This session draws from firsthand leadership experience within a high-demand emergency service environment. Through real-world examples from both fire and EMS operations, Jessica will examine recruitment efforts, retention challenges, and the cultural and leadership decisions that directly impact whether members remain committed to an organization.

The presentation will emphasize retention as a leadership responsibility, highlighting strategies that proved effective, initiatives that fell short, and the adjustments made when outcomes did not meet expectations. Attendees will gain practical insight into how training, accountability, communication, and operational leadership in both career and volunteer agencies influence long-term team member engagement; particularly within EMS-focused environments.

This presentation will discuss the potential benefits and drawbacks of social media use by EMS agencies and EMS providers. It includes examples of best practices and social media guidelines for agencies and employees / volunteers, discussion of "suicide by social media", several case studies, and representing yourself and your agency both off-duty and in public.

We've all heard the axiom: "If you've seen one EMS system, you've seen one EMS system." Yet despite our differences, EMS agencies confront the same pressures: declining volunteerism, reimbursement models build for transport rather than readiness, rising call volumes, increasing regulatory demands, and growing clinical complexity. Many communities are burning the candle at both ends just to keep ambulances on the road.

In this session, Mike shares the story of Port Jefferson EMS and the innovation strategy that pivoted away from traditional recruitment to tap new streams of volunteerism. Learn how career leadership, strong partnerships, and a supporting executive board of community members built a thriving combination service where volunteers and career EMS providers succeed - together.

Enjoy a well-deserved break to refuel and recharge during Lunch on Your Own. This flexible time allows you to explore local dining options, connect with colleagues, and continue the conversation beyond the session room. We encourage you to use this opportunity to network—invite someone new to join you, share insights from the morning sessions, and exchange ideas that can strengthen your work and your professional connections. Some of the best collaborations start over lunch!

Struggling to attract and keep top talent in today's challenging EMS landscape? Join us as we outline the critical strategies for building and sustaining a resilient EMS workforce! This dynamic session goes beyond headlines, offering actionable insights into a radical transparency-first approach to recruitment. Discover how being profoundly honest with potential hires – about the gritty realities, the department culture, the demands, and the rewards – isn't just ethical, it's the most effective way to attract candidates who are truly the right fit and reduce costly early turnover. We'll then dive deep into the pillars of long-term employee retention, exploring how to foster an environment where your providers thrive. Learn about competitive compensation and benefits, professional development and clear career pathways, proactive wellness programs, and work-life balance strategies, and cultivating a positive, supportive work culture and strong leadership. Don't miss this essential deep dive into transforming your recruitment and retention strategies for a sustainable future in EMS!

Today’s EMS candidates form their first impression of your agency online, often before they ever speak to a recruiter. This session provides New York EMS agencies with a practical strategy for using social media to build awareness, strengthen community trust, and drive recruitment action. Participants will learn how to create fast-impact content, apply a simple weekly posting framework, and craft clear calls to action that move audiences from curiosity to commitment. The course also covers engagement techniques that turn comments and messages into meaningful recruitment conversations. Attendees leave with a repeatable system to convert online visibility into qualified EMS applicants.

This session explores how EMS organizations can shift from a survival mindset to a sustainability focused culture that supports long term success and workforce stability. Participants will examine key cultural transitions, including moving from “tough it out” mentalities to normalizing mental wellness, from reactive scheduling to strategic workforce planning, and from hierarchy driven structures to team centered leadership. A central focus will be on developing structured promotional training programs that clearly outline career pathways and prepare emerging leaders for future roles. The session will highlight practical approaches such as leadership ride alongs, transparent promotion criteria supported by formal training, and intentional recognition of staff milestones. Attendees will learn how investing in professional development and leadership preparation strengthens engagement, inspires long term commitment, and improves organizational performance and retention.

As the capstone session of the day, this dynamic panel brings together experienced EMS leaders and workforce innovators to explore practical, real world strategies for retaining today’s EMS professionals. Drawing from diverse backgrounds in leadership, operations, and recruitment, panelists will share what has worked in their own organizations to build strong, committed teams. Discussion will focus on culture, professional development, leadership support, and long term career pathways. Attendees will gain actionable ideas they can adapt to their own agencies. The session concludes with an interactive question and answer period.