Renowned EMS Leader Ken Bouvier to Keynote Northeast Tennessee EMS and Rescue Conference

Photo bycourtesy of Ken Bouvier/EMS World

JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. — The Northeast Tennessee Emergency Medical and Rescue Conference, a pivotal event for emergency medical services (EMS) professionals, will be held in Johnson City on September 5-6, 2024. The conference has been educating and training EMS and rescue personnel for over 27 years. It will occur at the Holiday Inn Hotel and Conference Center, drawing attendees from Tennessee and neighboring states like Virginia, North Carolina, and Kentucky.

Keynote Speaker: Ken Bouvier

This year’s keynote speaker is Ken Bouvier, a Fire Chief-Paramedic and a nationally and internationally recognized figure in EMS. Chief Bouvier has dedicated nearly five decades to serving the New Orleans area, where he has worked as a firefighter, EMT/paramedic, Deputy Chief of EMS, and Fire Chief. Bouvier gained national prominence through his appearances on the A&E television show Nightwatch, which highlighted the work of New Orleans EMS.

Bouvier is celebrated for his leadership during significant events in New Orleans, including Mardi Gras, multiple Super Bowls, and significant hurricanes, where he managed EMS operations. His contributions to the field have earned him numerous awards, including the 1989 NAEMT EMT of the Year, the 2008 Rocco Morando Lifetime Achievement Award, and the 2019 Louisiana EMS Lifetime Achievement Award.

In addition to his role as Chief of the Westwego Fire Department, Bouvier has served as the President of the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians (NAEMT) and is a life member of the Westwego Fire Department, Louisiana Firemen’s Association and NAEMT. He is also an active member of the Louisiana Fire Chiefs Association and the International Fire Chiefs Association.

Bouvier’s extensive educational background in Fire/EMS, his written contributions to 14 EMS textbooks, and his service on the EMS World Editorial Advisory Board since 1998 underscore his expertise and influence in the field.

Conference Highlights In addition to Bouvier’s keynote address, the conference will feature presentations from:

• Tracy Banta, a Critical Care Paramedic serving with the Tennessee Army National Guard and joint base McGhee-Tyson, will share insights on military medevac operations.
• Specialists from REAC/TS (Radiation Emergency Assistance Center/Training Site) in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, will provide critical training on radiation emergency management.

The conference will begin with pre-conference sessions on September 4, focusing on pediatric emergency care and advanced instructional strategies for EMS Instructor/Coordinators.

Professional Development and Networking The event offers EMS professionals the chance to enhance their skills through hands-on workshops and educational sessions, covering various topics from trauma care to the latest EMS technologies. Attendees can earn continuing education units (CEUs) necessary for maintaining their certifications and staying current with industry standards.

The conference also serves as a vital networking platform, bringing together EMS personnel across the region to exchange ideas, experiences, and best practices.

Economic and Community Impact The Northeast Tennessee Emergency Medical and Rescue Conference fosters professional development. It contributes to the local economy by drawing visitors to Johnson City’s hotels, restaurants, and other businesses.

For more information about the conference, including registration and the complete schedule of events, please visit wcjcems.org/conference.

About Washington County-Johnson City EMS

Washington County-Johnson City EMS, the host of this conference, is a leader in providing high-quality emergency medical services. Their commitment to education and innovation in EMS is exemplified by this annual event, which has become a staple in the region's professional development of EMS and rescue personnel.