On behalf of the Central Region, Arizona Emergency Medical Services, Inc (AEMS) is pleased to support the Arizona Bureau of EMS & Trauma System's 2025 EMCT of the Year Award contest. Each Region was charged with selecting a finalist to receive this award, which recognizes outstanding EMCTs across Arizona who have gone above and beyond to serve their communities.
In the Central Region, seven nominations were received. The finalist was selected based on merit by the AEMS Board of Governors and Functional Group Voting members.
We are what we repeatedly do.
Aristotle
Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.
2025 EMCT of the Year Award Winner
Louis D’Angelo
Surprise-Fire Medical Department
Captain Paramedic Louis D’Angelo is the model for what an Arizona Paramedic should be and embodies the Motto and Mission of the Surprise Fire-Medical Department. “Always There, Always Ready.”
Captain D’Angelo has been a member of the SFMD for 18 years, a paramedic with SFMD for 18 years, and a Captain for 5 years. Many of those years he’s tirelessly pulled double duty as a staff member in the Medical Services Division. In his current position as a Captain in the Emergency Medical Services Division, he and the staff are making great strides in the expansion of the SFMD training program to include a robust training calendar enabling all SFMD EMTs and Paramedics to get enough training in-house to maintain State and National Registry Certification. His expertise includes RSI, TBI, drowning, mass casualty trauma triage and treatment, as well as many other assessment, treatment and systems issues. He uses a case-based approach to ease the learning process of the trainees in each of his classes. He helped create a program called “First Fridays with Fire”, open to the public and instructing on CPR, Stop-The-Bleed, AED use, and nasal naloxone administration.
Captain D’Angelo and I have been instrumental in bringing a newly created EMT program to the Dysart High School District, and this year we are graduating our initial class of 25 EMTs. Hopefully, this will begin their careers in EMS and public service in the City of Surprise or elsewhere.
It is the field performance of Captain D’Angelo that has exceeded expectations in past years, but especially in 2024. On May 17, 2024, Captain Louis D’Angelo’s crew was the first EMS crew on the scene of a shooting call in our city. This call was very high stress as the shooter was barricaded in a home after shooting the victim, who was a 7-month-old baby. Captain D’Angelo did not hesitate to enter the hot zone to get the patient out of harm's way, fully knowing the risks involved with entering a hot zone. Captain D’Angelo’s ability to assess the scene, and get the patient to a safe zone, while managing a crew’s safety and tending to a critical patient is unmatched. Captain D’Angelo was very calm and collected despite the chaos that was going on during this scene. Due to his and his crew’s skills, this baby is alive today to continue their life to the best of their ability despite that dreadful day. This crew’s swift action and care undoubtedly assisted in saving this child’s life. Phoenix Children’s Hospital (PXH) has recognized Captain Paramedic D’Angelo and his crew as well as Banner Air for this call by honoring them for their acts of bravery on this dreadful day with a PCH Challenge Coin. Challenge coins have been used to symbolize one’s exemplary service. I cannot think of a better situation that can symbolize Louis D’Angelo’s exemplary service to our city, our citizens and visitors, as well as the City of Surprise Fire-Medical Department.
In short, because of his past and future service to our agency and the citizens and visitors to the State of Arizona, there can be no better candidate for EMCT of the Year than Captain Paramedic Louis D’Angelo.
Other Nominees
AEMS would also like to thank ALL the nominees for dedicating their lives to helping others. We are grateful for their service, compassion, and contributions made to EMS for the Central Arizona Region. They are cherished caregivers and an inspiration to us all.
Alex Bates
EMCT-B
Maricopa Ambulance
I had the distinct pleasure of meeting Alex in December of 2021, as the newly implemented Maricopa Chandler 911 system was on the brink of launching. At that time, Alex was employed with the previous service provider and had just officially signed on to transition to Maricopa. This pivotal switch took place at midnight, and Alex, embodying an admirable level of commitment and professionalism, was one of the dedicated EMTs who remained on duty to ensure that emergency services continued seamlessly for the community. Without hesitation, he changed shirts and immediately returned to his duties, providing uninterrupted coverage to those in need.
