Excellence In Service Awards

WEMSA's Annual Excellence in Service Awards are a way for you to honor both individuals and organizations who have made significant contributions to the EMS profession in the past year (and beyond).

Award nominations are vetted and reviewed by a committee of out-of-state EMS stakeholders to provide a robust and non-biased review of nominations.

 

Submit your Nomination today!

 

2025 Nominations will be open from June 1st - September 30th! Award Winners will be announced in December and awards will be handed out at the
2026 WEMSA Conference & Expo in Green Bay!

  

Important Dates

  • Nomination Period: June 1, 2025 - September 30th, 2025

  • Committee Review: Voting by the selection committee of out of state providers will commence immediately following the close of nominations.

  • Awards Announcement: Award winners will be contacted in late October or early November. They will then be honored at the WEMSA 2026 Conference at the Resch Expo in Green Bay next February!

Why Nominate?

The Wisconsin EMS Association’s Excellence in Service Awards are more than just about recognition. They’re a way to honor these that are heart of the profession. Every EMS professional, educator, support staff member, and service plays a vital role in caring for our communities. These awards provide an opportunity to spotlight the individuals and teams who go above and beyond, often without expecting recognition. Whether they’ve made a difference through decades of service, lifesaving innovation, community outreach, or mentorship, your nomination helps ensure their dedication doesn’t go unnoticed.

Help us tell the stories that deserve to be heard. If someone in your world makes EMS better, please consider submitting a nomination for them. 

2025 Award Categories

This year, we are inviting nominations for the below categories. Please click on on the + symbol to learn more about eligibility and the Attributes of an Awardee for each category. 

Eligibility: Wisconsin State Certified EMR, at time of nomination, whose primary responsibility is providing direct patient care. The nomination can speak to either a continuous positive effort that enhances the quality of EMS or can speak to a specific individual event. 

Below are Attributes of an EMR of the Year Awardee. Please use the following as guidance for writing your nomination and any supporting documents. 

This individual has made substantial contributions to the advancement and improvement of EMS services at the community, state, and/or national level.
Actively participates in community outreach and education, promoting public awareness of EMS services and health-related initiatives. This individual's positive and lasting impact on the community resonates through both direct service and broader initiatives that have enhanced public health and safety.
Maintains high standards of professionalism and expertise in their role, contributing to the advancement and recognition of EMS within the community. Shows a strong commitment to ongoing professional development, continuously seeking opportunities to enhance their knowledge and skills in the EMS field.
Exhibits outstanding teamwork and collaboration skills working effectively with other EMS professionals to achieve common goals and improve service delivery while creating and maintaining a positive, supportive and respectful work environment.

Eligibility: Wisconsin State Certified EMT, at time of nomination, whose primary responsibility is providing direct patient care. The nomination can speak to either a continuous positive effort that enhances the quality of EMS or can speak to a specific individual event.

Below are Attributes of an EMT of the Year Awardee. Please use the following as guidance for writing your nomination and any supporting documents.

This individual has made substantial contributions to the advancement and improvement of EMS services at the community, state, and/or national level.
Actively participates in community outreach and education, promoting public awareness of EMS services and health-related initiatives. This individual's positive and lasting impact on the community resonates through both direct service and broader initiatives that have enhanced public health and safety.
Maintains high standards of professionalism and expertise in their role, contributing to the advancement and recognition of EMS within the community. Shows a strong commitment to ongoing professional development, continuously seeking opportunities to enhance their knowledge and skills in the EMS field.
Exhibits outstanding teamwork and collaboration skills working effectively with other EMS professionals to achieve common goals and improve service delivery while creating and maintaining a positive, supportive and respectful work environment.

Eligibility: Wisconsin State Certified AEMT, at time of nomination, whose primary responsibility is providing direct patient care. The nomination can speak to either a continuous positive effort that enhances the quality of EMS or can speak to a specific individual event.

Below are Attributes of an AEMT of the Year Awardee. Please use the following as guidance for writing your nomination and any supporting documents.

This individual has made substantial contributions to the advancement and improvement of EMS services at the community, state, and/or national level.
Actively participates in community outreach and education, promoting public awareness of EMS services and health-related initiatives. This individual's positive and lasting impact on the community resonates through both direct service and broader initiatives that have enhanced public health and safety.
Maintains high standards of professionalism and expertise in their role, contributing to the advancement and recognition of EMS within the community. Shows a strong commitment to ongoing professional development, continuously seeking opportunities to enhance their knowledge and skills in the EMS field.
Exhibits outstanding teamwork and collaboration skills working effectively with other EMS professionals to achieve common goals and improve service delivery while creating and maintaining a positive, supportive and respectful work environment.

