News

The Minnesota Ambulance Association seeks a strategic and experienced Executive Director to lead the organization into its next chapter. The estimated start date for this contracted position is January 2026.

Minnesota Ambulance Association

Executive Director

Position Description | Updated July 29, 2025

Interested candidates, please send a resume and cover letter to office@mnems.org by August 29.

Position Summary

The Minnesota Ambulance Association (MAA) board seeks a highly skilled leader to serve as the organization’s chief executive. This is a contracted position, not a direct hire role, and will report to the MAA Board of Directors. The Executive Director is responsible for the organization's consistent achievement of its mission and financial objectives. The successful Executive Director will effectively promote the MAA and its public policy initiatives while engaging EMS providers and other stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Manage the annual membership renewal process.
• Drive sustained membership growth through marketing and communications to ambulance services and EMS vendors.
• Facilitate annual Association strategic planning to set short- and long-term goals. In collaboration with board leaders, sustain progress toward these objectives.
• Manage contracts with the Association’s vendors and contractors, including but not limited to attorneys, accountants, insurance brokers, and lobbyists.
• Maintain official records and documents, and ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
• Maintain a working knowledge of significant developments and trends in federal and state emergency medical services (EMS) policy, reimbursement, patient care, licensure, and regulation. Support advocacy efforts driven by the board and lobbyists.
• Engage members, legislators, regulators, and other partners to advance advocacy for the EMS profession.
• Ensure compliance with MAA by-laws and governance.
• Communicate routinely and effectively with members and board leaders. Publicize the activities of the organization, its programs, and goals as appropriate.
• Grow and manage social media channels.
• Develop agendas and take minutes for all board, membership, and committee meetings. Manage the Association content calendar.
• Lead the annual budgeting process and develop monthly financials for board review.
• Identify, engage, and support outside CPA firm for an annual audit.
• Ensure that adequate funds are available to allow the MAA to carry out its work.
• Draft official correspondence of the organization and execute legal documents.
• Plan and execute MAA education and events at the direction of the board.
• Represent MAA members at local, state, regional, and national meetings and conventions as directed by the board.
• Collaborate with the board and committee chairs on industry educational events for MAA members.

Qualifications & Experience

• A minimum of ten years of professional experience.
• Excellent writing and communication skills.
• Extensive knowledge of healthcare regulations and public policy in Minnesota.
• Strong technology skills including Microsoft Office, social media platforms, and website content management systems.
• Experience in association management, event planning, and/or nonprofit management are a significant plus.
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.

Salary Range

Commensurate with experience and qualifications. The estimated range is $125,000–150,000.

About the Minnesota Ambulance Association

Welcome to the heart of Minnesota's Emergency Medical Services (EMS) community—the Minnesota Ambulance Association (MAA). We proudly stand as the unified voice for EMS across the state, bringing together over 85% of Minnesota's EMS response volume. Our diverse membership comprises both governmental and non-governmental organizations, including Medical Response Units and individual EMS providers.

Comprehensive resource for ERGs and rescue sheets available

As part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s ongoing commitment to supporting first responders with timely and accurate information to enhance public safety, emergency responders have quick and easy access to electric vehicle (EV) Emergency Response Guides (ERGs) and rescue sheets through a new resource available on the NHTSA website. Explore New Resource Key features include: Comprehensive Access: Emergency responders can quickly find and download ERGs and rescue sheets for EVs from all manufacturers. Historical EV Files: Historical emergency response files for EVs have been transferred from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) website to NHTSA’s new platform. Transition Away from NFPA Site: The NFPA will discontinue its ERG portal, and NHTSA’s new page will serve as the primary resource for these materials moving forward. For further information or assistance, please contact James Myers at james.myers@dot.gov.

To Minnesota Ambulance Association Members,

We are heartbroken by the devastating and senseless act of violence that took place last night, claiming the lives of Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, and injuring Senator John Hoffman and his wife, who remain in stable condition.

These elected leaders have been longtime advocates for stronger communities. We have had the honor of working alongside them in advancing public safety and supporting Minnesota’s EMS professionals. Their dedication to service was deeply felt — and will not be forgotten.

As members of the EMS community, we know all too well the pain and shock that violent incidents like this bring — not just to families and colleagues, but to entire communities. We stand in unwavering support of our fellow first responders and law enforcement officers as they investigate and respond to this tragedy.

