Courageous. Committed. Ready. Dependable.
These words characterize the 86,000 licensed or certified EMS providers in California. These individuals exemplify these traits on a daily basis by rendering assistance when it is most crucial and diligently upholding the efficiency of the EMS system. Nevertheless, each year, specific individuals among this group shine the brightest, either due to exceptional circumstances or their extraordinary dedication and effort.
The 2024 EMS award recipients have been selected!
Nominate an EMS Hero
Nominate an EMS Hero
EMSA will open nominations for the 2024 California EMS Awards in June. We encourage EMS providers, supervisors, and managers to submit nominations for individuals they believe are deserving of recognition.
Nominations are now closed.
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2024 California EMS Awards Nominations
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EMSA will accept nominations for the annual awards on a continuous basis. However, all nominations for the 2024 awards program must be submitted by January 31, 2025.
Become an EMS Awards Sponsor!
The California EMS Awards Program is run without incurring expenses for the State of California. Funding for the event comes from two sources: the sale of dinner tickets (with award recipients and their guests hosted) and sponsorship contributions. The event(s) could not be conducted without the invaluable support received from sponsorships within the EMS community, which plays a critical role in making these awards programs possible.
Select your sponsorship tier:
Title: $20,000 Platinum: $10,000 Gold: $5,000 Silver: $3,500 Bronze: $2,500
$20,000 – At the top-tier sponsorship level, which grants the exclusive privilege of naming the event, the title sponsor plays a central role in our event’s identity. As the event’s namesake (e.g., ‘2023 EMS Awards presented by XYZ Corporation’), the title sponsor receives prominent branding exposure and comprehensive promotional opportunities throughout the entire event, including the privilege of presenting a prestigious Award of the Year. In addition, as part of the Title Sponsorship package, we are pleased to extend eight event tickets, and we’re excited to announce that the title sponsor’s logo will be prominently featured on the event’s challenge coin as a lasting token of their support. Must commit by February 2025.
$10,000 – Platinum sponsors are key supporters and will enjoy prominent acknowledgment, including logo placement on event materials, prime positioning of banners and signage, and the opportunity to present a prestigious award of their choosing. Platinum sponsors will also receive six event tickets.
$5,000 – Gold sponsors are acknowledged as significant backers of the event and will enjoy advantages like having their logo prominently featured on promotional materials. Gold sponsors will also receive four event tickets.
$3,500 – Silver sponsors receive recognition through logo placement on event materials and two event tickets.
$2,500 – Bronze sponsors are acknowledged as event supporters and may receive recognition through logo placement on select materials.
Aside from supporting a commendable cause, sponsors are acknowledged for their contributions through various means, which encompass:
- Verbal acknowledgment during the awards program.
- Prominent placement of the sponsor’s logo on the event website.
- Promotion on social media platforms.
- Immortalization of their sponsorship in an event video posted online.
$250– Company Logo placement on event program only
For more information reach out to EMSA.ExternalAffairs@emsa.ca.gov
Award Categories
The California EMS Awards Program celebrates exceptional advocacy, meritorious deeds, acts of heroism, innovative solutions, and novel approaches that enhance EMS in the state. It also acknowledges distinctive and impactful contributions made by a diverse range of individuals, including EMS personnel, physicians, nurses, EMTs, other healthcare providers, local authorities, members of law enforcement, community members, and first responders. These awards aim to commend noteworthy accomplishments by certified and/or licensed EMS providers.
To submit a nomination, please specify the nominee’s connection to the EMS system, detail the nature of the services or acts that merit recognition, and include relevant supporting documentation where applicable.
List of Individual Awards
Medal of Valor
EMS Cross
Distinguished Service Medal
Meritorious Service Medal
Lifesaving Medal
Community Service Award
Inter-service EMS Recognition Medal
Civilian Award for EMS
The nominee must have demonstrated extraordinary personal valor by placing themselves in significant danger to save another’s life, often under extremely challenging or hazardous conditions. Their actions should have directly led to the preservation of life and mitigated further harm to the patient or others involved.
The nominee should exhibit exceptional medical skills and judgment, maintaining composure and effective decision-making under intense stress. They must have shown leadership and initiative beyond normal expectations, proactively managing the situation and coordinating effectively with other emergency responders. Resourcefulness and innovative problem-solving are essential, as well as the ability to adapt quickly to rapidly changing circumstances.
