GEMSA Board of Director Candidates 2023

Please read the biographical information below about the candidates and why they want to be on the board or elected as a division vice president. You will get to vote for THREE at-large candidates and 1 vice president in your division.  See more voting instructions on the bottom of this page.

Voting closes on September 30, 2023, so vote today!  

If you have questions or problems logging in, contact Mary Napier, GEMSA Communications Specialist.

AT-LARGE CANDIDATES (in alphabetical order by last name)

Chad Black (incumbent), Grady EMS

After careful consideration and looking back over the past eight years serving on the GEMSA board, the last six as Chairman, I would consider it an honor and truly be humbled if you elect me to serve on this wonderful and hard-working board for another two-year term. Having now eight years as an elected board member, I had one more year when I was first asked to join to fill a vacancy when a board member resigned, so I have nine total years of serving on the GEMSA Board.

I have over 40 years of experience in Fire, EMS, and Air Medical. Currently, I am still working in a consulting role for EMS, and recently decided to dip my toes back in the water where I will be working both in the field and with the administration of high volume E.M.S. system on a PRN basis. I served until January 2022 as Director/Fire Chief for Habersham County Emergency Services. In addition, over 31 years with Hall County Fire, retiring in 2016 as Deputy Fire Chief, and 16 years in Air Medical, working as a flight medic, business manager, and governmental affairs advisor. Over the past almost eight years, I have had the honor to serve as a board member, and the last six as Chairman of the Board for GEMSA, being part of such a successful organization in providing EMS education, two annual conferences, and working with our State Legislature on EMS issues. Yet, we still have work to complete. This past year, and anticipated in the coming years, EMS legislative issues continue to come up, and we work hard to address those. We spend many hours at the State Capital on behalf of EMS yearly. Having solid and well-established relationships, we can help push good EMS bills through and help stop bills that would be detrimental to EMS. This past year, the GEMSA Board approved working with Grady and our State Legislature to place an EMT and Paramedic, fully staffed with ALS equipment, to give EMS more exposure to our elected officials, and have in place, ready to respond, in high stress and visited public environment. This pilot project was a success, and now we have been asked to staff this again for the 2024 Legislative Session.

I want to continue and be part, to see this work to a successful end. GEMSA, due to hard work by our Executive Director and staff and direction by the board, completed, at no cost, with Trauma Commission funding, almost 180,000 contact hours of EMS education to providers across this state. It was truly a fantastic accomplishment. GEMSA continues to have a solid and dedicated slate of board members, and while one person does not make a difference, I can be an integral part of this wonderful board that can make a difference. I humbly ask for your vote again; if you feel the accomplishments and improvements over the past eight years, I have been a board member deserves another term. I would be grateful for your vote and promise to continue working hard for EMS across this state and nation to see that our profession remains at a high level of professionalism, commitment and operationally on sound footing moving forward.

Jason Davey, Habersham County Emergency Services

My name is Jason Davey and I currently serve as the Chief of Operations for Fire and EMS at Habersham County Emergency Services. I oversee all day-to-day operations and fill in for the Director when needed. I have been employed with Habersham County full-time since May of 1999. I started as a Firefighter and over the years have worked my way toward the top while performing at different supervisory levels.  In my career I have seen the good and the bad in emergency services and want to help grow our profession in a positive and professional manner. There are many benefits to being a member of GEMSA and to me the greatest are having a voice at the legislative level, educational opportunities and possibly in the future having an EMS pension fund. I understand being a board member comes with great responsibility and opportunity because we are the voice for the people we represent, and we make decisions that affect our profession. I would like to be part of the solution and assist others in making our profession the best it can be for all EMS agencies in Georgia. I recently received my associate degree in FESA from East Georgia State College. I am also a graduate of the GEMSA Leadership Class #8. Thank you for your time and consideration.  

