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PAC AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE PROGRAM CALL FOR NOMINATIONS 2024

The Paramedic Association of Canada has developed an awards program to recognize exceptional Canadian paramedics and paramedic supporters at the
national level. These awards presentation will be held during the Paramedics Across Canada Expo in Halifax on September 21st , 2024.

There are Five award categories:

• Paramedic of the Year
• Award of Excellence for Education and Training
• Award of Excellence for Innovation and Research
• Award of Excellence for Leadership and Advocacy
• Award of Excellence for Community Spirit

The award descriptions and criteria are attached. They are open to all paramedics or paramedic supporters regardless of their PAC affiliation as outlined for each award.

Please consider nominating exceptional paramedics and paramedic allies by completing a nomination package and submit it via email to awards@paramedic.ca.
Nominations will be accepted until March 15th, 2024

PAC Award Nomination form

Nomination Checklist

□ Nomination form completed and signed by the nominator.
□ ONE 500-word, paragraph style, description of why the nominee is worthy of consideration for the given award.
□ ONE (optional up to three) letter of support from persons other than the nominator supporting the nomination, not to exceed 2 pages each.
□ Up to 3 pages (OPTIONAL) of bullet point or text table that outlines the nominee’s paramedic career milestones. Education, publications, and awards
may be included to support the nomination. Some consideration is made for the nominee’s overall service record.

Each local PAC chapter will confidentially review all nominations. This may include contacting employers, regulators or other members of the paramedic community as determined by the local PAC Chapter representative. Information related to the nomination will be forwarded to the PAC awards committee for consideration.

Submissions are welcome in both official languages. Please note that submissions in French will be translated into English for review by the awards committee. Please submit your nominations to awards@paramedic.ca by March 15th, 2024

NOTE: Direct public nominations for this award are not accepted. The selection of recipients will be made from all nominations across all award categories, or from recommendations forwarded to the PAC Awards Committee directly from PAC Chapters.

The Paramedic of the Year award recognizes a field active, frontline paramedic who has made a recent, considerable contribution to the paramedic profession. More specifically;

• Exceptional service that highlights and raises the profile of paramedics or paramedicine on a regional, national or international level.
• Exceptional service to the paramedic profession in Canada. Such as, advancing paramedic profession, enhancing paramedic wellness, promoting
the legacy of Canadian paramedic history, or memory of past or fallen Canadian paramedics.
• Exceptional service of a paramedic during a major crisis or critical event of regional, national or international significance.

“Exceptional service” may include a wide range of activities, such as frontline incident response or coordination; public awareness and communication; advocacy and support to paramedic organizations; volunteer service to paramedic-related organizations, initiatives, or major projects; paramedic literature, film, or other media; and many other possibilities. It must be emphasized that the examples provided are intended for general guidance only, and are not meant to be limiting or prescriptive. The “exceptional service” can be made to any (or multiple) paramedic service organization, paramedic training institution, Canadian Forces unit, or any form of regional, national or international disaster, rescue or humanitarian organization, as long as the contribution represents both Canada and the paramedic
profession.

The award is intended to recognize a recent contribution that was made within the last 2 years, but could include a long-term or ongoing project that was completed or
reached a major milestone within the 2-year timeframe. While it is not a lifetime achievement award, the selection committee will consider supporting information Paramedic of the Year that could help to emphasis the significance of the individual’s achievements. Due to the significance of this award title, should be awarded to a paramedic who has had an overall exemplary service record.

• The recipient can be full-time, part-time, volunteer, student or retired.
• The recipient must be a “paramedic,” as defined through educational and professional requirements within each chapter. (ie PCP, EMT, etc)
• The recipient does not need to be an active member of a PAC chapter.
• Although not intended as a memorial award, at the discretion of the PAC National Awards committee, posthumous presentation may be considered

The Award of Excellence for Education and Training recognizes those who have made an outstanding contribution to training and education in the field of
paramedicine. For example;

• Identifying and successfully addressing a long-standing training or educational need or deficiency.
• Consistently exceeding standards for the delivery and/or development of paramedic training programs.
• Establishing a new or innovative program or delivery model to enhance the delivery of paramedic education.