Recognition by peers and the community, supported by testimonials or endorsements, underscores the positive impact and inspirational nature of the nominee’s actions. It is imperative that the nominee adhered to ethical standards and professional conduct throughout the incident. Nominations should include comprehensive documentation, such as detailed incident reports and supporting evidence like witness statements or video footage, to verify the heroic actions taken.
The EMS Cross is awarded to a uniformed EMS Professional whose actions and achievements consistently exemplify the highest level of excellence in EMS over an extended duration. This prestigious honor recognizes sustained dedication, skill, and professionalism without the necessity of extreme conditions or extraordinary circumstances.
The nominee should demonstrate exceptional competence and proficiency in providing emergency medical care, consistently maintaining high standards of performance and patient care. Their commitment to the profession should be evident through ongoing contributions to their EMS team and the broader community, showcasing leadership, mentorship, and a positive impact on colleagues and patients alike.
The nominee must uphold the highest ethical standards and professional conduct, embodying the core values of the EMS profession in their daily work. Recognition by peers, supervisors, and the community, supported by testimonials and endorsements, highlights the lasting and positive influence of the nominee’s service.
Nominations should include comprehensive documentation, detailing the nominee’s achievements, contributions, and the sustained excellence they have demonstrated throughout their career.
This award acknowledges an individual whose service or noteworthy accomplishments have significantly impacted statewide EMS over an extended period. It is one of the highest honors, with a maximum of ten awards granted each year.
The nominee should have a proven track record of distinguished service, marked by significant contributions that have positively influenced EMS at the state level. Their achievements should demonstrate innovation, leadership, and dedication, resulting in meaningful improvements in emergency medical services, protocols, or education.
The nominee’s impact should be widely recognized by peers, supervisors, and the broader EMS community, with endorsements and testimonials highlighting the lasting significance of their contributions. This includes evidence of leadership roles, successful implementation of statewide programs, policy development, or other initiatives that have enhanced the quality and effectiveness of EMS.
Ethical standards and professional conduct are paramount, and the nominee must exemplify these values consistently throughout their career. Nominations should include detailed documentation of the nominee’s accomplishments and their impact on statewide EMS, supported by evidence such as reports, publications, and endorsements.
This distinction is conferred upon an individual in recognition of their exceptional contributions and extraordinary dedication, particularly during a specific EMS emergency or event.
The nominee should have demonstrated outstanding service or exceptional contributions that have significantly enhanced the field of EMS. This includes going above and beyond the call of duty, showcasing extraordinary commitment, resourcefulness, and professionalism during a specific incident or event.
The nominee’s actions should be characterized by exemplary performance, leadership, and a positive impact on the outcome of the emergency or event. Their dedication to their role and the EMS profession should be evident, reflecting a deep commitment to patient care, teamwork, and the community.
Endorsements and testimonials from peers, supervisors, and witnesses should support the nomination, highlighting the nominee’s exceptional service and the extraordinary nature of their contributions. Ethical standards and professional conduct are essential, and the nominee must consistently embody these values.
Nominations should include detailed documentation of the nominee’s actions, contributions, and the specific EMS emergency or event in which they displayed extraordinary dedication. This documentation should be supported by evidence such as incident reports, witness statements, and any other relevant materials.
This honor is awarded to an EMS provider who, while in an off-duty or volunteer capacity, has made a remarkably significant contribution to initiatives that lead to the preservation of a life.
The nominee should have demonstrated extraordinary dedication and skill in a situation where they were not performing their regular, on-duty EMS responsibilities. Their actions should have directly resulted in saving a life, showcasing exceptional medical expertise, quick thinking, and decisive action under pressure.
The nomination should highlight the specific circumstances in which the life-saving actions took place, providing a detailed account of the incident and the role played by the nominee. The nominee’s ability to apply their professional training and skills effectively, even when off-duty or volunteering, should be evident.
Endorsements and testimonials from those who witnessed the event, including peers, supervisors, and community members, should support the nomination, emphasizing the exceptional nature of the nominee’s contribution. Ethical standards and professional conduct are crucial, and the nominee must consistently uphold these values, both on and off duty.