We also ask our members — particularly those operating in the surrounding area — to remain alert, stay safe, and continue reporting any suspicious activity to authorities.

Please join us in keeping the families of Speaker Hortman and Senator Hoffman in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

Sincerely,

Minnesota Ambulance Association

MAA Members, The legislature adjourned the regular session on May 19th with kind of an uneventful close to the evening. They had only finished a few budget bills and 11 of the bigger ones including HHS Finance rolled over to what will be a “Special Session” that only the Governor can call. Over the last few weeks, we have been hanging around the Capitol providing technical support to legislators as they move to a position of leadership agreement. Just the other day the Health Finance bill which contain the EMS provisions released a signed and agreed to budget spread sheet. This spreadsheet only shows the funding and not the actual language. That language will be released closer to the Special Session. Below is what is in the Health Finance bill agreed to that we expect will be agreed to and passed during Special Session. Here is quote Blois Olson a reporter had this morning: SESSION: “According to multiple sources the two biggest sticking points for calling a special session are the tax bill and a bonding bill. The DFL Senate caucus met for two hours Sunday which revealed a clear divide among members including leaders, and Chairs. The tax bill, which was agreed to on Friday lacks support from tax chairs and the bonding bill will require some serious negotiations from the Senate. Multiple legislators, including DFLers expressed a need for more engagement and weight of support from the Governor. Ultimately, it would seem compromise on bills that have bipartisan support could garner enough votes to pass, however legislators from the edges of the right and left remain barriers. The soonest a special session would be is likely Friday”. Provisions in the Health Bill Spreadsheet: They funded $16 million a year for EMS Rural Sustainability available until 2029. Our bill to expand access of the EMR/EMT training to all ambulance services not just volunteer was included with an additional $400,000 for the next two years for a total of $800,000 The Ambulance Training Grants was funded at $2 million dollars and the money is available until 2029 The uncompensated care pool was funded for the next two years at $4,291,000 a year for two years for a total of $8,582,000 The rate increase was not funded. That was lost in the conversation around increasing the HMO surcharge and what’s happening at the Federal level. Also, they did eliminate the broker prohibition and went to a statewide broker for Non- Emergency Medical Transportation. This is an area we will need to monitor closely So, overall, with the legislative session ending with no budget deals and the pending Special Session the MAA agenda around workforce and funding continues to be supported at the legislature. My rough math shows that we secured close to $27,500,000 of funding the next two years of the budget. That’s a total of $62 million into EMS the last 3 years. I want to extend a special thanks to the MAA Board, Legslative Committee and most importantly Samantha and Mark who turn our updates and documents around quickly so the work can be done at the Capitol.  Also, Erik Simonson and the Coalition of Greater MN Cities has been an amazing partner in this work, and I look forward to continuing that relationship. We will have a more detailed update once the Special Session takes place and we see the final language. Sincerely,  Buck McAlpin, Lobbyist

In the final days of the legislative session, lawmakers must act to shore up EMS services — especially in rural areas.

by Michael Juntunen and Becca Huebsch05/09/2025

When you call 911, you expect help to arrive — fast. You expect trained professionals to show up with the equipment and expertise to save lives. But that expectation is at risk across Minnesota, especially in rural communities, because our emergency medical services (EMS) system is being pushed to the brink.

Between the two of us — one leading the Minnesota Ambulance Association and the other directing Perham Area EMS — we’ve both seen up close just how strained ambulance services are across the state. The time for action is now. As lawmakers finalize the state budget in the final days of the 2025 legislative session, they must prioritize sustainable EMS funding. Without it, lifesaving care will be at risk in more communities across Minnesota.

Read the full article on MN Post

FY25 Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) NOFO Now Open Applications are due Thursday, June 26, 2025

The Department of Transportation (USDOT) has released the FY25 Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for the Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grants. The estimated $900 million in SS4A funding will provide resources for regional, local and Tribal initiatives focused on preventing roadway deaths and serious injuries. Applications for Planning and Demonstration Grants and Implementation Grants are due Thursday, June 26, 2025, by 5:00 PM ET. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Office of EMS encourages EMS agencies and 911 centers to apply for funding independently or collaborate with local, regional, health, planning or transportation partners. Apply Now USDOT will host a series of webinars to review components of this year’s NOFO. Visit www.transportation.gov/grants/SS4A for the webinar schedule, additional information on how to apply and frequently asked questions.