The nomination must highlight the special or exceptional quality of the training or educational initiative which makes the nominee a candidate for a PAC Program Award of Excellence. It must be emphasized that the examples provided are intended for general guidance only, and are not meant to be limiting or prescriptive. The “outstanding contribution” can be made to any (or multiple) paramedic service organization, paramedic training institution, Canadian Forces unit, or any form of regional, national, or international organization that contributes to the advancement of paramedicine or out-of-hospital care and has a connection with Canada and Canadian paramedicine. The selection committee will consider other paramedic achievements and supporting information that could help to emphasis the significance of the individual’s contribution to paramedicine.

Due to the significance of this award title, it should be awarded to a paramedic educator who has had an overall exemplary service record.

• The recipient can be full-time, part-time, volunteer, or retired.
• The recipient must be involved in the education or training of “paramedics,” or other designated out-of-hospital medical care providers.
• The recipient does not need to be qualified paramedic.
• The recipient does not need to be an active member of a PAC chapter.
• This is an individual award and will not be awarded to a group.
• Posthumous nominations are not accepted for this award.

An Award of Excellence for Innovation and Research should recognize those who have made an outstanding contribution in the field of research, innovation or have
solved a problem or successfully leveraged an opportunity that has served to enhance the field of paramedicine, EMS systems, paramedic safety, or the expand the use of paramedics into non-traditional roles. “Research” may include the natural and applied sciences, social sciences, humanities, or a related discipline. “Innovation” may involve technology or equipment, but may also include innovative approaches or techniques. Examples could include:

• Achieving excellence in the development of a new or an improved technology that promises to enhance paramedic practice, EMS response, safety, or the delivery of care by paramedics.
• Significantly contributing to the body of knowledge directly related to the field of paramedicine or out-of-hospital medical care.
• Collaborating nationally or internationally on a research initiative that may provide significant guidance to EMS, policies, or practices.
• Developing a practical model to overcome organizational barriers, and improve interoperability within EMS systems or allied responders.
• Successfully applying new technologies, or existing technologies in an innovative manner, to enhance the delivery of paramedicine.
• Implementing new practices or processes that have created a positive impact on paramedicine in Canada.
• Building or developing new system that utilizes paramedics into a non- traditional paramedic roles.

The nomination must highlight the special or exceptional quality of the research or of the innovation, which makes the nominee a candidate for a PAC Award of Excellence. It must be emphasized that the examples provided are intended for general guidance only, and are not meant to be limiting or prescriptive. The “outstanding contribution” can be made to any (or multiple) paramedic service organization, paramedic training institution, Canadian Forces unit, or any form of regional, national, or international organization related paramedicine or out-of-hospital care and has a connection with Canada and Canadian paramedicine. The selection committee will consider other paramedic achievements and supporting Award of Excellence for Innovation and Research information that could help to emphasis the significance of the individual’s contribution to paramedicine. Due to the significance of this award title, should be awarded to a person who has had an overall exemplary service record.

• The recipient can be full-time, part-time, volunteer, or retired.
• The recipient themselves do not need to be qualiEied paramedics.
• The recipient does not need to be an active member of a PAC chapter.
• This is an individual award, and will not be awarded to a group.
• Posthumous nominations are not accepted for this award.

An Award for Leadership and Community Builder should recognize those who have distinguished themselves as leaders or outstanding advocates for the field of paramedicine; regionally, nationally, or internationally. For example, this may include, but may not necessarily be limited to:

• Exemplary management and the ability to motivate, resulting in significant enhancements within a paramedic focused unit, group, or organization.
• Displaying outstanding leadership during a major crisis or unexpected event.
• Advocating a change, or successfully implementing a new initiative or policy, which has resulted in the enhancement of paramedic practice or response.
• Inspiring or instilling a culture of excellence within the paramedic field, which has led to enhanced practice, safety and effectiveness.
• Achieving excellence in the development and delivery of health prevention programs, or similar initiatives aimed at promoting public safety and
reducing the need for EMS services.
• Champions a cause that advances the profile of the paramedic profession through partnerships with other allied responders and organizations.
• Leadership that advances the use of paramedics in non-traditional roles.