Nominations should include comprehensive documentation of the life-saving incident, supported by evidence such as witness statements, reports, and any other relevant materials that verify the nominee’s remarkable actions.
This accolade is presented to an EMS Professional who has demonstrated outstanding commitment to EMS Public Information, Education, and Relations. A maximum of ten Community Service Awards will be awarded each year.
The nominee should have made significant contributions to enhancing public awareness, education, and relations within the EMS community. Their efforts should include activities such as public education programs, community outreach, public information campaigns, and fostering positive relationships between the EMS system and the public.
The nomination should highlight specific initiatives led or significantly contributed to by the nominee, showcasing their creativity, leadership, and dedication to improving public understanding and support of EMS services. The nominee’s work should reflect a sustained commitment to community service and have a demonstrable positive impact on the community.
Endorsements and testimonials from peers, supervisors, community members, and those who have benefited from the nominee’s initiatives should support the nomination, emphasizing the outstanding nature of their contributions. Ethical standards and professional conduct are essential, and the nominee must consistently uphold these values in their community service efforts.
Nominations should include detailed documentation of the nominee’s community service activities, supported by evidence such as program descriptions, educational materials, feedback from participants, and any other relevant materials that verify the nominee’s exceptional dedication and impact.
Inter-service EMS Recognition Medal
This award commends exceptional acts of heroism, extraordinary service, or noteworthy achievements by individuals who are not EMTs/Paramedics, including police officers, firefighters, lifeguards, dispatchers, and various public or private safety officers. It is bestowed upon those who have provided outstanding or exceptional support during specific EMS emergencies, events, or operations.
The nominee should have demonstrated exceptional dedication, bravery, or service in support of EMS activities. This can include acts of heroism during an emergency, extraordinary assistance in managing an EMS event, or significant achievements that have positively impacted EMS operations.
The nomination should detail the specific incident or situation where the nominee’s actions made a substantial difference, highlighting their role and the exceptional nature of their contributions. The nominee’s ability to work effectively with EMS providers and enhance the outcome of an emergency or event should be evident.
Endorsements and testimonials from EMS professionals, supervisors, and other relevant witnesses should support the nomination, emphasizing the remarkable nature of the nominee’s service. Ethical standards and professional conduct are essential, and the nominee must consistently uphold these values in their role.
Nominations should include comprehensive documentation of the nominee’s contributions, supported by evidence such as incident reports, witness statements, and any other relevant materials that verify the nominee’s exceptional actions and impact.
This award acknowledges the outstanding service of individuals who are not certified or healthcare providers but have demonstrated remarkable actions during an EMS emergency. These awards are granted based on the level of patient outcome, the challenges posed by extreme conditions, or extraordinary circumstances encountered during the emergency situation.
The nominee should have exhibited extraordinary courage, resourcefulness, and effectiveness in responding to an EMS emergency. Their actions should have directly contributed to the preservation of life or the mitigation of further harm to the patient or others involved.
The nomination should detail the specific incident or situation where the nominee’s actions made a significant difference, highlighting their role and the exceptional nature of their contributions. The nominee’s ability to remain calm under pressure, make quick and effective decisions, and provide valuable assistance to EMS providers should be evident.
Endorsements and testimonials from EMS professionals, witnesses, and other relevant parties should support the nomination, emphasizing the remarkable nature of the nominee’s service. Ethical standards and conduct are important, and the nominee must have acted responsibly and in accordance with the law during the emergency.
Nominations should include comprehensive documentation of the nominee’s actions and their impact on the emergency situation, supported by evidence such as witness statements, incident reports, and any other relevant materials.
List of Statewide Awards
EMT of the Year
Paramedic of the Year
Mobile Intensive Care Nurse of the Year
EMS Educator of the Year
EMS Administrator of the Year
EMS Medical Director of the Year
Dispatcher of the Year
The EMT of the Year Award is a prestigious recognition that celebrates Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT or AEMT) who have demonstrated exceptional quality of patient care and commitment to their communities. This award symbolizes the highest honor for an EMT, highlighting the profound impact an EMT can have on patient well-being and the broader community.
Candidates eligible for this accolade include any EMT or AEMT holding an active certification. To merit nomination for this award, individuals must have transcended the ordinary in their service to the EMS field. Nominations can be submitted by anyone who has witnessed the nominee’s remarkable qualities and contributions to the local EMS service or system.