Eligibility: Wisconsin State Certified Paramedic, at time of nomination, whose primary responsibility is providing direct patient care. The nomination can speak to either a continuous positive effort that enhances the quality of EMS or can speak to a specific individual event.

Below are Attributes of a Paramedic of the Year Awardee. Please use the following as guidance for writing your nomination and any supporting documents.

This individual has made substantial contributions to the advancement and improvement of EMS services at the community, state, and/or national level.
Actively participates in community outreach and education, promoting public awareness of EMS services and health-related initiatives. This individual's positive and lasting impact on the community resonates through both direct service and broader initiatives that have enhanced public health and safety.
Maintains high standards of professionalism and expertise in their role, contributing to the advancement and recognition of EMS within the community. Shows a strong commitment to ongoing professional development, continuously seeking opportunities to enhance their knowledge and skills in the EMS field.
Exhibits outstanding teamwork and collaboration skills working effectively with other EMS professionals to achieve common goals and improve service delivery while creating and maintaining a positive, supportive and respectful work environment.

Eligibility: The nomination can be for an individual who has contributed either a continuous positive effort that enhances the quality of EMS or can speak to a specific individual effort. This award recognizes individuals whose efforts significantly enhance EMS services in Wisconsin, including roles such as Nurse, Physician, Law Enforcement Officer, Pilot, Supervisor, Business Manager, Administrative Assistant, or other similar positions.

Below are Attributes of a Support Champion of the Year Awardee. Please use the following as guidance for writing your nomination and any supporting documents.

This individual has made substantial contributions to the advancement and improvement of EMS services at the community, state, and/or national level.
Actively participates in community outreach and education, promoting public awareness of EMS services and health-related initiatives. This individual's positive and lasting impact on the community resonates through both direct service and broader initiatives that have enhanced public health and safety. Exhibits outstanding teamwork and collaboration skills, working effectively with other EMS professionals to achieve common goals and improve overall service delivery.
Maintains high standards of professionalism and expertise in their role, contributing to the advancement and recognition of EMS within the community. Demonstrates an unwavering commitment to supporting EMS operations, consistently going above and beyond to ensure smooth and efficient functioning of services.
Implements innovative strategies and initiatives that significantly enhance the organization’s performance, efficiency, and service delivery, contributing to measurable improvements in outcomes and community impact.

Eligibility: State Certified Educator at time of nomination whose responsibilities include but are not limited to providing education to EMS students and direct patient care. The nomination can speak to either a continuous positive effort that enhances the quality of EMS education or can speak to a specific individual event.

Below are Attributes of an Educator of the Year Awardee. Please use the following as guidance for writing your nomination and any supporting documents.

Consistently demonstrates a dedication to providing exceptional, professional education for EMS practitioners, ensuring the highest standards of learning. Shows a commitment to their own professional growth and development, staying current with the latest advancements in EMS education and practice to provide the most up-to-date training for students.
Serves as an exemplary role model for EMS practitioners, both in the classroom and within the community, embodying the values and professionalism of the EMS field. Actively mentors EMS students at all stages of their professional development, offering guidance, support, and encouragement to help them succeed.
Demonstrates the ability to engage and inspire students, fostering a passion for learning and a commitment to excellence in EMS practice.
Introduces and incorporates innovative teaching methods and tools in the classroom to enhance the learning experiences and outcomes for students.

Eligibility: The nomination can speak to either a continuous positive effort that enhances the quality of EMS or can speak to a specific individual event. This individual must be titled as a Chief or Director of a licensed service in good standing, at the time of nomination.

Below are Attributes of a Director of the Year Awardee. Please use the following as guidance for writing your nomination and any supporting documents.

This individual has made substantial contributions to the advancement and improvement of EMS services at the community, state, and/or national level. Demonstrates an unwavering commitment to supporting EMS operations, consistently going above and beyond to ensure smooth and efficient functioning of services.
Actively participates in community outreach and education, promoting public awareness of EMS services and health-related initiatives. This individual's positive and lasting impact on the community resonates through both direct service and broader initiatives that have enhanced public health and safety.
Maintains high standards of professionalism and expertise in their role, contributing to the advancement and recognition of EMS within the community. Shows a strong commitment to personal and team development through continuous learning, mentoring, and professional growth activities, ensuring that the organization stays current with industry standards and best practices.
Implements innovative strategies and initiatives that significantly enhance the organization’s performance, efficiency, and service delivery, contributing to measurable improvements in outcomes and community impact.

Eligibility: Wisconsin licensed service in good standing that is a member of the Wisconsin EMS Association.