Brian Donaldson, Peach County EMS & Rescue

Over the past four decades, I have served as both a BLS and an ALS provider, on the ground and in the air. For the past 20 years, I have served in leadership roles in our profession in Colorado, Nebraska, Iowa, and Wisconsin. I relocated to Georgia in 2022 to take the position of Director of EMS & Rescue for Peach County.  Over the course of my career, I have been appointed or elected to numerous local, regional, and state boards, committees, and task forces. Most recently serving on the Wisconsin EMS Association Board of Directors, in the roles of board member, Treasurer, Vice-President, and President. During my time on this board, we accomplished many things to include, redesign the delivery of continuing education by the association, work collaboratively to establish a state EMS memorial park and design an EMS monument, work with the legislature and governor's office to enhance EMS funding by millions of dollars annually, and work with the Medicaid office and state elected officials to significantly improve Medicaid reimbursement for EMS providers.  I hope you’ll consider allowing me the opportunity to bring my experience and passion to the Georgia EMS Association Board of Directors. Thank you. 

Thomas Doyle, Atrium Health Navicent EMS

I’m writing to express my interest in the member at large position. My name is Thomas Doyle. My current position is Captain of operations for Atrium Health Navicent EMS. I have been with this organization (3 name changes) for 34 years. During my time, I have held many positions. Communications Manager, EMT, Paramedic, Asst. Supervisor, Supervisor and now Captain. I was also employed with Houston Ems as a Prn Paramedic for 17 years. I feel confident that my experience can help with the vision and mission of GEMSA. I have a deep appreciation for GEMSA and the work this association is involved in. I’m passionate about EMS and the association mission and I believe I can contribute toward it in a impactful way. Thank you.

Allen Fambrough, Barrow County EMS

I began my EMS education at the age of 13 by becoming a First Responder in 1988. I responded to calls with my father, who was also a volunteer firefighter and First Responder until I was able to drive and respond on my own. While a Senior in High School I attended Lanier Tech and obtained my EMT-I certification. My first EMS job was at Critical Care Transports in Lawrenceville. From there I went to work at Walton County Hospital EMS and Walton County Fire Department. After a short employment with the fire department I went to work at Rockdale County Fire Department where I worked from November of 1996 until November of 2007. At this point I went to work for Gwinnett County Fire and Emergency Services and again attended Lanier Tech for Paramedic School which I completed at the end of 2008. I worked my way up through the ranks to finally become a shift Medical Supervisor. I left there to become a Health and Safety Manager for Netflix on the show Stranger Things Season 4 and after the filming for the season was completed I decided to return to EMS and have since work for Northeast Georgia Medical Center as part of Barrow EMS. During those years of working at the two fire departments I worked at private services such as ProCare EMS, Amerimed, and Metro, as well as returning to the newly formed Walton County EMS when it was removed from the authority of the local hospital.   I have been involved in EMS in many different capacities from volunteer to paid, from First Responder through EMT-I and into Paramedic, and from private to county services and would like to ensure EMS in the state continues to move forward. I would like to become more involved on a higher level improve EMS across the state.

Brent Glaze, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta

I started EMS in 2003 working for Atlanta South Ambulance, in the time since I have worked for several public and private agencies. I am currently with Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta working as a flight paramedic supervisor.  I am passionate about serving as a board member of the Georgia EMS Association due to my unwavering commitment to the EMS community and my desire to contribute to its growth and advancement.  Throughout my 20 years of experience in EMS, I have witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by EMS professionals and the critical role that the association plays in advocating for their needs. As a board member, I would have the opportunity to actively shape policies and initiatives that directly impact the lives of EMS providers across the state.    By serving on the board, I envision collaborating with like-minded individuals to address key issues, foster innovation, and ensure that the voices of EMS professionals are heard at all levels of decision-making. Together, we can work towards enhancing the recognition, support, and professional growth of EMS providers in Georgia.    In conclusion, my profound dedication to EMS, coupled with my experience, leadership abilities, and advocacy for education, make me an ideal candidate for the board. I am eager to contribute my skills, knowledge, and passion to the Georgia EMS Association and help shape a brighter future for EMS professionals across the state. 