The nomination must highlight the special or exceptional quality of the leadership exercised by the individual, which makes the nominee a candidate for a PAC Award of Excellence. It must be emphasized that the examples provided are intended for general guidance only, and are not meant to be limiting or prescriptive. The “outstanding contribution” can be made to any (or multiple) paramedic service organization, paramedic training institution, Canadian Forces unit, or any form of regional, national, or international organization related paramedicine or out-of-hospital care and has a connection with Canada and Canadian paramedicine. The selection committee will consider other paramedic achievements and supporting
information that could help to emphasis the significance of the individual’s contribution to paramedicine. Due to the significance of this award title, should be awarded to a paramedic leader who has had an overall exemplary service record.

• The recipient can be full-time, part-time, volunteer, or retired. Award of Excellence for Leadership and Advocacy
• The recipient should be a “paramedic,” as defined through educational and professional designations within each chapter. (ie PCP, EMT, etc), although special exceptions may be considered at the discretion of the PAC National Awards Committee.
• The recipient does not need to be an active member of a PAC chapter.
• Although not intended as a group award, at the discretion of the PAC National Awards committee, this may be awarded to a small group or team.
• Although not intended as a memorial award, at the discretion of the PAC National Awards committee, posthumous nominations may be considered

An Award for Volunteerism and Community Spirit should recognize those who have distinguished themselves as selfless or outstanding advocates for the field of paramedicine; regionally, nationally, or internationally. For example, this may include, but may not necessarily be limited to:

• Is an exceptionally representative and advocate of the Paramedic profession within their community, province, country or internationally
• A paramedic who is a prolonged and/or exceptional volunteer in any role(s), with preference to role(s) that represent or promote paramedicine, or provide care for patients.
• Advocated and promoted the delivery of health prevention programs, or similar initiatives aimed at promoting public safety and reducing the need for EMS services.
• Inspiring or instilling a culture of community sprit within a paramedic service, station or community.
• An advocate for paramedic or first responder related issues or causes.
• The recipient’s primary motivation in this role is not financial, profit or wages.
• note: the recipient may be paid or compensated, this award is not restricted to volunteer roles only

The nomination must highlight the special or exceptional quality of the volunteerism or community spirit exercised by the individual, which makes the nominee a candidate for a PAC Award of Excellence. It must be emphasized that the examples provided are intended for general guidance only, and are not meant to be limiting or prescriptive. . The selection committee will consider other paramedic achievements and supporting information that could help to emphasis the significance of the individual’s contribution to paramedicine. Due to the significance of this award title,
should be awarded to a paramedic leader who has had an overall exemplary service record. PLEASE INCLUDE ALL PROFESSIONAL/PAID paramedic roles as part of the overall nomination.

• The recipient can be full-time, part-time, volunteer, or retired. Award of Excellence for Community Spirit
• The recipient should be a “paramedic,” as defined through educational and professional designations within each chapter. (ie PCP, EMT, etc), although special exceptions may be considered at the discretion of the PAC National Awards Committee.
• The recipient does not need to be an active member of a PAC chapter.
• This is an individual award and will not be awarded to a group.
• Although not intended as a memorial award, at the discretion of the PAC National Awards committee, posthumous nominations may be considered

The Paramedic Association of Canada is currently seeking sponsorship for multiple award categories. For more information on how you can sponsor a PAC Award of Excellence, please contact awards@paramedic.ca

PARAMEDIC ASSOCIATION OF CANADA PRESIDENT'S COMMENDATION AWARDS PROGRAM

The Paramedic Association of Canada (PAC), as part of its enhanced awards and recognition program, has developed a set of awards and uniform insignia, known collectively as the President’s Commendation Program.  The intention of the President’s Commendation Program is to provide an avenue for PAC to recognize deserving paramedics, and to create identifiable insignia associated with these awards to be worn by paramedics on their dress uniform or other formal occasions.

The insignia consists of 1/2” tall PAC logo of blue star-of-life overlapping the red maple leaf placed over a 1 1/4” wide and 1/3” tall white bar.  The differences between the awards is identified by the colour of the award bar; white for President’s Awards, silver for President’s Commendation, and gold for Commendation for Bravery.

