Member Spotlight: Leadership, Advocacy, and Playing the Long Game with Christopher Way

Christopher Way, BA, Paramedic, is the 2025–2026 NAEMT President and Chief of Charleston County (SC) EMS.

With more than 30 years of experience across fire and EMS systems in urban, suburban, and rural environments, Chris has built a career grounded in service, leadership, and advocacy. From frontline provider to system chief, his journey reflects a deep commitment to strengthening EMS at every level. We asked Chris to share the mentors who shaped his path, the lessons he’s learned along the way, and what continues to drive his work in the profession.

Q&A with Christopher Way

Personal Reflection: Who was a mentor, partner, or instructor who made the biggest impact on you?


“Professionally, my biggest mentor has been previous NAEMT Board member Terry David. I’ve known him since I was first appointed to a formal EMS leadership position in 2001 and he has ever since been there for advice, tricks of the trade, challenging conversations and my biggest cheerleader. Personally, my uncle, who is a retired critical care pulmonologist. He was always an encourager, understood the medicine and the people part of what I was doing and has always been a great advocate.”

Career Reflection: If you could give a piece of advice to your younger self starting out in EMS, what would it be?


“Everything will work out! It may not be on your timeline or exactly how you expected but it will indeed work out!”

Advocacy: For everyday EMS providers, what’s the easiest way to get involved or make their voices heard?

“First and foremost, tell people you want to get/be involved. If no one knows you want to be involved, you won’t be! Then, start small. Volunteer for a committee (one you are passionate about), be willing to give your time, work your way up and set goals for your future. Play the long game!”

Leadership: What part of board work fills your cup the most?

“Advocacy is the thing I am most passionate about and what I initially got involved in NAEMT for. That said, being on the board has been so eye-opening to all of the different aspects of EMS and NAEMT. It has also opened the door to so many new relationships that have allowed me to learn so much more and be so much more well-rounded in EMS.”

Work-Life Balance: How do you balance your NAEMT responsibilities with work, family, and everything else?


“It can be challenging, but I have an incredibly supportive wife who understands the importance of what I am trying to do and appreciates the passion I have for EMS. I purposefully waited to run for President until my kids were in college and I did not feel I was missing regular things with them as a result of my NAEMT activities. Finally, Charleston County has been very supportive and appreciates the fact that we are involved on a national basis and benefit from that.”

Chris Way’s career reflects a steady commitment to leadership, advocacy, and long-term impact in the EMS profession.

From mentoring future leaders to shaping systems at the national level, he continues to emphasize the importance of showing up, staying engaged, and investing in the future of EMS. His advice to “play the long game” is a powerful reminder that meaningful progress in this profession takes time, dedication, and a willingness to step forward. We thank Chris for his leadership as NAEMT President and for his continued dedication to supporting providers and advancing EMS nationwide.