Since that significant night, Alex has consistently exhibited an unwavering dedication to his role, becoming a true beacon of professionalism and mentorship within the organization. He has always been willing to step in and assist wherever necessary, demonstrating a collaborative spirit that resonates deeply among his peers.
Alex has unofficially taken on the vital responsibility of training new EMTs who join the Maricopa/Chandler system or are filling in during their shifts. He approaches this role with enthusiasm and commitment, ensuring that all newcomers uphold the established standards of patient care and community service. Whenever a new EMT arrives, or a fellow team member unexpectedly shows up for their shift, Alex is always ready to lend a hand. He invests considerable time and effort in teaching not only the mechanical aspects of operating the ambulances but also emphasizes the importance of fostering strong relationships with our fire department partners. By doing so, he lays the groundwork for a positive and productive partnership both within the firehouse and during emergency responses on the streets.
Further reflecting his commitment to safety and excellence, Alex has completed over 1,500 patient transports, driving diligently to and from various scenes without a single accident or moving violation to his name. His careful approach has also ensured that there have been no instances or near misses during patient movements, a testament to his attention to detail and dedication to patient welfare.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Alex was awarded Employee of the Month in January of 2023. He continues to excel in his role as an EMT, earning the respect and admiration of his field supervisors, co-workers, and fire department partners alike. His peers hold him in high esteem, viewing him not only as an exemplary employee but also as a trusted mentor and a vital member of the emergency medical team.
Eliot Colsen
EMCT-B
Queen Valley Fire District
Eliot is one of our valued members of the Queen Valley Fire District family. He started out as one of our volunteers and quickly because one of the paid members of our district. He put himself through EMT school and then accepted a full-time position with us. Eliot provides coverage for the station along with several volunteers. Being a full-time member of the department, Eliot always comes in on days off to help run calls.
He is an extremely talented individual and also does the maintenance on our trucks. Eliot has had several stressful calls that he has handled amazingly. He is a truly leader and assists the volunteers on scene management.
In 2017, Eliot received the Firefighter of the Year award from the Queen Valley Fire District. Eliot is one of our most valued people with the district and we would like to thank you for his consideration.
Daniel Johnson
EMCT-P
Priority Ambulance
Daniel Johnson is a Paramedic for Priority Ambulance AZ. Daniel has been a paramedic for 15+ years and demonstrates massive clinical knowledge. Daniel has run several trauma calls in our area and countless with his previous employer in Ajo.
Daniel is now a step-up supervisor for our agency, and I have witnessed him many times pulling crews aside and educating them on proper safety as well as injury prevention. He goes above and beyond to utilize his massive amount of experience and knowledge to pass it onto others.
Dan truly cares about his patients and all those around him. He is constantly trying to better himself and his clinical knowledge so that he can provide the best and most exemplary care to his patients. When Daniel transports a patient, he does everything he can to not only give them the best clinical care but also provide a safe, comfortable, and positive environment for his patients.
Mary Mason
EMCT-P
Priority Ambulance
To the Selection Committee,
I am writing to wholeheartedly recommend Mary Mason for the EMCT of the Year Award. Mary is a Paramedic with our organization who has been an outstanding member of the EMS community for 18 years, demonstrating exceptional skill, dedication and compassion in every aspect of her role.
Mary's passion for EMS and commitment to providing the highest quality patient care is evident in her work every day. Her devotion to her patients is unparalleled—she consistently goes above and beyond to ensure they receive not only the best medical care but also the empathy and compassion they need in times of crisis. Mary has worked in both suburban and rural EMS environments, where she has excelled in each setting, adapting seamlessly to the unique challenges they present. Her ability to thrive in these diverse environments speaks volumes about her versatility, expertise, and dedication to the profession.
Beyond her technical skills, Mary’s impact on the workplace is immeasurable. She is a natural leader who uplifts her colleagues, fostering a positive, supportive atmosphere in the workplace. Her ability to motivate and inspire others has raised morale and improved the performance of her team. Mary doesn’t just strive to meet high standards—she sets them, consistently encouraging others to pursue excellence while supporting them along the way.