Any questions about the PAC President’s Commendation program can be forwarded to awards@paramedic.ca

Presented to all recipients of the PAC National Awards Program.

The PAC President makes the final decision on all recipients of the PAC Awards Program.  As such, all recipients of a PAC National Paramedic Award are automatically presented with a PAC President’s Award Commendation as part of the following awards;

  • Paramedic of the Year
  • Award of Excellence for Education and Training
  • Award of Excellence for Innovation and Research
  • Award of Excellence for Leadership and Community Building

This award insignia is a compliment to the formal PAC award and will be presented during the award ceremony. Selection of this award will follow the selection process of the PAC Awards Program.

Nomination Process:

All Canadian paramedics are encouraged to nominate deserving peers for the annual PAC Awards. The nomination process and nomination window is available on the PAC website.

The PAC President’s Commendation specifically identifies and highlights individuals deserving of recognition by PAC. The awarding of this is at the discretion of the PAC President but is intended to recognize significant or sustained contribution to PAC or the paramedic profession in Canada on a national level.

The PAC President ultimately has sole discretion on who receives this award, however, all PAC Directors and elected Officers participate in identifying recipients.

The presentation of this award can be made by PAC Director or elected PAC Officer on behalf of the President can present the award.  It is accompanied with a letter signed by the PAC President outlining the specific reasons for commendation. 

Nomination Process:

All PAC members are encouraged to help identify potential recipients by contacting any PAC Director or elected PAC Officer to assist in the nomination process. PAC members with and endorsement from a local chapter director or officer submit a letter of support for the nominee (with optional fact sheet) to awards@paramedic.ca. The PAC Awards Committee reviews all information and if endorsed, forwards the information to the PAC President for final approval.  The nomination letter must contain enough information for the awards committee to be able to write a formal commendation letter on behalf of PAC and the President.

The President’s Commendation for Bravery is presented to paramedics who act in situations of personal risk. The minimum criteria for this commendation are based on the Governor General’s criteria for Medal of Bravery which states “…shall be awarded for acts of bravery in hazardous circumstances.”1 This award should recognize paramedics who, at a minimum, consciously choose to act in a setting of known personal hazard or risk to their safety.

The award is primarily intended for actions that occur during the performance of duties as a paramedic, however, specific off duty cases may be considered. A paramedic that is responding as part of any official first response agency are considered “on duty” regardless if that agency is a formal paramedic service (i.e. a paramedic responding as part of a SAR team or disaster assistance team, etc. is considered on duty.). The recipient must be a “paramedic,” as defined through educational and professional requirements within each chapter. (i.e. PCP, EMT, etc.). However, they do not need to be a member of PAC to be considered.  The actions can occur anywhere in the world; however, the event or paramedic needs to have an obvious direct association with Canada to qualify.

This award can be made posthumously if death occurs as a result of actions worthy of recognition.  It should be highlighted that not every line-of-duty death should be automatically considered for this award. 

It should also be noted that situations that would reasonably occur in the performance of regular duties, for which the paramedic has appropriate training and PPE, is not considered hazardous. (i.e. Tactical medic involved in active shooter event, or SAR medic involved in a rescue situation). However, should the hazard or circumstances progress beyond what would reasonably be anticipated, then the criteria for personal hazard or risk can be met.

The presentation of this award will be made by the PAC President, or any PAC Director or elected Officer on behalf of the President. It is accompanied with a letter, signed by the PAC President outlining the specific actions taken by the individual worthy of commendation for bravery. 

Nomination Process:

Any PAC member should identify a potential nominee to any PAC Director or elected PAC Officer and assist them in collecting supporting information. Forward all supporting information surrounding the nomination to awards@paramedic.ca.  The PAC Awards Committee reviews all information and vote on whether to endorse a recipient and forward to the PAC President for final approval. There is no urgent timeline for this approval process. If endorsed, the Awards Committee will write the letter outlining the acts worthy of recognition. The letter will describe the acts using the terms bravery, courage, or valour as defined by the Governor General.1 Endorsed recommendations will be forwarded to the PAC President for the final decision.

It should also be considered that recipients be formally nominated for Canadian Decorations of Bravery through the Canadian Honours System.