Emergency Medical Services (EMS) professionals in Minnesota face unique challenges in their daily work, responding to crises that demand skill, compassion, and resilience. The safety and well-being of paramedics and EMTs are paramount. However, the profession continues to experience high rates of injury, burnout, and mental health struggles. As we work to support our frontline responders, we must address both immediate safety concerns and long-term resilience strategies while also honoring those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

Safety Challenges in EMS

Minnesota’s EMS workforce operates in environments where physical and psychological hazards are prevalent. According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), EMS workers experience an injury rate of 34.6 per 100 full-time workers, nearly three times the national average for all occupations (NIOSH, 2021). These injuries result from patient handling, vehicle accidents, and assaults, underscoring the need for ongoing safety measures, proper equipment, and workforce training.

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) has emphasized the need for expanded access to personal protective equipment (PPE), enhanced de-escalation training, and improved vehicle safety standards to protect paramedics on the job (MDH, 2023). Furthermore, legislation such as HF 1492, introduced in Minnesota, seeks to improve protections and resources for first responders, including PTSD support and critical incident debriefing programs (Minnesota Legislature, 2024).

Building Resilience in EMS Professionals

Building resilience in EMS requires both individual and organizational support. Recent studies published in the Journal of Emergency Medical Services (JEMS) suggest that structured peer support, wellness programs, and mental health resources significantly reduce burnout rates among paramedics (JEMS, 2022).

Additionally, organizations like the Minnesota Ambulance Association (MAA) and the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians (NAEMT) advocate for initiatives such as mandatory rest periods, comprehensive mental health services, and financial support for EMS personnel facing hardship (NAEMT, 2023).

Honoring Our Fallen: The MN State EMS LoDD Memorial Foundation

While we strive to improve safety and resilience, we must also recognize those who have given their lives in the line of duty. The Minnesota State EMS Line of Duty Death (LoDD) Memorial Foundation was established to ensure that the sacrifices of EMS professionals are never forgotten. Founded by Adam Harvey, a 20-year EMS veteran, the foundation is working to build a permanent memorial at the Minnesota State Capitol to honor fallen EMS personnel.

To date, the foundation has garnered support from major organizations, including Allina Health, the Minnesota Ambulance Association, the IAFF, and the Minnesota Nursing Association. The project, which has already raised over $10,000, continues to seek additional funding through grants and corporate sponsorships. Honoring our fallen not only pays tribute to their service but also reinforces the urgency of protecting current EMS professionals from preventable harm.

A Call to Action

Ensuring the safety, resilience, and well-being of Minnesota’s EMS professionals requires a collaborative effort from government agencies, healthcare organizations, and the communities they serve. We must continue advocating for legislation, funding, and policies that protect those who dedicate their lives to saving others. Supporting initiatives like the MN State EMS LoDD Memorial Foundation ensures that their sacrifices are never forgotten.

By investing in safety measures, mental health resources, and memorial efforts, we honor the past while strengthening the future of Minnesota’s EMS workforce. Together, we can ensure that our paramedics and EMTs receive the recognition, support, and protection they deserve.

For more information or to support the MN State EMS LoDD Memorial Foundation, visit www.mnemsfoundation.org or contact Adam Harvey at MNEMSFoundation@gmail.com. Mailing address: PO Box 141, Bock, MN 56313. Phone: 651-247-3755.

Author: Adam Harvey

References

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). (2021). Emergency medical services workers: Injuries, fatalities, and prevention. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/ems/

Minnesota Department of Health (MDH). (2023). EMS and public safety initiatives. Retrieved from https://www.health.state.mn.us/

Minnesota Legislature. (2024). HF 1492: First responder mental health and safety act. Retrieved from https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/

Journal of Emergency Medical Services (JEMS). (2022). Burnout prevention and peer support for EMS professionals. Retrieved from https://www.jems.com/

National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians (NAEMT). (2023). EMS mental health and safety initiatives. Retrieved from https://www.naemt.org/

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
17 February 2025
Contact: 
Minnesota Ambulance Association
office@mnems.org

Minnesota Ambulance Association Honors 2025 Minnesota Stars of Life

[St. Paul, MN] – The Minnesota Ambulance Association is proud to announce the 2025 Minnesota Stars of Life honorees, recognizing the exceptional Emergency Medical Services (EMS) professionals who have demonstrated unwavering commitment, leadership, and excellence in serving their communities.

