Board Member: Shaunna Bryant

Background & Inspiration

Shaunna Bryant's entry into EMS wasn't planned. Her initial exposure came through working at an EMS billing service, where the owner encouraged her to pursue EMR training despite having no prior EMS experience. There was some hesitation at first — but by the end of the class, something clicked and sparked a genuine interest in the field.

What inspired her to keep going was a strong desire to help others, especially during some of the most difficult and vulnerable moments in their lives. "Providing not only medical care but also reassurance and support to patients and their families during times of crisis is incredibly meaningful," she says. "The opportunity to make a real difference when it matters most, while combining compassion, critical thinking, and hands-on care, is what makes EMS such a fulfilling path."

Her connection to the Waushara community also played a major role. A genuine appreciation for the people and the sense of community developed while living there, and that connection remained strong even after moving away — continuing to influence her path in EMS as she stayed on the department in Waushara.

One of her most formative early memories was sitting in the back of an ambulance with a paramedic preceptor on a call with a patient who had terminal cancer. At the time, it felt like something had to be said or done — like there should be the "right" words to fix the situation or make it better. But the paramedic changed that perspective completely. There wasn't a big intervention or speech. Instead, there was quiet presence — just sitting with the patient, offering calm reassurance, and not trying to force conversation where it wasn't needed. That moment made it clear that EMS isn't always about doing something technical or dramatic. Sometimes, the most important thing you can do is simply be there for someone in a difficult moment. That experience stuck because it reshaped what care really means — it's not just about skills and protocols, it's also about empathy, reading the situation, and understanding that presence itself can be powerful.

Career Path

Shaunna's EMS journey has been a steady progression, shaped by both education and real-world experience. It started with EMR, though she didn't spend any time practicing at that level before moving into an accelerated EMT-Basic course that same spring. By the fall, she completed additional training as an IV tech.

After that initial push, she worked in the field for about four to five years, then went to paramedic school. A couple of years later, she continued into critical care.

Along the way she has taken on additional roles and responsibilities — becoming a BLS CPR Instructor, serving as a union steward for Waushara, and working as a preceptor and mentor for new hires at Waushara.

Shaunna became a WEMSA member around the time of her EMT certification in 2007. From the beginning, there was an interest not just in practicing EMS, but in understanding how education, advocacy, and professional development shape the field as a whole. What motivated her joining and continuing involvement was a desire to make a broader impact beyond individual patient care. It allowed for involvement in advancing training standards, connecting with other providers, and contributing to the growth and professionalism of EMS across the state. She has also served as education chair. Over time, that motivation has stayed consistent: continuing to give back to the profession, support high-quality education, and help develop the next generation of EMS providers.

Getting Involved with WEMSA

What excites Shaunna most about being part of WEMSA is watching EMS education continue to evolve and improve over time. "There's something meaningful about seeing familiar faces who have been coming to events for years alongside new members who are just getting started — both groups bringing energy and enthusiasm to learn and grow in the profession."

It's also been inspiring to see real progress on a larger scale — like the PTSD bill getting signed and efforts that improve access to education and training. "Those kinds of changes make a lasting impact on EMS professionals and the future of the field."

Another highlight for Shaunna is the people behind the organization. "Leaders like Anette, Breana, and Alan bring incredible passion and dedication. Even without being actively in EMS roles, their commitment to supporting providers and advancing education is clear, and it shows in everything WEMSA does."

One challenge she sees EMS providers facing right now is the way the public often misunderstands what EMS actually is. "There's still a perception that it's just volunteer work or 'ambulance driving,' when in reality it's a highly skilled profession that requires critical thinking, medical knowledge, and a strong sense of compassion. EMS is not something passive or entertainment-based — it's not what's seen on TV or social media. It's real medicine, often in unpredictable and high-pressure environments." She sees WEMSA as essential in addressing this — elevating and spotlighting EMS providers and services across the state, reinforcing that every service plays an important role in the community, and showing that EMS is a vital part of healthcare, not just a response system. "At the core, EMS providers show up for people at some of the worst moments of their lives. Organizations like WEMSA help ensure they are supported, educated, and recognized for delivering the high level of care patients deserve."

Personal Connection & Impact

Being part of WEMSA has had a meaningful impact on Shaunna both personally and professionally. On a personal level, it has helped with confidence and communication — especially as someone who tends to be more introverted. Getting involved in conversations with members, speakers, and other providers has made it easier to step out of her comfort zone, build relationships, and feel more comfortable networking in professional settings. Professionally, WEMSA has provided opportunities to learn from a wide range of experienced EMS leaders and educators, expanding her perspective on how EMS is practiced across the state and reinforcing the importance of collaboration and shared learning.

Her favorite WEMSA experience is the annual conference. It consistently stands out because of the quality of education and the opportunity to learn from a wide range of knowledgeable speakers and educators. "The continuing education sessions are not only relevant to real-world EMS practice, but they also challenge you to think differently and grow clinically." She also really appreciates the recognition and awards portion of the event. "It's meaningful to see providers and services being acknowledged for their dedication, hard work, and impact in their communities. It reinforces the value of what EMS professionals do every day and highlights the importance of the work across all levels of care."

Looking Ahead

Shaunna's vision for the future of EMS in Wisconsin is for it to be fully recognized and established as an essential service statewide. "EMS is not optional or secondary care — it is a critical part of the healthcare system, and that recognition needs to be reflected in funding, staffing, and long-term support." She sees organizations like WEMSA as playing an important role in advancing that vision by consistently demonstrating that EMS providers are highly trained, professional, and capable clinicians. "Continued advocacy, education, and visibility help reinforce that EMS is an essential public safety and healthcare resource, not just a transport service. Ultimately, the goal is a system where EMS is supported at every level so providers can continue delivering high-quality, compassionate care to the communities they serve."