PARAMEDIC RECOGNITION RECIPIENTS

The Paramedic Association of Canada presented its annual national awards of excellence at the PACE Gala. The three recipients of the PAC Awards of Excellence received their awards. We congratulate all the recipients and recognize their outstanding contributions to the Paramedic profession, the patients and communities they serve: 

Zachary Cantor2023 PAC Award of Excellence in Education and Training 
 
Neil McDonald2023 PAC Award of Excellence for Innovation and Research 
 
MacKenzie Wardle2023 PAC Award of Excellence for Leadership and Community Building 
 

The Paramedic Association of Canada presented its annual national awards of excellence at the PACE Gala on September 20th at the beautiful Metropolitan Theater in Winnipeg, Manitoba. The four recipients of the PAC Awards of Excellence received their awards. We congratulate all the recipients and recognize their outstanding contributions to the Paramedic profession, the patients and communities they serve: 

Jason Trask – Saskatchewan2019 PAC Paramedic of the YearSponsored by Crestline Coach
Jason Trask is a volunteer and past president of the Saskatchewan College of Paramedics, where Jason was the driving force behind the recognition of a CCP designation and creation of their Member Wellness initiative. Jason currently oversees operations for Saskatoon emergency departments. His inter-professional collaboration and leadership was highlighted when he led the Emergency Department Incident Command Centre during the tragic Humboldt Broncos bus accident. Jason continues his career as a frontline paramedic working part time for STARS.
Janel Swain – Nova Scotia2019 PAC Award of Excellence in Education and TrainingSponsored by Public Safety Group
Janel Swain is a creative and effective clinician and educator. She has created a comprehensive elective education program, delivered in local communities, for over 1200 Nova Scotia paramedics. She provides exceptional leadership to her educator network and demonstrates her creativity using engaging activities to develop a true team atmosphere.
Matthew Leyenaar – Ontario2019 PAC Award of Excellence for Innovation and ResearchSponsored by Innovair Medical
Matthew Leyenaar Matthew Leyenaar is a community focused paramedic and researcher. He has substantially contributed to the development of the paramedic profession by researching and developing best practices, assessment tools, and strategic planning processes. His research focuses on community paramedicine, and his innovative approach to challenging existing thinking in paramedic service delivery is consistently focused on improving patient care.
Eric Glass – Manitoba2018 PAC Award of Excellence for Leadership and Community BuildingSponsored by MEDThree Insurance Group
Eric Glass has dedicated his professional career to advancing the paramedic profession. A Manitoba paramedic since 1992, Eric has been a pillar of professionalism, mentorship, and patient advocacy within the community. He has committed countless hours to many professional associations including Paramedic Association of Manitoba, Paramedic Association of Canada, and Paramedicine Across Canada Expo. Eric’s dedication to the self-regulation of paramedics in Manitoba, we integral to creation of the College of Paramedics of Manitoba. Eric has demonstrated exemplary professionalism throughout his distinguished career.

The Paramedic Association of Canada held its annual Awards Ceremony on April 28th at the Delta City Centre in Ottawa. The four recipients of the PAC Awards of Excellence we on hand to receive their awards. The recipients received both the award trophy and the PAC President’s Award Commendation, a pin which can be worn on their uniform in recognition of the award.  We congratulate all the recipients and recognize their outstanding contributions to the Paramedic profession, the patients and communities they serve: 

 

Roger Duncalfe – Saskatchewan2018 PAC Paramedic of the YearSponsored by Crestline Coach

Roger Duncalfe is an Advanced Care Paramedic working for the Saskatchewan Health Authority in Melville, Saskatchewan, a “small town” service where paramedics are integrated closely with the hospital. Both in an ambulance and at the hospital Roger is seen as a leader, educator and mentor within his community. Mr. Duncalfe also serves as a Corporal with the Canadian Forces 16 Field Ambulance. Roger balances working as a civilian paramedic with active military duty by taking most of his vacation time to participate in military training and exercises. Last year he deployed to Ukraine with ROTO III of OP UNIFER. Roger is the type of professional that embodies excellence in his practice as well as in life. He is well mannered, personable, and willing to take time to enrich the lives of others in any way he can. His approach to medicine and patient care serves as a role model for the many soldiers, paramedics, nurses, and physicians who know him.