The criteria for receiving this award are for those who have gone far above and beyond the call of duty. Nominees should embody qualities such as exceptional clinical skills, compassion, and an unrelenting commitment to improving patient outcomes. Furthermore, their contributions to the local EMS service or system should be nothing short of transformative.
To underscore the significance of their impact, letters of support from peers, local EMS directors, or others are heavily weighed in the evaluation process. These endorsements should highlight the nominee’s dedication, exceptional service, and the positive changes they have brought to their EMS community.
Nominations should include detailed documentation of the nominee’s exemplary patient care, community contributions, and transformative impact on the local EMS service or system. This documentation should be supported by evidence such as community feedback and letters of support.
Receiving the EMT of the Year Award is a testament to an individual’s extraordinary service and lasting legacy within the EMS profession. This recognition is not only prestigious but a true reflection of the nominee’s dedication, impact, and commitment to excellence in emergency medical services.
The Paramedic of the Year Award is a prestigious recognition that celebrates the exceptional contributions and dedication of paramedics (Paramedic or Critical Care Paramedic) who have demonstrated superior patient care and a strong commitment to their communities. This award emphasizes the profound impact a paramedic can have on patient well-being and the broader community.
Candidates eligible for this accolade include any paramedic holding a valid license. To merit nomination for this esteemed award, individuals must have gone beyond the ordinary in their service to the EMS field. Nominations can be submitted by anyone who has witnessed the nominee’s outstanding qualities and contributions to the local EMS service or system.
The criteria for receiving this award are stringent, reserved for those who have significantly exceeded the call of duty. Nominees should embody qualities such as exceptional clinical skills, compassion, and an unrelenting commitment to improving patient outcomes. Their contributions to the local EMS service or system should also be transformative, demonstrating innovative approaches and impactful improvements in emergency medical services.
To underscore the nominee’s significance, letters of support from peers, local EMS directors, and others are heavily weighed in the evaluation process. These endorsements should highlight the nominee’s dedication, exceptional service, and the positive changes they have brought to their EMS community.
Nominations should include detailed documentation of the nominee’s exemplary patient care, community contributions, and transformative impact on the local EMS service or system. This documentation should be supported by evidence such as patient care records, community feedback, and letters of support.
Receiving the Paramedic of the Year Award is a testament to an individual’s extraordinary service and lasting legacy within the EMS profession. This recognition not only acknowledges their exceptional dedication and impact but also showcases their role as a sign of excellence and commitment in the field of emergency medical services.
Mobile Intensive Care Nurse of the Year
The Mobile Intensive Care Nurse of the Year Award is a prestigious recognition that celebrates the exceptional contributions and dedication of a Mobile Intensive Care Nurse who has demonstrated superior patient care and a strong commitment to their communities. This award emphasizes the profound impact a Mobile Intensive Care Nurse can have on patient well-being and the broader community.
Candidates eligible for this accolade include any Mobile Intensive Care Nurse holding a valid license. To merit nomination for this esteemed award, individuals must have gone beyond the ordinary in their service to the EMS field. Nominations can be submitted by anyone who has witnessed the nominee’s outstanding qualities and contributions to the local EMS service or system.
The criteria for receiving this award are stringent, reserved for those who have significantly exceeded the call of duty. Nominees should embody qualities such as exceptional clinical skills, compassion, and an unrelenting commitment to improving patient outcomes. Their contributions to the local EMS service or system should also be transformative, demonstrating innovative approaches and impactful improvements in emergency medical services.
To underscore the nominee’s significance, letters of support from peers, local EMS directors, and others are heavily weighed in the evaluation process. These endorsements should highlight the nominee’s dedication, exceptional service, and the positive changes they have brought to their EMS community.
Nominations should include detailed documentation of the nominee’s exemplary patient care, community contributions, and transformative impact on the local EMS service or system. This documentation should be supported by evidence such as patient care records, community feedback, and letters of support.
Receiving the Mobile Intensive Care Nurse of the Year Award is a testament to an individual’s extraordinary service and lasting legacy within the EMS profession. This recognition not only acknowledges their exceptional dedication and impact but also showcases their role as a sign of excellence and commitment in the field of emergency medical services.