Mary consistently receives high praise from internal staff, patients, and external agencies alike for her professionalism, compassion, and positivity, as well as for the exceptional care she provides to her patients. She has gone above and beyond by earning instructor certifications through AHA and taking on the role of Field Training Officer for our company. In doing so, she has demonstrated a strong commitment to not only enhancing her own skills but also to mentoring and supporting both new and current employees in their professional development.
Mary’s genuine care for others extends beyond just her patients—she has an infectious positivity that makes her a cornerstone of our team. Her big heart, unwavering dedication, and tireless efforts to make a difference in both patient care and her colleagues' lives are qualities that make her truly deserving of this recognition.
In conclusion, Mary Mason embodies the spirit of what it means to be an exceptional EMCT. Her dedication, compassion, and leadership make her an invaluable asset to EMS, and I am honored to recommend her for this well-deserved award.
Daniel Rooney
EMCT-P
Maricopa Ambulance
Paramedic Daniel Rooney is the example that every EMS Provider should strive to be. His selfless dedication to our community is unmatched. He has consistently sought ways to strengthen his skill set so that he can continue to give back. Dan has been with Maricopa Ambulance since October of 2019, and he has continued his personal and professional growth and development ever since. Joining the organization as an EMT Dan was eager to learn and enjoyed working with Paramedics so that he could expand his knowledge base. Dan was selected for the Maricopa Ambulance Paramedic cohort program and became a Paramedic in 2022. Since then, he has embraced his call to leadership where he served as a Union Trustee in the IAFF Local i-60 for 2 years.
Mr. Rooney also completed the Maricopa Ambulance Field Training Officer Academy so that he could help train the next generation of EMS providers. Over the last 2 holiday seasons Dan completed what could arguably be his greatest accomplishment while with the organization. Dan had a vision of starting a fund raiser to be able to provide toys during Christmas time to the children under the care of Phoenix Children's hospital. Thanks to Dan's incredible efforts and his selfless sacrifice he was able to raise over $3,000.00 for the PCH Toyland fund in 2023.
This past holiday season Dan took it several steps further and organized a fund-raising Pickle ball tournament and was able to host 24 teams who competed for charity. Over $6,000.00 was raised in 2024. Part of Dan's vision was to not just provide a check to PCH but to put a more personalized touch on the sentiment. In collaboration with PCH he was able to obtain a list of the type of toys that they were in the greatest need of. He then organized a special shopping trip with those who helped support the cause and grown adult EMS providers were able to literally act like kids in a toy store. Nearly 20 overflowing shopping carts later Dan and his team of elves loaded the toys into two ambulances to make a very special delivery to the PCH toy land. This entire effort has inspired so many within our very small local EMS community to continue to get involved and be a part of this effort for years to come.
Dan has 4 school-aged children of his own and a wife at home who adore him and the hours he sacrificed with them to achieve this amazing contribution to the community is a testament to what all EMS providers should strive to embody. Whether Dan is chosen to receive this award or not, Please Join me in congratulating him on not only these achievements thus far but for also being the most recently promoted Maricopa Ambulance Paramedic Operations Supervisor. Congratulations Dan! We are very proud of you! Please keep up the good work!
Angie Ropicky
EMCT-P
Air Methods
I am nominating Angie Ropicky for the EMCT of the year award due to her passion for treating and transporting patients. Along with Angie has a drive to educate everyone that she meets. Her passion is in the realm of OB which she has given lectures to many EMS agencies around the state. She has even given lectures about OB to the BCEN here in Phoenix at their latest event.
Along with her OB lectures she has authored content pertaining to OB for Air Methods. Angie has also taken it upon herself to create and run the first Critical Care training program for paramedics that is approved through Granite Mountain. This program has already gathered the interest of out of state fire departments such as Salt Lake City. Her passion for knowledge does not end with just EMS. She is currently pursuing her BSN at the same time.