The Paramedic of the Year award recognizes a field active, frontline paramedic who has made a recent, considerable contribution to the paramedic profession. More specifically;

Exceptional service that highlights and raises the profile of paramedics or paramedicine on a regional, national or international level.
Exceptional service to the paramedic profession in Canada. Such as, advancing paramedic profession, enhancing paramedic wellness, promoting the legacy of Canadian paramedic history, or memory of past or fallen Canadian paramedics.
Exceptional service of a paramedic during a major crisis or critical event of regional, national or international significance.

 

Kathy Reid-Soucy – Alberta2018 PAC Award of Excellence in Education and TrainingSponsored by Jones & Bartlett Learning

Kathy Reid-Soucy is the Chair of the Allied Health Programs at Northern Lakes College, Alberta where she manages and provides leadership to all levels of paramedic programs. Ms. Reid-Soucy has spent her entire career in rural Alberta. Her vision to expand paramedic education in rural Alberta is directly related to her own experiences. Recognizing the barriers that exist for rural paramedics to advance their careers, Kathy’s strives to provide access to paramedic education for all students without the need to move to an urban center to attend a paramedic program. Kathy is committed to ensure students in her programs are prepared for the progression towards a paramedic degree credentialing. Kathy is herself a life-long learner constantly advancing her own education recently completing a Masters of Nursing with an education focus.

The Award of Excellence for Education and Training recognizes those who have made an outstanding contribution to training and education in the field of paramedicine. For example;

Identifying and successfully addressing a long-standing training or educational need or deficiency.
Consistently exceeding standards for the delivery and/or development of paramedic training programs.
Establishing a new or innovative program or delivery model to enhance the delivery of paramedic education.

 

Olivier Roussin – Quebec2018 PAC Award of Excellence for Innovation and ResearchSponsored by Paramedic Association of Canada

Olivier Roussin has been a paramedic leader since 1967. Mr. Roussin began building his reputation with Ambulance Joliette and is currently with Ambulance St Gabriel. Mr. Roussin has a long history of consistently implementing innovative solutions to provide patient care and improve paramedic safety. He is well known as the leader of a paramedic service company offering prehospital services going beyond norms and standards established in the industry. One innovation that Ambulance St Gabriel is proud to have developed is one of the first dedicated bariatric ambulance units, long before bariatric units were common. Mr. Roussin’s consistent early adoption of innovative practices makes him stand out as a leader in the field of paramedicine.

The Award of Excellence for Innovation and Research recognizes those who have made an outstanding contribution in the field of research, innovation or have solved a problem or successfully leveraged an opportunity that has served to enhance the field of paramedicine, EMS systems, paramedic safety, or to expand the use of paramedics into non-traditional roles. “Research” may include the natural and applied sciences, social sciences, humanities, or a related discipline. “Innovation” may involve technology or equipment, but may also include innovative approaches or techniques.

 

Alan Batt – Ontario2018 PAC Award of Excellence for Leadership and Community BuildingSponsored by MEDThree Insurance Group

Alan Batt is an internationally recognized paramedic leader, educator and researcher whose career spans nine countries on four continents. Alan is actively involved in the education of paramedics of all clinical levels, in both vocational and higher education settings. Alan’s research has produced award-winning clinical and educational studies and he has published and presented these findings internationally. Alan has an extensive resume, his current highlights include Paramedic Professor at Fanshawe College, Adjunct Associate Professor at QC University and Vice President of the Irish College of Paramedics. Alan in involved with several journals including Editor of the Irish Journal of Paramedicine and a member of the editorial board of Canadian Paramedicine. Mr. Batt’s career has built paramedic connections around the world, while championing education and research to advance the field of paramedicine. Alan is currently a PhD candidate at Monash University.