EMS Educator of the Year Award
The EMS Educator of the Year Award stands as a distinguished accolade, spotlighting the exceptional accomplishments of an EMS educator who has demonstrated remarkable proficiency as a teacher and has left an indelible mark on the EMS education landscape within the state. This award recognizes the profound impact educators can have on shaping the future of EMS professionals, making it one of the highest honors in the field.
Eligibility for this prestigious award extends to active EMS educators and EMS training officers who have devoted their careers to the development and mentorship of future EMS practitioners. Nominations for this accolade are open to anyone who has been inspired or influenced by the nominee’s exceptional teaching prowess and significant contributions to EMS education in the state.
To qualify for this award, nominees must exemplify excellence in EMS education through a distinguished teaching record or transformative contributions to EMS training programs. The nominations should include a detailed account of the nominee’s background, educational philosophy, and professional achievements. It should explicitly outline why the nominee deserves this prestigious recognition, highlighting their innovative teaching methods, ability to inspire students, and tangible impact on the EMS education ecosystem.
Endorsements and testimonials from colleagues, students, and EMS professionals should support the nomination, emphasizing the nominee’s dedication, innovative approaches, and significant contributions to EMS education. These letters of support are crucial in showcasing the nominee’s influence and effectiveness as an educator.
Nominations should include comprehensive documentation of the nominee’s teaching methods, educational contributions, and the lasting impact they have had on their students and the EMS community. This documentation should be supported by evidence such as student success stories, program improvements, and other relevant materials that verify the nominee’s exceptional teaching and mentorship.
Receiving the EMS Educator of the Year Award is a tribute to an individual’s exceptional dedication to educating the next generation of EMS professionals and an acknowledgment of their profound influence in shaping the future of the EMS field. This award serves as a symbol of honor and gratitude for their tireless efforts and commitment to advancing EMS education.
EMS Administrator of the Year Award
The EMS Administrator of the Year Award is a prestigious accolade that pays tribute to an EMS system administrator who has made a significant impact at the local, regional, or statewide level within the dynamic field of EMS. This award stands as an example of recognition, celebrating the profound influence and dedication of individuals who play a pivotal role in the organization and management of EMS systems within the vibrant EMS landscape of California.
Eligibility for this prestigious award extends to local EMS administrators occupying positions in supervisory operations, planning, or management capacities within the state of California. To nominate a candidate for this honor, it is vital to highlight the nominee’s notable contributions, achievements, and their overarching role in the EMS ecosystem. The nomination should provide a comprehensive narrative that paints a vivid picture of why the nominee is deserving of this distinguished recognition.
The EMS Administrator of the Year Award is not merely a reflection of an individual’s professional achievements but a testament to their commitment to advancing and enhancing the EMS system. Nominations should illuminate how the nominee has demonstrated outstanding leadership, exhibited exceptional vision and innovation, and shown a profound dedication to improving the quality and efficacy of EMS services in their respective domains.
To underscore the significance of their impact, letters of support from colleagues, team members, EMS professionals, and others are heavily weighed in the evaluation process. These endorsements should highlight the nominee’s leadership qualities, innovative approaches, and the tangible improvements they have brought to their EMS system.
Nominations should include detailed documentation of the nominee’s achievements, leadership initiatives, and contributions to the EMS system. This documentation should be supported by evidence such as project outcomes, system improvements, community feedback, and any other relevant materials that verify the nominee’s exceptional impact and leadership.
Receiving the EMS Administrator of the Year Award is not only a personal achievement but also a celebration of the positive impact an EMS administrator can have on the broader community and the well-being of patients served by the EMS system. This award signifies a true reflection of the nominee’s dedication, vision, and lasting legacy within the EMS profession.
EMS Medical Director of the Year Award
The EMS Medical Director of the Year Award recognizes a physician who has demonstrated outstanding service to the EMS system by providing medical direction, whether it be on-line or off-line. This prestigious honor is bestowed upon a licensed California physician who has meritoriously served as an EMS physician. The recipient of this award stands out for their distinguished service and notable contributions in areas such as systems development, continuing education, quality assurance, and medical community liaison.
