.
  • Attend at least 1 additional AAA board meeting or event.
  • Engage fully in the leadership development and networking opportunities provided throughout the program year.
  • Time commitment varies based on level of involvement, number of events attended, and project selection. Organizations nominating candidate(s) for EMSNext should consider their ability to support their nominee is meeting the program requirements.

Financial Commitment

A fee of $249 will be invoiced to the sponsor organization for each nomination submitted. This fee helps cover direct expenses related to the EMSNext program. Additionally, sponsor organizations are expected to support their EMSNext participants through company-sponsored travel to AAA meetings and events, and through their time commitment to participating in the programs, projects, and activities listed above.

AAA’s Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Updated in August 2022

Caring for People—Together.
The American Ambulance Association board and its members are committed to providing high-quality healthcare to every patient regardless of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and/or on the basis of differing ability. We dedicate time, thought, and resources to fostering diversity, equity, inclusion, and mutual respect within the Emergency Medical Services workforce and leadership. Together, we save and sustain the lives of community members.