The Award for Leadership and Community Building recognizes those who have distinguished themselves as leaders or outstanding advocates for the field of paramedicine; regionally, nationally, or internationally. For example, this may include, but may not necessarily be limited to:

Exemplary management and the ability to motivate, resulting in significant enhancements within a paramedic focused unit, group, or organization.
Displaying outstanding leadership during a major crisis or unexpected event.
Advocating a change, or successfully implementing a new initiative or policy, which has resulted in the enhancement of paramedic practice or response.
Inspiring or instilling a culture of excellence within the paramedic field, which has led to enhanced practice, safety and effectiveness.
Achieving excellence in the development and delivery of health prevention programs, or similar initiatives aimed at promoting public safety and reducing the need for EMS services.
Champions a cause that advances the profile of the paramedic profession through partnerships with other allied responders and organizations.
Leadership that advances the use of paramedics in non-traditional roles.

The Paramedic Association of Canada is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2017 Paramedic Association of Canada Awards of Excellence. The awards were presented during the Paramedics Across Canada Expo 2017 conference in Quebec City, Quebec on August 18, 2017. We congratulate the following recipients and recognize their outstanding contributions to the Paramedic profession, the patients and communities they serve:  
Kelly Williams -Prince Edward Island 2017 PAC Paramedic of the Year Sponsored by Kid Co
Kelly Williams will be celebrating her 21st year in paramedicine this year. She was one of the first female paramedics in PEI, and started at a time when women were not allowed to drive the ambulance. While she may have “paved the way” as a role model for future female paramedics, her competence, skill, compassion and dedication to the profession serve as a role model for all. Kelly is a lab facilitator at Holland College with the Paramedicine Program and conducts educational in-services for Island EMS. Both duties are done by Kelly with learning and respect for her fellow Paramedics and paramedic students in mind. She was one of the first trained to work in the Collaborative Emergency Centre (CEC) model at Western Hospital, and now trains Advanced Care Paramedics who want to broaden their knowledge base and work in a different clinical setting. Kelly is also a firefighter, and instructor with the Prince Edward Island Fire Fighters Association (PEIFFA). Kelly is very well known throughout her community as a Paramedic, Firefighter, town councillor and is a very well respected member of the Prince Edward Island Paramedic Association. Her peers know Kelly’s coffee pot is always on and her door is always open for anyone who needs an ear to listen, always there to support her friends and peers in good times and bad. To her students, Kelly is always a welcome site. The Paramedic of the Year award recognizes a field active, frontline paramedic who has made a recent, considerable contribution to the paramedic profession. More specifically; Exceptional service that highlights and raises the profile of paramedics or paramedicine on a regional, national or international level. Exceptional service to the paramedic profession in Canada. Such as, advancing paramedic profession, enhancing paramedic wellness, promoting the legacy of Canadian paramedic history, or memory of past or fallen Canadian paramedics. Exceptional service of a paramedic during a major crisis or critical event of regional, national or international significance.
 
Steven Mills – British Columbia 2017 PAC Award of Excellence for Education and Training Sponsored by Kid Co
Steven Mills is currently the Advanced Care Paramedic program manager for the Justice Institute of BC. Steven was a practicing paramedic with the BC ambulance Service for 16 years, and has received a bachelor and two Master’s degrees. Steven joined JIBC’s Paramedic Academy as faculty in 2006 and has held positions as Regional Training Coordinator, Primary Care Paramedic Program Manager and Practice Education Manager. Through these roles, Steven led a successful program redesign, aligning the PCP Program with national standards. Through his participation in larger education projects, such as working with the Department of National Defense, Search and Rescue Technician Medical Training program, along with clients in Hong Kong and Singapore, he has strengthened the Canadian Paramedics profile nationally and internationally, while building key relationships for education and expanded scopes of practice for future practitioners. Steven’s current role has seen the ACP program undergo significant changes and will continue to do so through the implementation of the new National Occupational Competencies and progress towards a Paramedic degree program. The Award of Excellence for Education and Training recognizes those who have made an outstanding contribution to training and education in the field of paramedicine. For example; Identifying and successfully addressing a long-standing training or educational need or deficiency. Consistently exceeding standards for the delivery and/or development of paramedic training programs. Establishing a new or innovative program or delivery model to enhance the delivery of paramedic education.
 