Samuel (Sam) Haag, Air Evac Lifeteam

My experience in EMS started in 2003 after graduating high school by starting my EMT-B Class.  A couple years later I finished paramedic school and moved my wife and I to Texas for a career opportunity.  After having our children there and wanting to be closer to family, we moved to Georgia to finally be home.  I have since worked in rural South Georgia in the roles of a FTO, Lieutenant for SGMC EMS, Flight Paramedic, and currently am the Base Clinical Lead for Air Evac in Tifton.  If chosen to be a GEMSA board member, I would like to continue to raise awareness of GEMSA events and trainings throughout Region 8 and the state.  This program not only benefits the clinicians by providing them with education and training, but also benefits the communities they serve.  I would strive to be a voice for all levels of providers when it comes to advancing medicine in Georgia.

Lance Hansard, Central EMS

Lance Hansard is a Paramedic with more than 29 years of experience in the Emergency Services field both as Management and as a Provider. Lance is currently the Director of Communications at Central EMS and has also served as a Station and HQ Captain, Commander, Assistant Operations Manager, and Division Chief for 911 Operations during his 15-year tenure. Lance also has 11 years in the fire service as part of his resume.    Lance has made a career of serving others, and it is now time to serve his fellow peers as he continues his journey. Lance was part of the 2021 GEMSA Leadership Training Course where he received the inaugural Superior Servant Leadership Award. It is time to give back to the organization that has given him so much. Lance would be honored to have the privilege to serve in this capacity for the Georgia EMS Association. 

Reg P James III, Amerimed Medical Solutions, LLC

Starting my EMS career as an EMT in 1983, earning my National Registered Paramedic certification around 1989, I have extensive experience in all aspects of emergency medical services including as a provider, supervisor, training officer, administrator and executive.  I've also been involved with pioneering innovative service models such as MIH and CP Services.  I want to lend my experience and expertise to GEMSA as a board member.

Jared (Jed) Jarrett, Air Evac 140 / Dodge Co EMS Education

Jared started his career in southwest Georgia as an EMT in 2003. He finished his Associates in EMS/Paramedic from Darton College in 2004. Jared subsequently finished his RN in 2007, his BSN in 2008, and his MSN in 2013 from UAB as an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner. Jed is employed as a Flight Nurse/Paramedic at Air Evac 140 in Milledgeville. He is also a full time EMT and Paramedic Instructor with Dodge County EMS / Rescue Training, Inc. He also serves on the Education Consortium subcommittees for Advanced Placement and Critical Care Task Force. In addition, he is an active member of Region 5 Trauma Advisory Education Cohort. Jed has also presented at GEMSA and served as a guest educator across the state. He lives in Dudley, Ga with his wife Kylie who is a Flight Nurse / EMT and their 4 children.

Nathaniel (Nate) Lincoln, Amerimed

Started my career in 2011 at MetroAtlanta Ambulance as a non emergency med van driver.  Obtained certification Aug 2012 and moved to Bls truck with metro.  Left metro in 2018 and moved to Valdosta to take division manager position with Amerimed.

Kevin Locke, Barrow County Fire Department

Hello everyone. My name is Kevin Locke, I am a Captain with Barrow County Fire Department and I am currently running for GEMSA Board Member. I began my career in public safety 30 years ago as a volunteer with Barrow County. Sense the beginning of my career I have always had a passion for the medical aspect of the profession. I always took advantage of every opportunity to learn, beginning with obtaining my EMT-Intermediate in 1993, at which time I transitioned to a full time member with Barrow County. In 1995 I chose to continue my education and obtained my Paramedic to better serve those around me. Once obtaining my paramedic I was fortunate enough to work alongside and learn from many great individuals throughout the State. In 2000 I was provided the opportunity to start a career with Children Healthcare if Atlanta as a Flight Paramedic. However, this did not stop my desire for education, I later became an instructor in many disciplines. Utilizing those qualifications I began instruction for Lanier Tech. and CHOA until 2019. In 2019 I took the opportunity to focus on my family and Barrow County. Since that time I have achieved the rank of Captain over EMS operations and Education. Provide this opportunity to be elected I will work as hard as I have in the past years to ensure I provide the best possible service to the members of our organization.