The Minnesota Stars of Life Award is the state’s highest recognition for EMS professionals, honoring individuals who go above and beyond in delivering life-saving care, mentoring the next generation, and strengthening the EMS system. This year’s honorees represent paramedics, EMTs, dispatchers, and EMS leaders from across the state who have shown extraordinary dedication to patient care, innovation, and service.

2025 Minnesota Stars of Life Honorees:

Amendt, Paul | Paramedic/Team Lead, Essentia Health EMS | Sartell, MN

Berg, Kelly | Paramedic, Hennepin EMS | Minneapolis, MN

Caulkins, Chris | Training Captain, Allina Health EMS | Forest Lake, MN

Cook, Jane | EMT-B, Henning Ambulance Service | Henning, MN

Cox, Sam | Paramedic, Critical Care FTO, Allina Health EMS | Coon Rapids, MN

Gravermoen, Johnny | EMD, Hennepin EMS | Minneapolis, MN

Grodevant, Hillary | Paramedic, Mayo Clinic Ambulance | Mazeppa, MN

Husfeldt, Helen V. | EMT-B, Co-Director, Henning Ambulance | Henning, MN

Jacobson, Jamie | Operations Manager, Sanford-Thief River Falls | Thief River Falls, MN

Jensen, Stacy | Critical Care Paramedic, M Health Fairview EMS | Isanti, MN

Kirchner, Jennifer | Ambulance Director, Murry County Ambulance | Slayton, MN

Kratzke, Ryan | Paramedic, Hennepin EMS | Minneapolis, MN

Krueger, Tom | EMS Education and Emergency Management Coordinator, Astera Health EMS | Wadena, MN

Miron, Matt | Paramedic, Manager of Interfacility, Allina Health EMS | Blaine, MN

Myhra, Eric | EMT, North Memorial Ambulance | Brainerd, MN

Neumann, Todd | Paramedic, Sanford Ambulance | Pelican Rapids, MN

Panasuk, LeRoy | Emergency Medical Responder, Essentia Health EMS - Deer River | Grand Rapids, MN

Riggott, Tricia | Critical Care Paramedic, Mayo Clinic Ambulance | Wabasha, MN

Ruminsky, Alicia | EMD, Hennepin EMS | Minneapolis, MN

Sarnstrom, Erik | Paramedic Supervisor South Metro, Allina Health EMS | Bloomington, MN

Sather, Sue | EMT Lead, CCM Health EMS | Montevideo, MN

Schmidt, Tony | Paramedic/Field Training Officer, North Memorial Ambulance| Douglas County, MN

Schwartz, Spencer | Paramedic, Hennepin EMS | Minneapolis, MN

Serreyn, Richard | Paramedic, North Memorial Ambulance | Marshall, MN

Stellrecht, Sheryl | EMT, Cannon Falls Ambulance | Cannon Falls, MN

Strom, Steven | Emergency Medical Technician, Mayo Clinic Ambulance | Albert Lea, MN

VanGrinsven, Matt | Paramedic, Field Training Officer, North Memorial Ambulance | Park Rapids, MN

Zavertaniy, Sergey | Paramedic, Hennepin EMS | Minneapolis, MN

“These incredible professionals represent the heart of EMS in Minnesota,” said Michael Juntunen, President of the Minnesota Ambulance Association. “Every day, they bring their skills, compassion, and resilience to serve their communities. Whether responding to critical emergencies, mentoring future EMS providers, or advancing our profession, their dedication makes a profound impact. We are honored to recognize their service and celebrate their achievements.”

The honorees will be celebrated at the 2025 Minnesota Stars of Life Awards Ceremony, where family, colleagues, and state officials will gather to acknowledge their invaluable contributions.

The Minnesota Ambulance Association extends its deepest gratitude to all EMS professionals who dedicate their lives to protecting and caring for others. Congratulations to the 2025 Minnesota Stars of Life honorees!

For more information about the Minnesota Stars of Life or the Minnesota Ambulance Association, please visit www.mnems.org or email office@mnems.org. 

About the Minnesota Ambulance Association

The Minnesota Ambulance Association represents and supports EMS professionals and ambulance services across the state. The organization advocates for policies that strengthen emergency medical care, provides professional development opportunities, and promotes the essential role of EMS in public health and safety.