This accolade is a testament to the physician’s commitment to excellence in the field of emergency medical services. It acknowledges their outstanding performance in guiding and supervising EMS teams, ensuring the highest standards of medical care. The awardee has not only fulfilled their responsibilities as a medical director but has gone above and beyond to make a special impact on the EMS community.
The criteria for receiving the EMS Medical Director of the Year Award extend beyond routine duties. The physician must have made significant contributions to the development of EMS systems, played a pivotal role in advancing continuing education for EMS professionals, and actively participated in quality assurance initiatives. Additionally, their role as a medical community liaison must have contributed to fostering collaboration and communication between the medical community and the EMS system.
Nominations should highlight the nominee’s exceptional leadership, vision, and dedication. A detailed narrative should be provided, outlining the nominee’s specific contributions and their impact on the EMS system. This narrative should include examples of the nominee’s efforts in systems development, continuing education, quality assurance, and fostering collaboration within the medical community.
Endorsements and testimonials from colleagues, EMS professionals, and others are heavily weighed in the evaluation process. These letters of support should emphasize the nominee’s dedication, innovative approaches, and the tangible improvements they have brought to the EMS system.
Nominations should include comprehensive documentation of the nominee’s achievements and contributions, supported by evidence such as program outcomes, educational initiatives, quality assurance reports, and any other relevant materials that verify the nominee’s exceptional impact and leadership.
Receiving the EMS Medical Director of the Year Award is a recognition of an individual’s extraordinary service and lasting legacy within the EMS profession. This award not only honors their outstanding performance but also their profound influence on the EMS community and the quality of emergency medical services provided.
The Dispatcher of the Year Award is a prestigious recognition that celebrates the exemplary performance and outstanding dedication of EMS dispatchers who have demonstrated exceptional skill, professionalism, and commitment in their role. This award highlights the critical impact dispatchers have on emergency medical services, ensuring efficient and effective communication and coordination during emergencies.
Eligibility for this prestigious award extends to any dispatcher who has shown remarkable proficiency in handling emergency calls, coordinating response efforts, and providing vital support to EMS teams and the public. Nominations can be submitted by anyone who has witnessed the nominee’s exceptional qualities and contributions to the EMS system.
To merit nomination for this esteemed award, individuals must have transcended the ordinary in their service as a dispatcher. The criteria for receiving this award are stringent, reserved for those who have gone far above and beyond the call of duty. Nominees should embody qualities such as exceptional communication skills, quick decision-making, calmness under pressure, and a strong commitment to improving emergency response outcomes.
The nomination should include a detailed account of the nominee’s background, specific examples of their outstanding performance, and the impact of their work on the EMS system and community. It should highlight instances where the nominee’s actions made a significant difference in emergency situations, demonstrating their exceptional abilities and dedication.
Endorsements and testimonials from colleagues, EMS professionals, supervisors, and community members are heavily weighed in the evaluation process. These letters of support should emphasize the nominee’s professionalism, exceptional service, and the positive changes they have brought to the EMS system.
Nominations should include comprehensive documentation of the nominee’s achievements, supported by evidence such as call records, commendations, performance reviews, and any other relevant materials that verify the nominee’s exceptional impact and leadership.
Receiving the Dispatcher of the Year Award is a testament to an individual’s extraordinary service and lasting legacy within the EMS profession. This recognition not only honors their outstanding performance but also their profound influence on the efficiency and effectiveness of emergency medical services. The award showcases their role as a beacon of excellence and commitment in the field of emergency medical dispatching.
Special Recognition Ribbons
The EMS Authority authorizes the following decorations, although they are not bestowed during formal ceremonies. Individual EMS Professionals who meet the specified qualifications are permitted to wear these decorations:
Educational Achievement Recognition
An EMS Professional must have completed an associate degree or higher from an accredited institution. Nominees can submit their own applications. To qualify, send a copy of your diploma. This award recognizes your commitment to advanced education and professional growth in the EMS field.
Service Achievement Recognition
May be worn by an EMS Professional who has completed 10 years of service. Numerals (2+) may be worn for every subsequent 10 years.
Clinical Excellence Award
Recognizes an EMS Professional who provides noteworthy patient care and treatment during the course of their duties. A detailed description of the noteworthy achievements must be provided.
Contact Information
If you have any questions or need further information, please contact externalaffairs@emsa.ca.gov.