Below are Attributes of a Service of the Year Awardee. Please use the following as guidance for writing your nomination and any supporting documents.

This individual has made substantial contributions to the advancement and improvement of EMS services at the community, state, and/or national level.
Actively participates in community outreach and education, promoting public awareness of EMS services and health-related initiatives. This individual's positive and lasting impact on the community resonates through both direct service and broader initiatives that have enhanced public health and safety.
Maintains high standards of professionalism and expertise in their role, contributing to the advancement and recognition of EMS within the community. Celebrates the dedication and teamwork within the agency, highlighting how collaboration and mutual support contribute to their success and effectiveness.
Recognizes agencies that are committed to continuous improvement, actively seeking and implementing ways to advance their services and adapt to the evolving needs of the community. Implements innovative strategies and initiatives that significantly enhance the organization’s performance, efficiency, and service delivery, contributing to measurable improvements in outcomes and community impact.

Eligibility: The nomination can speak to a continuous positive effort that enhances the quality of EMS throughout their 20 plus years of service to their community.

Below are Attributes of a Lifetime Achievement Awardee. Please use the following as guidance for writing your nomination and any supporting documents.

This individual has made substantial contributions to the advancement and improvement of EMS services at the community, state, and/or national level. Honors an individual who has dedicated 20 or more years to the EMS field, demonstrating unwavering commitment and passion for their work.
Actively participates in community outreach and education, promoting public awareness of EMS services and health-related initiatives. This individual's positive and lasting impact on the community resonates through both direct service and broader initiatives that have enhanced public health and safety.
Maintains high standards of professionalism and expertise in their role, contributing to the advancement and recognition of EMS within the community. Demonstrates the respect and admiration of colleagues and peers within the EMS community, reflecting a legacy of trust, reliability, and outstanding service.
Acknowledges the individual’s role in mentoring and developing future EMS professionals, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.

** Must be an Active WEMSA Member.

  

2025 Policies & Procedures

  • The WEMSA Awards Committee will consist of at least three (3) EMS professionals from outside Wisconsin, with NO affiliation with any of the nominees. Affiliation is defined as working with the ambulance service, training center or a history of working closely with the nominee.
  • The WEMSA Staff and/or Board of Directors will be responsible for the selection of a neutral and qualified Excellence in Service Awards committee. ALL members of the awards process - both Committee Members AND Award Candidates - will honor the confidentiality of the awards process
  • Nominations for 2025 must be submitted electronically through the following link: https://wemsa.jotform.com/team/wemsa/2025-excellence-in-service-awards
  • All applications must meet the requirements as spelled out on the Nomination Form or on the WEMSA website. Failure to meet all requirements will result in disqualification.
  • The WEMSA Awards Committee will call references and verify that the nominee has a current EMS license. 
  • The WEMSA Awards Committee will consider the application as submitted and NOT request NOR consider any information NOT included in the original application.
  • The WEMSA Awards Committee will evaluate applications based on: 
    • the completeness of the application
    • the quality of the recommendation(s) based upon the criteria defined for each award○ theimpact the person or service has had on EMS
    • any letters or documents submitted to support the application
    • Audio and video clips will NOT be considered as supporting documentation in the nomination process. 
  • Once the nomination has been received by WEMSA it will be considered confidential until the award has been announced.
  • All nominations will be submitted to the WEMSA Awards Committee electronically immediately after the deadline for nomination submission. The WEMSA Awards Committee may elect to not grant a given WEMSA award if the nominations do not meet the criteria for the award.
  • Nominations received will become the property of WEMSA and will not be returned.
  • An individual may only be selected for one individual award during a one (1) year period. 
  • The decision of the WEMSA Awards Committee is considered final.
    **Only under extenuating circumstances will the WEMSA Staff or the WEMSA Board intervene with the determination of the Excellence in Service Awards Committee.
  • Winners are announced prior to the WEMSA Annual Conference and are presented with their award at the annual conference. All award winners will be notified by phone and email prior to the WEMSA Conference.
  • Winners will be provided with one full conference pass to the annual conference and may invite family or relatives to the Awards Ceremony.
  • An individual or organization may only receive an award in the same award category ONCE every three (3) years.

Submit your Nomination today!

Previous Awardees

2024 WEMSA Excellence In Service Award Recipients

2024 Winners Press Release

2023 WEMSA Excellence In Service Award Recipients

2023 Winners Press Release

2022 WEMSA Excellence In Service Award Recipients

2022 Winners Press Release

2021 WEMSA Excellence In Service Award Recipients

2021 Winners Press Release

2020 WEMSA Excellence In Service Award Recipients

2020 Winners Video