Chris is a nationally registered paramedic (2005) with a background in 9-1-1 response, critical care transport, and EMS education. He began his public service career as a firefighter and later served in the U.S. Marine Corps, where he attained the rank of Sergeant. Chris holds an associate degree in Emergency Medical Sciences and completed both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Western Carolina University, focusing on EMS healthcare and management. He is currently pursuing a PhD in Epidemiology at The Ohio State University and serves as the Craig D. Manifold EMS Research Fellow at the National Registry of EMTs. His research centers on EMS workforce retention, clinician health and behaviors, and improving prehospital care through evidence-based policy and practice.