Dr. Aaron Sibley – Prince Edward Island 2017 PAC Award of Excellence for Innovation and Research Sponsored by Med Three Insurance
Dr. Aaron Sibley is an emergency physician at Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Prince Edward Island who is recognized for his contribution to medical education, disaster medicine and evidence-based practice in prehospital medicine. He is a Clinical Assistant Professor of Emergency Medicine at Dalhousie University and Associate Medical Director of Paramedic Programs at both Holland College and the University of PEI and is an Emergency Medical Specialist with the Canadian Forces. In collaboration with the Dalhousie University Department of Emergency Medicine, Dr. Sibley established the PEI Emergency Medicine Research Group (PEIEMRG). Its members include physicians, nurses and paramedics, with interests in prehospital care, disaster medicine, and medical education. Dr. Sibley has published many research papers on prehospital care topics in journals such as the Canadian Journal of Emergency Medicine, Journal of Emergency Medical Service, and Air Medical Journal. Dr. Sibley volunteers his time to educate paramedics on research during the annual Paramedic Association of PEI Paramedic Symposium. The Award of Excellence for Innovation and Research recognizes those who have made an outstanding contribution in the field of research, innovation or have solved a problem or successfully leveraged an opportunity that has served to enhance the field of paramedicine, EMS systems, paramedic safety, or to expand the use of paramedics into non-traditional roles. “Research” may include the natural and applied sciences, social sciences, humanities, or a related discipline. “Innovation” may involve technology or equipment, but may also include innovative approaches or techniques
 
Clarke McGuire – British Columbia 2017 PAC Award of Excellence for Leadership and Community Builder Sponsored by Paramedic Association of Canada
Clarke McGuire is a retired Advanced Life Support Paramedic with the British Columbia Ambulance Service. Throughout his 39 year career and continuing into his retirement, Clarke’s drive has improved the profile of Canadian paramedics at home and on the world stage. From simple projects like a locally renowned Christmas light display and poppy drives, to having the building code changed to require elevators that fit stretchers and writing provincial MCI plans, Clarke has consistently improved the profile of paramedics in his home community. Clarke has participated in over a dozen paramedic competitions in Australia, Canada and most commonly the Rallye Rejvis in the Czech Republic, where he is heavily involved in planning, writing scenarios, and as an international judge. As the manager for Team Canada, Clarke has taken teams from both British Columbia and Ontario to competitions and has consistently had teams stand on the podium demonstrating to all that Canadian paramedics compete on the world stage. Clarke has received many accolades and awards, including the EMS Exemplary Service Medal and a Commendation of Bravery from the RCMP. The Award for Leadership and Community Builder recognizes those who have distinguished themselves as leaders or outstanding advocates for the field of paramedicine; regionally, nationally, or internationally. For example, this may include, but may not necessarily be limited to: Exemplary management and the ability to motivate, resulting in significant enhancements within a paramedic focused unit, group, or organization. Displaying outstanding leadership during a major crisis or unexpected event. Advocating a change, or successfully implementing a new initiative or policy, which has resulted in the enhancement of paramedic practice or response. Inspiring or instilling a culture of excellence within the paramedic field, which has led to enhanced practice, safety and effectiveness. Achieving excellence in the development and delivery of health prevention programs, or similar initiatives aimed at promoting public safety and reducing the need for EMS services. Champions a cause that advances the profile of the paramedic profession through partnerships with other allied responders and organizations. Leadership that advances the use of paramedics in non-traditional roles.

PRESIDENTS COMMENDATION RECIPIENTS

The PAC President’s Commendation specifically identifies and highlights individuals deserving of recognition by PAC. The awarding of this is at the discretion of the PAC President but is intended to recognize significant or sustained contribution to PAC or the paramedic profession in Canada on a national level.  
Dwayne Forsman Manitoba
Cam Ritzer Manitoba
Tim Stairs New Brunswick
Nic D’Ulisse Quebec
Diane Verreault Quebec
The PAC President’s Commendation specifically identifies and highlights individuals deserving of recognition by PAC. The awarding of this is at the discretion of the PAC President but is intended to recognize significant or sustained contribution to PAC or the paramedic profession in Canada on a national level.  
Dave Dienes British Columbia
Grant Ross British Columbia
Jodi Possia Manitoba
Phil Comeau New Brunswick
Pierre Poirier Ontario