Dear MAA Members, 

As Minnesota prepares for a dynamic 2025 legislative session, several special elections and legal challenges are shaping the political landscape. With key races in Districts 40B and 60, along with potential contests in 54A and 47, the outcomes could significantly influence state leadership. The Minnesota Ambulance Association (MAA) is advancing a robust legislative agenda to strengthen EMS funding, training, and sustainability—be sure to continue reading for additional details.

We also encourage you to join us for the Rural EMS Roundtable in St. Paul on January 28 and to nominate a Star of Life for our Minnesota Stars of Life event on March 18, 2025. Together, let’s advocate for the future of EMS in Minnesota!

Buck McAlpin, Lobbyist 

****

Special Elections 2025:

As we all watched for legal challenges and chaos in the Federal election we seemed to have our own issues in MN this past November.

In District 40B, the Shoreview, North Oaks, Arden Hills the election was called due to the elected candidate being found to have not resided in the district and had rented an apartment he never stayed in.  That candidate resigned and the seat opened.  Five Democrats and one Republican have filed for the seat, that triggered a primary election to be held on January 14^th ahead of the general election on January 28^th.  That district is expected to stay DFL.

In Senate District 60, the special election was called due to the death of Senator Kari Dziedzic, the former majority leader of the MN Senate. 10 Democrats and three Republicans filed for that seat. Neither of the current House members filed for the seat. This special election will also have a primary on January 14^th with a Special election on January 28^th.

And keep in mind with those two special elections, there remain two more potential special elections.  In House District 54A, the Scott County race where 20 ballots were lost and the winning margin was, but 14 votes was challenged in court by the House Republicans.    The current winning candidate Brad Tabke wants the election certified so he can be allowed on the House floor when the session starts. This case is now in the hands of the judge who is expected to rule soon.  The other potential special election is in Senate District 47 (Woodbury) where Senator Nicole Mitchell appeared in court recently as a settlement conference began related to her burglary charge.  From these legal negotiations numerous things could happen in this one including Mitchell continuing her term, a voluntary resignation as part of a settlement or removal from office if she is convicted of a felony. 

With all this in mind as I write this pre-session update the legislature will start on January 14^th with a 33-33 tie in the Senate, and a 67-66 Republican majority in the House. Either way the legislature will begin on January 14^th as we await special elections and court rulings.

The MAA 2025 Legislative Agenda:

At the direction of the MAA Board and Legislative Committee we have drafted up a few pieces of legislation to start the 2025 legislative session.

1.        We drafted up a bill to increase Medicaid rates for all ambulance services. In talking with DHS and our bill author we have not decided on a percentage yet. That number will be considered as budget negotiations at the legislature progress this session.
2.        We drafted up a bill to expand access to the EMT training reimbursement program managed by the Office of EMS, which continues to have a balance every two years of non-encumbered funding. This bill would increase reimbursement for EMT initials and refresher courses, remove the word “volunteer” to open the pool to more ambulance services in rural MN. And, most importantly it adds our important First Responders who work on ambulance services to the reimbursement formula.
3.        Mark and I have also been working with the revisors office to draft up the continuation of the very successful Paramedic Scholarship program which is managed by the MN Office of Higher Education. That office has collaborated and worked with the MAA and the Office of EMS the last two years to market and get new paramedics in your rigs. We look forward to the opportunity to work on extending and expanding access to this for the members.
4.        Also, the MAA Legislative Committee has been working on a draft bill regarding a EMT apprenticeship program. We are awaiting some more technical feedback and should have that bill ready to be drafted this next week. Thanks to Mark Jones, Dylan Ferguson and Tom Fennel who have been working hard on this important workforce legislation.
5.        We also continue to work with the Greater Cities Coalition on some opportunities to secure sustainability funding for services with lower EMS volume and continued financial viability issues. Although $24 million was secured last session additional funding and a more uniformed all-inclusive program needs to be established regardless of your legal status as a private, non-profit, hospital based, Governmental or Tribal entity.

The New Office of EMS:

The new Office of EMS began on January 1, 2025, and the transition seems to have been Seamless as it continues to be led by Dylan Ferguson. I would like to extend a sincere thank you to Director Ferguson for attending numerous meetings around the State and MAA Board meeting to provide Transparency on the entire process. Also, a special thanks to the outgoing and prior EMSRB Board members.