Dee McCoy (incumbent), Bound Tree Medical

Though I began my career as a nurse, I found my true calling to be in EMS.  I am deeply involved with GEMSA and EMS as a whole.  Having served on the Board for the past three years, I have been blessed to participate and collaborate with individuals and agencies across the state.  I currently serve as a Lab Manager for the Trauma Skills Labs, an Axioms of Leadership instructor, GEMSA Leadership Alumni, and I assist with multiple other classes and opportunities often.  I believe my passion for EMS and being active within the association will continue to be an asset for the Board and all GEMSA members. 

Sam Polk (incumbent), Henry County Fire Rescue

My name is Sam Polk and I have been in Fire and EMS for over 30 years.  I began as a volunteer firefighter and first responder in my home county and became a Paramedic in 1994.  I am currently a Lieutenant with Henry County Fire Department where I have worked for the last 15 years and am the Instructor/Coordinator for the department’s EMT/AMT recruit program.  In my career I have worked in several roles from Paramedic, Preceptor, Field Training Officer, Field Supervisor, Clinical Services Director, Clinical Education Manager, and Instructor.  I am a Georgia AEMT Instructor/Coordinator and an instructor with the Georgia Trauma Skills Lab program.  Also, I am an alumnus of the Georgia Leadership Program Class 6 and previously served as an at-large member on the board of the Leadership Alumni Association.  For the last 10 years I have represented Henry County on the Region 4 EMS Advisory Council and currently serves as the Council Chairman.  I previously served as the Region 4 Trauma Advisory Committee Chair and represented Region 4 on the Georgia Trauma Commission’s EMS Sub-Committee.  GEMSA has made many important strides in representing Georgia’s EMS providers and I am proud to have played even a small part in this.  However, there is more to do, and I look forward to helping build a great future for Georgia EMS.

John Sartain, St. Mary's HealthCare

I began my public safety career as a volunteer firefighter and first responder over 30 years ago.  I became an EMT in 1993 and Paramedic a few years later.  All of my career has been in Region 10 and Region 2, both in Northeast Georgia.  I have been fortunate enough to have wonderful mentors that encouraged me to serve as a Field Medic and in management positions.  While my roles changed over the years, I strived to remain close to the front lines – by teaching, meeting and listening to newer medics, and by continuing to run codes and troubleshoot real problems in the field – because in order to be an effective leader, it is important to remember where we’ve come from and the lessons learned.  I am currently serving as the EMS Liaison for a hospital system based out of Athens, where I develop, mend, and maintain relationships between EMS agencies and the hospitals in our region. I have also maintained numerous instructor certifications and teach on a regular basis to hospital staff, EMS agencies and to the general public.   I believe I can use these experiences to serve on the Board and will do my best to represent the people and Medics of not only my Region, but throughout Georgia.  GO Dawgs! 

Directors Division - Vice President Candidates

Allen Owens, Jr., Hope EMS

Allen has worked in Fire and EMS for 27 years.  He is currently:  Owner/Director Hope EMS; Coordinator for Farm Extrication class; and Program Coordinator for Hope EMS Training Academy.

Educators Division - Vice President Candidates

Ronnie Davis, Habersham County Emergency Services

My EMS career began in 1990 when I volunteered for Central Newton Station 10.  I obtained my EMT and Paramedic certification and worked for Newton General EMS until 1998, followed by Procare and National EMS.  Currently, I work as the EMS Training Lieutenant for Habersham County Emergency Services, where I am the Lead Instructor for the EMT and AEMT program as well as developing the annual EMS training program. I have worked diligently with GEMSA for the past several years assisting to Cadaver Labs and teaching NAEMT, extrication and defensive driving classes.    I graduated from the 8th Leadership Class in 2019.  I look forward to assisting in the further development of the GEMSA education program.

Becky Hill (incumbent), Retired educator

I have been on the board for 12 years. I see it as a mission to make EMS in Georgia better. I am a Nurse/Paramedic with 49+ years in EMS education. I want us to do more in education. Not just lectures and power point. I would love to continue helping EMS education to grow a change in 2023 and beyond. I would appreciate your vote for VP of your educators division.  Thanks.

Dee McCoy, Bound Tree Medical

Though I began my career as a nurse, I found my true calling to be in EMS.  I am deeply involved with GEMSA and EMS as a whole.  Having served on the Board for the past three years, I have been blessed to participate and collaborate with individuals and agencies across the state.  I currently serve as a Lab Manager for the Trauma Skills Labs, an Axioms of Leadership instructor, GEMSA Leadership Alumni, and I assist with multiple other classes and opportunities often.  I believe my passion for EMS and being active within the association will continue to be an asset for the Board and all GEMSA members. 

Medical Directors Division - Vice President Candidate

SPENCER MASIEWICZ (INCUMBENT), NORTHEAST GEORGIA HEALTH SYSTEM AS WELL AS HALL, BARROW, AND WHITE COUNTIES

Dr. Spencer Masiewicz is a practicing Emergency Physician in Georgia who is dual board-certified in both Emergency Medicine and Emergency Medical Services. He has professional experience in all facets of EMS and carries additional subspeciality certification as a Fellow of the Academy of Wilderness Medicine.  Currently he serves in the role of EMS Medical Director for Hall County, Barrow County, White County, Northeast Georgia Health System, and Region 2.  He advocates for EMS advancement in his daily practice, as well as at the state and regional level by being an active member of the EMS Medical Directors Advisory Council and the Regional EMS Advisory Council for both Region 2 and Region 10.  Dr. Masiewicz believes that for leaders to be effective in EMS they must utilize an approach that combines the application of evidence-based medicine with practical experience.  He is an avid believer in enhancing EMS abilities through education and encouraging career & professional advancement.

Providers Division - Vice President Candidate

James (Rafe) Waters (incumbent), Air Evac Lifeteam

Rafe is an experienced healthcare provider and leader. His EMS career began in 1999 as EMT-I, Paramedic, Level III EMS instructor, and EMS Director. In 2014 Rafe became a Flight Paramedic with Air Evac Lifeteam. In 2015, he was promoted to Program Director for Air Evac Lifeteam 91 Vidalia, GA. In 2020 he was promoted to Senior Program Director. During his tenure with Air Evac Lifeteam, the 91 Vidalia, GA the team has grown to become one of the most successful within Georgia and Air Evac. Rafe has actively participated in many GMR/FEMA deployments over the last several years, serving in various roles providing operational support.  Rafe is passionate about EMS professional growth and is very involved in EMS activities throughout Georgia. A graduate of the 2013 GEMSA Leadership Course, Rafe is a charter past Chairperson of the Georgia EMS Leadership Alumni, Chairperson for the Georgia EMS Preparedness Foundation, and Chairperson of the Southeastern Tech EMS advisory committee. He is a member of the Region 9 EMS Council and the RTAC. Most recently, Rafe helped develop the GEMSA Ambassador Program. This program helps inform EMS providers in each region about EMS classes, legislative topics and other GEMSA. Rafe holds an AS in Nursing from Albany State University, a BS in Organizational Leadership/Management from the University of West Georgia, and an MBA from Western Governor’s University.